Manchester United have identified Ghanaian superstar Mohammed Kudus as an option for their frontline.
The Red Devils have plundered Ajax plenty for players since former de Godenzonen chief Erik ten Hag picked up the reins at Old Trafford. Lisandro Martinez joined to strengthen the backline before Antony headed to the Premier League – and United were linked with the lines of Jurrien Timber and Ryan Gravenberch, too.
Kudus is just the latest in a long line, following impressive showings in both the Champions League and at the World Cup with the Black Stars. Ajax are apparently resigned to losing him in the long term and have slapped a price tag on his head for his future move.
According to the Daily Star, Ten Hag wants to bring the left-footer in midseason as a Cristiano Ronaldo replacement, with Kudus' employers valuing him at £40 million.
This would make some sense given that Cody Gakpo – another striker that United were in for during the summer – was sold from PSV to Liverpool for a figure in the same region.
Kudus is ferocious in the final third with a strong shot, as Liverpool found out when Ajax came to Anfield and the 22-year-old shocked the Kop with a rocket. He can also play deeper in midfield, however, where he excelled for Ghana in Qatar in November, making him a versatile tool for Ten Hag's squad.
With the likes of Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho who can play in various positions, there is scope for Kudus to join a fluid attack similar to the one that Ten Hag had during his time at the Johan Cruyff Arena. Players such as Dusan Tadic, David Neres and Hakim Ziyech were drifted and would interchange positions when Ajax were at their free-flowing best – and United could do something similar.
Ten Hag has been effusive of Kudus in the past, managing him for two years before leaving the Netherlands for Old Trafford and telling Ziggo Sport, "You can see the incredible potential that boy has," in 2020.
"We will enjoy it a lot," the Dutchman said of the attacker's versatility. "He can be used in several positions and that multifunctionality can help us well this year."
Kudus is valued at €20m by Transfermarkt.
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Erik ten Hag has made winning trophies with his 'professional New Year's resolution' for 2023; United haven't claimed any silverware since the League Cup and Europa League under Jose Mourinho some six years ago.
