Manchester United learn how much the Ajax attacker could cost this summer
According to the Daily Mail, Ajax have slapped a £40 million price tag on Manchester United target Mohammed Kudus amid widespread interest from Premier League clubs.
United coach Erik ten Hag is eager to strengthen his attacking choices following the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo, who terminated his contract by mutual agreement.
Within the span of nine months since his appointment, the 52-year-old manager has already brought in Lisandro Martinez and Antony from his previous club.
It is stated that the Dutch boss was looking to sign a third player with whom he had previously worked, which points to his interest in Kudus.
During the 2022-23 season, the 22-year-old player has been in impressive form for his Dutch club, scoring 18 goals and providing six assists in 41 appearances across various competitions. He recently won the Ghana Footballer of the Year award for his impressive achievements for both club and country.
Kudus also showcased his talent on the international stage, delivering noteworthy performances for his country during the 2022 World Cup. He managed to score two goals in the tournament, attracting significant attention and sparking speculation about his future in recent weeks.
The forward has attracted interest from Brighton and Manchester United. He currently has a little over two years remaining on his contract with Ajax.
The player’s agent, Jennifer Mendelewitsch, has indicated that the player could seal a high-profile transfer away from Ajax this summer.
Ten Hag is particularly keen on reuniting with the Ghanaian international, having previously managed him at Ajax before moving to Old Trafford. Kudus possesses the ability to play in various positions within the attacking third of the field, making him a versatile player.
This skillset adds to his appeal, as he can operate as a right-sided attacker, a centre-forward, or even as a false nine. However, Kudus didn’t play as a regular striker for Ajax, as he was operating as an attacking midfielder or a right winger for the Dutch club.
United would prefer signing a proper striker instead of taking a gamble on a player who has not been leading the front line during his tenure at the Eredivisie. The Red Devils are already dealing with goal-scoring issues, as Marcus Rashford contributed the majority of the goals in the attacking third last season.
Anthony Martial’s time at Old Trafford appears to be coming to an end, as the Frenchman couldn’t capitalise on the multiple chances given to him to demonstrate his value.
Wout Weghorst, who was previously considered a potential option, is no longer available to Man United, leaving coach Ten Hag with limited reliable centre-forward choices.
It remains uncertain whether the 22-year-old can replicate his Eredivisie form in the Premier League next season. United could potentially target Benfica’s Goncalo Ramos or Atalanta’s Rasmus Hojlund. Both strikers are capable of playing in Ten Hag’s system.
While the former could grab extra cash out of the club’s pocket, the latter is available for a relatively cheaper fee of just £52 million.
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In our opinion, the Red Devils have a number of options to look out for; they just need to focus on the right striker who could suit the Dutchman’s style of play. Given the Ajax links, we should trust Tren Hag if he decides that United should pursue Kudus.
