Ajax’s Pursuit of Kodai Sano Faces Challenges

Ajax appears to be struggling to secure the transfer of Kodai Sano to Amsterdam. While there may be another opportunity in the summer, according to Leen Looijen, it is realistic to expect that the NEC standout will move to a much larger club.

NEC has made it clear that Sano will not be leaving this winter. Looijen supports this decision, stating, “If he stays, the chances of qualifying for European football increase.” In an interview with ESPN, he expressed hope for a summer transfer, adding, “I would advise Sano—and I admit my bias—to remain here. He is a player suited for truly large clubs.”

NEC’s managing director, Wilco van Schaik, has already indicated in De Bestuurskamer that Sano will not depart this winter. He has made this clear to Sano and his agent, stating, “You need to communicate, manage expectations, and sometimes let things unfold. We know what we are doing and what we have communicated: he is not leaving.”