Premier League clubs are refusing to give Barcelona a free run at Ajax defender Matthijs de Ligt.

De Ligt is in talks with Barca about a summer move to Spain, says El Mundo Deportivo.

However, the Catalans face competition from England, where Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United have all opened talks with Ajax about a fee for the youngster.

And in the English trio's favour is De Ligt's hesitation about moving to Barca. The defender has concerns about his playing opportunities with the Blaugrana.

Barca, however, are prepared to secure an option on De Ligt if an immediate deal cannot be done.