Ajax is arguably one of the best run clubs in Europe. The Dutch side recently topped their Champions League group with a 100 per cent record, eliminating Dortmund in the process.
So when it comes to recruiting a new goalkeeper, you know their manager Erik Ten Hag will be consulting the opinion of one of the best shot stoppers of his generation, former Manchester United hero Edwin van der Sar.
Van der Sar is the chief executive at Ajax, and so it is notable to learn the Dutch side are interested in signing Dean Henderson from Manchester United, reported by The Telegraph earlier this week.
The Telegraph‘s report even goes as far to state that Van der Sar ‘is a fan of Henderson’.
Let’s cut to the point here: Van der Sar’s appreciation of Henderson and desire to sign him is a clear hint Manchester United should not let him go.
Loan fine, sale not
United clearly have a decision to make over Henderson in the short-term. He has just two appearances to his name this season.
David de Gea has been playing very well and just won Manchester United’s player of the month award for November.
The England international needs to go and play, and while easy for United to cash in, the club should resist the temptation and only sanction a loan move.
Van der Sar’s admiration of Henderson, and readiness to bring him into a Champions League level side, is a clear indication of how talented he is.
By selling the goalkeeper, United would be making an error. Van der Sar’s eagerness to bring him in speaks volumes.
Henderson showed a distinct style
Henderson came off his line to play as a sweeper-keeper three times in the draw against Young Boys.
This is the distinct difference between his own game and David de Gea’s, who is more usually seen rooted to his line.
De Gea often makes spectacular saves, while Henderson’s game is about cutting out the scoring opportunities before a save even has to be made.
Henderson used the midweek game to differentiate himself from De Gea, and ultimately the choice will come down to which style of goalkeeper is preferred by interim boss Ralf Rangnick.
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