Pranav Nair
Ajax lead Manchester United in the race for Kamaldeen Sulemana
According to Football Insider, Manchester United have suffered a setback in their pursuit of Ghanian wonderkid Kamaldeen Sulemana.
It was revealed last month that a United delegation flew out to Denmark in order to hold talks with the player. While it was reported that discussions were positive, it would appear to be far from the case.
Dutch champions Ajax Amsterdam who made an unsuccessful attempt to land the 19-year-old last January have bow stolen the march on us. They are now in the driving seat to land the young ace.
The 19-year-old, who joined Danish side FC Nordsjaelland in February 2020. He has 10 goals and 8 assists in 30 appearances this season for them. Not a bad haul for a player who is new to European football.
United’s director of football John Murtough has led the negotiations for Sulemana. However, it does not appear to have done us any good.
Ajax for their part have opened the bidding with a package worth £12m in total while United have stalled over making an offer. Nordsjaelland could be persuaded to sell the young forward for £15m.
A major point in Ajax’s favour is that they will not need to secure a work permit. The same cannot be said for United. Under the new post-Brexit transfer rules, Sulemana does not have enough points to gain a work permit.
It could howeverchange if the teenager makes one more competitive appearance for Ghana or if the Danish league climbs one place in the UEFA co-efficients.
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Unlike United, Ajax are keen to get the deal done and could wrap it up before we make a move. Given Sulemana’s potential, he is well worth the risk.
