Pranav Nair
Manchester United target Ryan Gravenberch set to stay at Ajax Amsterdam for another season
Manchester United are one of the clubs keen on Ajax Amsterdam wonderkid Ryan Gravenberch.
Nicknamed the ‘new Pogba’, the 18-year-old was considered to be a potential replacement for United superstar Paul Pogba should he leave in the summer. Interestingly, Gravenberch is also represented by the Frenchman’s agent – Mino Raiola.
The youngster is enjoying his breakout season in the Dutch top-flight and has managed 3 goals and 5 assists in 29 Eredivisie appearances so far. This has also seen him make his bow for the Dutch national team.(h/t Transfermarkt)
His performances have not gone unnoticed with both Chelsea and Liverpool also keeping tabs on his situation. Speaking to Ajax Showtime (h/t The Metro), Gravenberch has been told by his father to stay put at Ajax for another season.
“He has to take that last step at Ajax. He just has to and he hasn’t done that yet.”
The player’s father believes that his son would be well served to develop himself into a key player at Ajax before seeking greener pastures elsewhere.
“I want him to fully mature at Ajax, so as far as I’m concerned he will just stay at Ajax.”
One step at a time..
“I really think he should take a step at Ajax first. He has to climb in the hierarchy and stand up more for himself within the squad.”
Gravenberch Senior agrees that his son has done well this campaign and has urged him to do better next time around. While a breakout season is well and good, it matters little unless he can keep improving.
The player too appears to have taken his father’s words to the heart and looks set to stay put. Given his age and ability, there will be no dearth of future opportunities if he continues to develop as expected.
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We have seen with Donny van de Beek that players may sometimes find it difficult to make an impression from the get-go when they move to a new league. While the Dutchman can still come good, his first season with United should be a warning for Gravenberch.
Though talented, he still has much to develop. He will be best served ironing out his flaws before making a move to bigger and better things.
