Real Madrid to rival Chelsea for Matthijs de Ligt?

Real Madrid are reportedly keen on signing Juventus centre-back Matthijs de Ligt in 2022.

Los Blancos allowed Sergio Ramos to leave the club on a free transfer over the summer, while Raphael Varane moved to Manchester United, with the Frenchman seeking a new challenge.

David Alaba made the move to the Bernabeu on a free transfer, but Carlo Ancelotti's side are short of experienced options in the middle of their defence.

According to Calciomercato, Los Blancos are keen to strengthen at the back and have identified De Ligt as the ideal signing during next summer's transfer window.

The 22-year-old has made 77 appearances for Juventus since arriving from Ajax and still has three years left to run on his contract, placing the Old Lady in a strong position when it comes to any potential negotiations.

Chelsea are also allegedly weighing up a move for the Netherlands international, as the Blues face being priced out of a swoop for leading centre-back target Jules Kounde from Sevilla.