The Reds now have a very high chance of bringing the Dutch defender to the Premier League.

English Premier League outfit Manchester United is 'very close' to signing Ajax's Matthijs de Ligt, new reports in Spain have indicated. The Red Devils look set to pip Barcelona to the signature of the Dutchman despite recent speculations claiming that Camp Nou is the defender's probable destination.

De Ligt seems certain to leave Ajax following an impressive spell in the Eredivisie as well as the Champions League this season. As one of the hottest prospects this summer, the 19-year-old is on the radar of a host of top European clubs including both Barca and Manchester United.

For sometime now, the Catalans have been labeled as frontrunners to secure the service of the Ajax skipper. However, that has seemingly changed with reports that emerged on Saturday indicating that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side has jumped in front of the queue of suitors.

According to Catalan radio station RAC1, the Red Devils have tabled a staggering offer to secure the service of De Ligt. The 19-year-old center back and his entourage, led by his agent Mino Raiola, are said to be ready for a sit down.

"Manchester United has made an irreproachable proposal to the Dutch Central," RAC1's official account tweeted.

"Right now, the player is very close to the Reds."

Meanwhile, Barcelona is still in the frame and the Catalans are looking to sort out their wage budget before making another approach for De Ligt. However, Ernesto Valverde's side is reportedly having a hard time convincing to the likes of Ivan Rakitic and Samuel Umtiti to leave the club in order to pave the way for new arrivals.