Youri Baas has been a very important player for Ajax this season, but the Amsterdammers were reportedly open to letting the defender leave in the summer amid interest from Eintracht Frankfurt and FC Porto.

In addition to Baas, Ajax have two other left-footed centre-backs in Dies Janse and Daley Blind. Janse has impressed in the minutes he's played this season, and various reports suggest Ajax see more long-term potential in him than in Baas.

Blind rejoined Ajax in the summer on a free transfer, following Michel Sanchez from Girona to Amsterdam. Blind started four games for Ajax during UEFA Conference League qualifying but suffered an injury against Shelbourne FC in the away game and spent more than two months on the sidelines following that injury.

He returned to action against Sparta Rotterdam, coming on as a substitute in the final minutes, and also featured against AZ Alkmaar and FC Midtjylland.

Baas was recently linked with a potential move to Barcelona. The La Liga champions are said to be in the market for a centre-back, and Baas is one of the players said to be on their shortlist.

However, speaking on De Telegraaf's Kick-Off podcast, journalist Mike Verweij revealed that the chances of Baas moving to the Camp Nou are very low.

"The chance that Barça can sign him seems like zero," Verweij said, speaking about Barcelona and Baas.

"This is because Barcelona is dealing with salaries and Financial Fair Play rules.

"Ajax would also be crazy to sell him for too little during the winter break. It would have to be the absolute top price, and they can only pay that in England. Otherwise, I think it would be better to keep him in the title race.'

Baas has started predominantly as a left-sided centre-back for Ajax this season, but given Ajax have two other quality left-footed centre-backs in Janse and Blind, Michel Sanchez has occasionally opted to use Baas in different positions this season, and the Spanish head coach may continue to do that throughout the season.

Against Sparta Rotterdam, Baas started at left-back. Caio Henrique and Owen Wijndal have been the two left-backs Michel has used most so far this season, but both players like to get into advanced areas and play higher up the pitch. 

At left-back, Baas gives Michel a different profile compared to Henrique and Wijndal, as he can stay deeper and contribute in build-up, as opposed to playing high up the pitch.

Against Midtjylland, with both Sofyan Amrabat and Yves Bissouma unavailable, Michel decided to use Baas as the defensive midfielder, but when Ajax were in settled possession in the opponent's half, he dropped into a back three on the left side, with Davy Klaassen operating as the single midfield pivot. 

This setup suits Baas very well, as he is very good when facing play. He breaks lines and is important in helping Ajax progress the ball up the pitch.