5 of the best centre-backs in Europe this season

#4 Matthijs De Ligt (Ajax AFC)

Matthijs De

Ligt

has been imperious for Ajax and Holland

Just about every big European clubs have been linked to the brilliant Dutchman. Judging by his displays this season, it is not hard to see why. His upward trajectory has been as rapid as it has been brilliant to watch. Despite his young age (he is still just 19), he has emerged as a leader for both club and country.

An almost permanent fixture at the back for Ajax, he has been one of the main reasons why the Amsterdam giants have kept step with arch-rivals, PSV for this season's Eredivisie title.

His passing out from the back has been there for all to see. A very confident player, De Ligt has acted as the initiator of attacking moves sometimes. This is despite having more experienced heads like Daly Blind and Dusan Tadic in the team.

While his passing has been very good, his defensive work has been just as excellent. Using his pace to great effect, he has improved on his marking and tackling and anticipates danger better than ever.

He has not been awed by the quality of attackers he has had to face this season; Robert Lewandowski, Kylian Mbappe amongst others. De Ligt has more than held his own

FC Barcelona has long held an interest in him. Same as Spurs, Real Madrid and even Manchester United and Juventus have been linked to Europe's Golden Boy.