European giants Ajax have reportedly begun talks to sign Thiago Almada, with Atlanta United’s star player attracting major transfer interest.
90min report that the Dutch side have expressed an interest in signing the Argentine international, with Ajax now in discussions to sign Almada before the European summer window deadline.
As per the report, Ajax considers Almada as a potential replacement for Mohammed Kudus, who is close to joining Premier League side West Ham in a £38m ($50m) transfer.
Lauded by MLS’ official website as an ‘electric’ player, Almada is easily one of the best players in the division and a talent who is more than ready to make the leap to Europe this summer.
However, Atlanta’s eagerness to keep hold of Almada could make Ajax’s pursuit of the Argentine difficult, with the Five Stripes in no mood to sell their star player this summer.
Although Atlanta doesn’t want to sell, Ajax’s stature and reputation as one of the biggest clubs in Europe could force Almada to make a move, an outcome that the Georgia franchise can’t allow.
Atlanta have to put Ajax off signing Almada this summer
Interest in Almada this summer was a given based on how good the youngster is, yet Atlanta have to do all they can to stop Ajax from signing the playmaker.
A deal in January could benefit the Five Stripes more than a transfer this summer, with Atlanta currently in no position to find a suitable replacement for Almada.
Moreover, the Argentine’s value can increase greatly between now and 2024, especially if Atlanta can make it to the MLS postseason in the coming weeks.