Roland Cutinho
Manchester United are keeping tabs on Chelsea winger Hakim Ziyech
According to transfer insider Dean Jones on GiveMeSport (h/t football.london), Manchester United would be willing to enter the race to sign Chelsea winger Hakim Ziyech this summer. Erik ten Hag would be looking to reunite with his former Ajax player as he is close to leaving Chelsea.
The 29-year-old winger joined the Blues in July 2020 on a five-year contract. The former Ajax manager, ten Hag will be familiar with the exceptional performances that the Moroccan showered in the Eredivisie.
However, he has been just a shadow of his original self when it comes to performing at Stamford Bridge. Ziyech racked up an impressive 80 assists and 64 goals in just 169 appearances for the Dutch team. But due to several reasons, he was unable to work the same magic under Thomas Tuchel.
Although the winger still has three years left on his contract, he would be open to a move. Todd Boehly has been looking busy in signing new players but the club would be willing to let some of their own players leave.
Chelsea would be open to starting talks if the right offer comes through. Fabrizio Romano had claimed that AC Milan were in direct contact with the Blues to sign the Moroccan attacker. However, a consensus is yet to be reached, giving other teams the opportunity to make a move.
Speaking in an interview, Dean Jones likened the possibility of Manchester United going for his signature. He said:
“The Ziyech move to AC Milan has stuttered a little and if that situation drags on let’s not rule out the idea that Ten Hag looks to take him to United instead.”
What Does This Mean To Manchester United And Particularly, Erik Ten Hag?
Manchester United have Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford, and Anthony Martial to switch positions down the flank. However, Cristiano Ronaldo’s uncertain future leaves a space to fill. The forward position could be covered by a new striker or Martial himself would be given the chance to revive his career under the Dutchman.
(Photo by Chris Lee/Getty Images)
However, Rashford’s form last season would let Ten Hag look for more depth in the squad. With many younger players ready to harness the opportunity to play, the club would still cherish the opportunity to sign a new player.
Hakim Ziyech has the experience of playing in big matches as seen by his performances for Ajax. The Dutch manager would have a better understanding of Ziyech’s style of play and that would suit him well.
During their time at Ajax, ten Hag preferred to deploy the 29-year-old in the right-wing position. It is something worth exploring at Old Trafford next season.
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Even if the club decides to sign the winger he would directly compete with Jadon Sancho for the starting spot. However, these are just the initial days and it would be interesting to see how the entire situation unfolds in the upcoming weeks.
