Ajax Attacker Mohammed Kudus Valued at £40 Million as Manchester United Weighs Options

29 June, 2023

Amidst growing interest from Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, Ajax has set a price tag of £40 million on their talented forward, Mohammed Kudus, according to the Daily Mail. The departure of Cristiano Ronaldo has prompted United coach Erik ten Hag to seek reinforcements in the attacking department.

Ten Hag, in his short nine-month tenure, has already brought in two players from his previous club, Lisandro Martinez and Antony. It seems that he is now eyeing a third player with whom he has previously worked, indicating a keen interest in acquiring Kudus. Follow your favourite Premier League team with attractive football betting odds from Nextbet.

The 22-year-old Ghanaian player has been in exceptional form for Ajax throughout the 2022-23 season, netting an impressive 18 goals and providing six assists in 41 appearances across various competitions. Kudus’ outstanding achievements for both club and country led to him being awarded the prestigious Ghana Footballer of the Year accolade.

Furthermore, Kudus displayed his talent on the international stage during the 2022 World Cup, where he showcased his skills and netted two goals, attracting significant attention and fueling speculation about his future.

The young forward has caught the eye of Brighton and Manchester United, with over two years remaining on his contract with Ajax. His agent, Jennifer Mendelewitsch, has hinted at the possibility of a high-profile transfer for Kudus during the summer transfer window.

Ten Hag, having previously managed Kudus at Ajax, is particularly keen on a reunion with the Ghanaian international at Old Trafford. Kudus’ versatility adds to his appeal, as he is capable of playing in various positions within the attacking third of the field. Operating as an attacking midfielder or right winger for Ajax, he has the potential to operate as a right-sided attacker, a center-forward, or even as a false nine.

However, Manchester United seems more inclined to sign an established striker rather than taking a risk on a player who has not primarily played in that role during his time in the Eredivisie. The Red Devils already face scoring challenges, with Marcus Rashford carrying the bulk of the goal-scoring burden in the attacking third last season.

Anthony Martial’s future at Old Trafford seems uncertain, as the Frenchman has struggled to make an impact despite numerous opportunities to prove his worth. With Wout Weghorst no longer available as a potential option, Ten Hag is left with limited reliable choices for a center-forward role.

As Manchester United aims to bolster their front line, their primary target is Tottenham’s ace striker, Harry Kane. The club has set their sights on Kane to lead the attacking force next season, although negotiations with Tottenham Hotspur could prove challenging. Alternative options for Ten Hag include Benfica’s Goncalo Ramos and Atalanta’s Rasmus Hojlund, both of whom possess the capability to thrive in his system.

While Kudus represents an intriguing possibility due to his previous association with Ten Hag at Ajax, there are doubts about whether he can replicate his Eredivisie form in the highly competitive Premier League. The Red Devils must carefully evaluate their options and identify a striker who best fits their playing style under the Dutch manager. If Ten Hag believes Kudus is worth pursuing, considering their past connection, perhaps trusting his judgment is the way forward for Manchester United. Get the latest updates from the Premier League only on Nextbet Sports