Ajax star tells friends he wants Erik ten Hag reunion as Manchester United make contact over £48 million deal
According to reports, Mohammed Kudus, a talented player for Ajax, has expressed his desire to reunite with Erik ten Hag, his former coach, amidst rumors linking him with a transfer to Manchester United.
Kudus, who is only 22 years old, has demonstrated his skills as an offensive player in the current 2022-23 season, scoring 16 goals and providing three assists in 32 games across all competitions.
Despite playing in a withdrawn forward position, he has drawn attention for his impressive abilities as a left-footed player with great technical skills, flair, and shooting.
At the 2022 FIFA World Cup, he scored two goals in three group-stage matches, attracting interest from top clubs such as Liverpool, Borussia Dortmund, and Manchester United.
Football Insider reports that Kudus has expressed to his friends that he is interested in reuniting with Ten Hag at Manchester United.
The club has reportedly reached out to Kudus’ representatives to explore the possibility of a permanent transfer for a fee of approximately £48 million.
Although the Ghanaian forward has a contract with Ajax until 2025, he was almost signed by Everton last summer because of his desire to play in the Premier League.
Ten Hag is said to have a high opinion of Kudus’ versatility as a forward player, which has attracted the coach’s attention.
Manchester United is expected to overhaul their offensive line ahead of the 2023-24 season, with Weghorst returning to Burnley, Martial’s injury issues, and Sancho’s struggle to establish himself at Old Trafford.
According to Ziggo Sport, Ajax legend Marco van Basten stated that in his opinion, Mohammed Kudus is more self-assured when handling the ball than Antony.
“I find Mohammed Kudus a much better player than Antony. Antony has his skills, but he is confused with the things he is trying to do. Kudus has much better technique and he knows what he is doing. Antony may be faster, but Kudus is smarter and more technical.”
Van Basten also had words of admiration for Kudus, saying,
“Kudus is much more of a footballer, you can place him anywhere on the pitch, an all-rounder for the team. In fact, I like him much better than Antony. He’s more fun to watch on the pitch.”
Antony, who joined Manchester United from Ajax for £86 million last summer, has scored just six goals in 26 appearances this campaign.
Antony, who was signed by Manchester United from Ajax for a reported fee of £86 million last summer, has only managed to score six goals in 26 appearances this season.
Ajax star tells friends he wants Erik ten Hag reunion as Manchester United make contact over £48 million deal
