Juventus are reportedly hoping to win the race for Ajax defender Matthijs de Ligt during the summer.

A bidding war is expected to take place for the Netherlands international, with Manchester City and Barcelona having previously been linked with the 19-year-old.

However, according to Tuttosport, Juventus are ready to prioritise the signing of the centre-back as they search for a long-term replacement for Giorgio Chiellini.

Defending champions Juventus continue to dominate in Serie A, but it appears that Massimiliano Allegri wants to further strengthen his team in a bid to improve their chances in the Champions League.

De Ligt - who could cost in the region of £60m - has two-and-a-half years remaining on his contract, leaving Ajax in a position where they may be willing to sell in the summer.

The youngster has already made 76 appearances in the first team at the Dutch giants.