Barcelona interested in Ajax star following Dembele’s transfer

Barcelona have been considering multiple attacking solutions to strengthen Xavi’s side following Ousmane Dembélé’s transfer to Paris Saint-Germain.

The first two La Liga games have underlined Barca’s struggles in breaking apart deep defences. They failed to rattle Getafe goalkeeper David Soria’s net in the opening match-week and dropped two points.

The first home game of the season at Estadi Lluis Companys was also a dull affair, and it took a decisive through ball from İlkay Gündoğan in the 82nd minute of the game to slice open Cadiz’s rigid backline.

Robert Lewandowski looks a bit rusty and the Blaugrana lack a forward who’s capable of proving a nightmare for defenders either with his dribbling – akin to Dembélé – or movement.

Barcelona looked at Ajax star Mohammed Kudus

In that regard, Ajax star Mohammed Kudus emerged on the club’s radar. As per SPORT, the Catalan outfit’s sporting department considered him a valid option for Xavi’s frontline. In particular, they appreciated his ability to make an impact from the left flank.

However, it’s claimed “financial agreement is impossible” to make the transfer happen. Barcelona offered either a deferred payment or a loan with an option to buy the 23-year-old versatile forward, but Ajax wanted more than 40 million euros to sanction his exit.

Kudus, who was directly involved in 25 goals for the Amsterdam-based club last season, is one of Europe’s most sought-after talents. Multiple Premier League clubs, including West Ham, have enquired about him, allowing Ajax to stick to their price tag.

Even if the Ghana international doesn’t leave the Eredivisie this summer, he’s likely to attract plenty of interest in future transfer windows. It is suggested that the La Liga giants have been in touch with his entourage and will continue to monitor him.

For now, Joao Felix on loan seems like the only business Barcelona would be able to complete before the close of the window.