Ten Hag to implement Ajax plan as academy star wows in training

Jacque Talbot

• 28 Jul 2023 15:10 BST
• 3 min read

Erik ten Hag plans to replicate an Ajax youth team by giving young players a seamless transition into the senior squad, with Kobbie Mainoo’s performances in pre-season indicating that it’s a philosophy that can prove successful.

The Manchester United manager has informed all of his academy players to emulate the style of the first team, with training plans now being altered to fit the model, reports MEN.

Indeed, Mainoo has wowed Ten Hag with his showings during this summer window, while the club have a number of other young stars who could well breakthrough into the first-team in the coming years.

READ MORE: Romano says Man Utd have 'MATCH POINT' for top transfer target

The model is set to make Man Utd stand out with a particular identity, going across all ages. It comes after the news that the side are set to land Rasmus Hojlund after Atalanta secured the signing of El Bilal Toure.

Erik ten Hag is targeting the youngster to bolster this attack but has yet to find an agreement with Atalanta.

Transfer reports Fabrizio Romano, speaking on his YouTube channel, said that now Man Utd are in pole position to land the player.

READ MORE: Romano knows the TRUTH about Caicedo to Chelsea

Fabrizio Romano gives lowdown on Rasmus Hojlund

“Man Utd are preparing a new attack, they are being very aggressive in the negotiation. Atalanta are expecting a new bid. Man Utd feel they have a match point in the Rasmusd Hojund. The club know that the player wants to join. PSG did send a bid but Hojlund is obsessed with Man Utd. But now Man Utd have to show, in terms of money, that they are obsessed with Rasmus Hojlund.”

Man Utd are wanting to bring in Hojund before their season starts against Wolves on 14 August and there is confidence that it can be done.

The club do not wish to pay more than £60million but there is a feeling that a middle ground can be reached.