Ajax midfielder Reichedly Bazoer has caught the attention of several top Premier League clubs and will definitely be one of the hottest players on the market in the summer transfer window.
At 19 years of age, it looks like the Dutch midfielder has a bright career ahead of him. After impressing for Ajax in the Dutch Eredivisie, Bazoer has earned a call up for the Netherlands senior team and caught the attention of three top Premier League clubs.
Chasing Bazoer
Chelsea were initially linked with the player, with Spanish publication AS reporting that they had already begun talks with his representatives. Their Dutch manager Guus Hiddink had been asked by Roman Abramovich to use his connections in the Netherlands to bring the midfielder to Stamford Bridge.
However, according to recent reports by the Sunday People (via Daily Express), Arsenal are keen to hijack Chelsea’s move for the player. Arsene Wenger is very interested in Bazoer and has been sending scouts to watch every game of his for Ajax. Arsenal have long been in need of a commanding figure in the central midfield position and are ready to pay up 15 million pounds to beat their London rivals to the Dutchman’s signature.
Apart from Chelsea and Arsenal, the Daily Mail reports that even Pep Guardiola wants to make him one of his first signings upon his arrival at Manchester City. Other clubs interested in him include Juventus, Napoli and Borussia Dortmund, with Ajax reportedly rejecting a bid from Napoli already.
The next teenage sensation in the Premier League
Bazoer has already made more than 50 appearances for Ajax — scoring 4 goals in 29 appearances this season, including the winner against bitter rivals Feyenoord in Der Klassieker. The versatile teenager can play in a number of positions in midfield, as well as in central defence. His performances so far have led to comparisons with Dutch legend Frank Rijkaard and Arsenal hero Patrick Viera.
It will be a race between some heavy hitters in the Premier League which could see Bazoer’s price rise far above the 15 million pounds that Ajax are expecting for him. The fact that he is contracted to the Dutch club until 2020 will give them even more leverage in the transaction.
