Ghana international Mohamed Kudus is enjoying an excellent breakout season at Ajax despite the Dutch club’s dip in form after Erik ten Hag’s exit.
The 22-year-old struck four goals in six Champions League games earlier in the campaign, leading The Telegraph to link him with a move to Manchester United.
Two goals in three games at the World Cup saw 90Min claim in January that United had escalated their pursuit of the versatile forward.
Kudus has continued to perform well for Ajax since the World Cup, netting five goals in his last seven games.
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Kudus ‘better than Antony’
Kudus’ from has led to praise from Dutch legend Marco van Basten, who described him as ‘better than Antony’ and went on to explain why.
The forward played on the right wing in Ajax’s 4-0 win over Groningen at the weekend, scoring once and also hitting the woodwork.
Van Basten told Voetbal International: “‘I even think he’s much better than Antony. He’s a better footballer and he’s more fun to play with.
“‘Antony had actions, but he could also be so confused. Kudus has a much firmer technique and knows where he is going. Antony may be faster, but Kudus is smarter and more technical. He is much more of a footballer and an all-rounder for the team.”
While its not a surprise to see Van Basten talking up a current Ajax star and denigrating a player who left the club in bitter circumstances, the praise for Kudus is well earned.
This season he has played as a striker, an attacking midfielder, and winger, and keeps on producing. His record for this season stands at 15 goals and three assists, which is more than Antony’s total last season, so statistically the comparison holds up.
Kudus’ versatility would be useful for Erik ten Hag, who signed him for Ajax in 2020. If he keeps on performing at a high level, expect the rumours with United to continue to evolve heading into the summer.
He would be expensive – but if United want him, the club will likely be able to afford him without too many issues.
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