Ajax Faces Urgent Need for Midfielder as Transfer Deadline Approaches

Is Ajax experiencing a state of panic? It certainly seems so. With the transfer deadline rapidly approaching, the Amsterdam club has yet to secure their coveted new number six.

Ajax has officially placed bids for both Fred and Edson Álvarez, indicating the mounting urgency of the situation. The quest for a central midfielder has become a significant headache for the club, especially following the departure of Jordan Henderson on a free transfer last summer to alleviate his hefty salary. Since then, it has been reported repeatedly that the team is in dire need of a controlling midfielder and a genuine leader—a two-in-one solution.

Commenting on the situation around the recent draw against Excelsior (2-2), interim coach Fred Grim addressed the issue of his namesake, saying, “Several names have come up in discussions. We explored the feasibility of acquiring a second Fred for Ajax, which would have been exciting. However, that option has turned out to be significantly more expensive than the first Fred, making it unfortunately unattainable.” The Brazilian player commands an extraordinary salary in Istanbul and is also in negotiations with other clubs. Flamengo has shown interest, while Olympiakos is considering a loan option with a purchase clause valued at eleven million euros. Additionally, Al-Ittihad, the club employing players such as Steven Bergwijn, remains a potential option.