Donny van de Beek holds key to Kudus future as Man Utd plot HIJACK attempt

Cameron Smith

31 Jul 2023 12:42 BST
3 min read

Mohammed Kudus, Ajax, 2022/23 — © ProShots

Donny van de Beek could play a key role in Manchester United’s pursuit of Ajax star Mohammed Kudus, with reports suggesting the Dutchman may be used as a makeweight in the deal.

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Van de Beek, 26, joined the Red Devils from Ajax back in 2020, but has been unable to establish himself as a consistent figure in the side and has made just six Premier League starts since he arrived from the Eredivisie.

He has been linked with an exit this summer, and a return to Ajax could be a potential option for the former Netherlands international.

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Furthermore, Van de Beek may help Man Utd land Kudus, who is seen as a versatile option by Erik ten Hag.

Both Arsenal and Chelsea are also interested in signing the Ghana international, with Kudus preferring a move to the Emirates Stadium due to the allure of Champions League football, as exclusively reported by FootballTransfers.

However, Man Utd are prepared to hijack Kudus’ proposed move to London, as reported by multiple sources, and have Van de Beek as the perfect ace up their sleeve, according to Sports World Ghana.

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Kudus to Man Utd?

Ten Hag played a key role in bringing Kudus to Ajax during his time at the Eredivisie club and sees him as a player who is capable of playing through the middle as well as slightly deeper.

His history with Kudus may give Man Utd the edge, along with Van de Beek’s possible return to Amsterdam, although Rasmus Hojlund’s imminent arrival may limit Man Utd’s spending power.

The Red Devils are set to focus their attentions on signing Fiorentina midfielder Sofyan Amrabat once Hojlund’s move is officially confirmed - as revealed by FootballTransfers - which could hinder the likeliness of Kudus joining.

Kudus, 22, scored 18 goals and provided seven assists in all competitions for Ajax during the 2022/23 campaign.