Ajax are considering an approach for young Manchester United right-back Ethan Laird this summer, according to Gerjan Hamstelaar.
The Eredivisie champions are known for recruiting quality young players in the transfer market, and over the past few years, they have had a brilliant track record.
The Dutch outfit are currently in the process of signing Calvin Bassey and Francisco Conceicao, and could follow up the transfers with a move for United’s Laird.
Laird currently has a year left on his contract, but United have the option for another 12 months. It is reported that Ajax could propose a loan with an option to buy.
The 20-year-old has made just two competitive appearances for United thus far, and he is open to moving to Amsterdam in the search for regular first-team football.
Laird could transform his career at Ajax
The right-back is currently part of United’s pre-season tour where he has managed just 55 minutes across three friendlies. It seems unlikely that he will become a regular soon.
Diogo Dalot has been the preferred pick for the starting XI in pre-season. The Portuguese has been widely fancied to start the new Premier League campaign as the first-choice right-back.
Behind him, Aaron Wan-Bissaka should be the preferred choice unless he leaves. There is also competition from Brandon Williams, who did not travel due to a minor injury.
Laird has the chance to get minutes in the event of Wan-Bissaka and Williams leaving, but that is a big doubt at the moment with neither player being the subject of bids.
If the duo eventually make way, there is a good possibility that Erik ten Hag may want a new right-back in the squad. Hence, Laird could be better off making a move to Amsterdam.
Ajax have been open-minded in offering opportunities to upcoming talents over the years, and Laird could make the right-back position his own if he can rise up to the challenge.
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