Ajax Pursues Experienced Midfielder Norgaard Amidst Strategic Recruitment

Ajax is intensively searching for an experienced defensive midfielder to bolster their squad, with reports from the Netherlands indicating that Arsenal’s Norgaard has emerged as a potential target. According to De Telegraaf, the Dutch club is thoroughly exploring the possibility of signing Norgaard, just months after he made the switch to the Gunners.

The connection to Norgaard arose when Ajax director Beuker was spotted traveling to Istanbul, following his team’s Champions League victory over Villarreal. Although his presence in Turkey suggests he may be negotiating with clubs in the Super Lig, insiders from Ajax assert that the club is casting a wide net in their pursuit of players. Beuker is reportedly in search of individuals who can serve as immediate leaders, and Norgaard, with his extensive Premier League experience, fits this profile exceptionally well.

Despite having recently transitioned to London, a departure so soon in his debut season would come as a surprise. Nevertheless, with Ajax prioritizing the acquisition of a seasoned midfielder, they appear prepared to test Arsenal’s resolve, particularly if Norgaard is inclined towards a guaranteed starting position in the Eredivisie.

Norgaard is not the only notable Premier League player under Ajax’s scrutiny. The report indicates that Beuker is strategically evaluating multiple targets, including Liverpool’s Wataru Endo and Manchester United’s Manuel Ugarte. This approach signifies a notable shift for Ajax, which has traditionally focused on youth development, as they now seek experienced professionals to guide their talented roster.

While Beuker is in Istanbul for discussions about other targets, the interest in Norgaard, Endo, and Ugarte implies that Ajax’s solution to their midfield dilemma may very well originate from the English top flight rather than Turkey.

Beuker’s trip to Istanbul, coinciding with European home games for both Galatasaray and Fenerbahce, is primarily for face-to-face meetings with agents. One of the key targets in Turkey appears to be former Arsenal midfielder Lucas Torreira, currently with Galatasaray, whose potential departure is deemed negotiable.

Moreover, a reunion with a former Ajax favorite is on the horizon. Beuker has reportedly arranged a meeting with the representatives of Edson Alvarez, the 28-year-old Mexican international on loan at Fenerbahce from West Ham. Despite a promising first half of the season, Alvarez’s position is at risk with the recent arrival of French superstar N’Golo Kante. With the World Cup approaching, Alvarez is concerned about his playing time and is open to returning to Amsterdam, where the club’s door remains open for him.

Additionally, Beuker may utilize this trip to discuss a loan for Aston Villa winger Leon Bailey, as Villa is in Istanbul to face Fenerbahce this Thursday.

The interest in Norgaard forms part of a broader strategy targeting Arsenal players. The De Telegraaf report states that the acquisition of Arsenal left-back Oleksandr Zinchenko is now highly likely.

The 29-year-old Ukrainian international has been heavily linked with a move to the Johan Cruyff Arena, and with that deal seemingly on the verge of completion, the focus has shifted entirely to strengthening the midfield. Securing both Zinchenko and Norgaard would represent a significant coup for Ajax, enhancing their squad with two seasoned professionals as they strive to regain their dominance in European football. Beuker’s mission is unequivocal: to infuse the team with experience, whether from the Bosphorus or the Emirates.