Man Utd target reveals relief after transfer was blocked last summer

Suraj Radia

• Updated: 19 Mar 2023 11:40 GMT
• 2 min read

Manchester United have reportedly identified Mohammed Kudus as a transfer target this summer but the forward has admitted he is grateful for the ‘positive’ decision that saw Ajax block his exit last year.

Kudus is enjoying a breakout season with Ajax and is the Dutch side’s joint-top scorer this season with 11 Eredivisie goals, prompting speculation that Erik ten Hag is keen to bring him to United.

Having previously struggled to establish himself as a regular in Ajax’s team, Kudus was keen to join Everton last summer but Ajax stopped him from leaving, a decision which he is happy was made after his initial disappointment.

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“The fact that Ajax blocked a transfer to Everton last summer disappointed me,” Kudus said. I thought it was time for a new chapter in my career, because I wasn’t playing here.

“But the moment the transfer market closed, my full focus was back on Ajax. The only reason I wanted to leave before that was because of my reserve role.

“I eliminated that problem myself. Everton are not doing well in the Premier League, Ajax are in the title race. And under John Heitinga I am a permanent fixture.

“I have a strong faith in God. And he has made the positive decision for me not to let the transfer go through.”

Kudus open to Ajax renewal

United have identified Kudus as a potential option to solve their striker issues, with Wout Weghorst set to return to Burnley at the end of the season after an underwhelming loan spell.

Harry Kane, Victor Osimhen and Goncalo Ramos are also on the club’s shortlist but Kudus could be targeted by Ten Hag after playing under the United boss at Ajax.

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However, Kudus has hinted that he could be willing to extend his contract at the Dutch side, with his current deal set to expire in 2025.

“I am very happy at Ajax at the moment,” he said. “Why wouldn’t I want to renew? I play and develop well. Now it’s about negotiation and valuation.

“When the time is right, we’ll see how it goes. But that will have to be conducted with my agent. I want to focus entirely on the title race.”