Mike Verweij has provided an update on Ajax's transfer window.
Despite finishing nearly 30 points behind PSV Eindhoven last season, Ajax are aiming to win the Eredivisie this season.
Despite interest from Premier League clubs, Ajax pulled off the incredible signing of Julian Brandt. The German playmaker scored his first goal for Ajax in the club's 2-0 win against PEC Zwolle in the season opener.
Marc ter Stegen, who joined Ajax on loan from Barcelona, made his debut for Ajax against Zwolle, keeping a clean sheet and pulling off an impressive save from a close-range header. Adding a player of Ter Stegen's calibre significantly helps Ajax push for the title this season. He adds real quality to the squad, as well as experience.
Tolu Arokodare, who joined Ajax from Wolverhampton Wanderers on loan, has made a positive start, scoring in a friendly vs Volendam and assisting Jorthy Mokio's goal against Zwolle.
Ajax also signed Marcos Leonardo from Al Hilal for a fee in the region of €20 million. The Brazilian hasn't found form just yet in Amsterdam, but will undoubtedly be pivotal to Ajax's title charge once he does.
Daley Blind and Caio Henrique were brought in to reinforce the defence. Ajax are expected to make several signings in the coming weeks, but it is dependent on departures.
Ajax need to sell to buy
Brandt, Ter Stegen, Arokodare and Blind all cost nothing in terms of transfer fees. Ajax have spent €30.2 million and generated €39 million in transfer fees. Despite having a positive net spend, Ajax need to sell to buy now.
According to Mike Verweij of De Telegraaf, salary costs are now significantly higher than last season, which is why the Supervisory Board demands that several high earners be let go first.
Only then can Jordi Cruijff sign a right central defender, a number six, and a left and right winger. Ajax are working on a deal to sign Jofre Torrents from Barcelona, but Ajax want to sign him on an initial free transfer.
Who could leave Ajax?
Ajax are ready to sell Josip Sutalo, Kasper Dolberg, Ko Itakura and Owen Wijndal if suitable offers arrive.
Paris Saint-Germain are also working on a deal to sign Mika Godts, and it is expected that negotiations will advance after they play Aston Villa in the UEFA Super Cup. Godts has agreed to a long-term contract in Paris, but there is a difference in valuation between the clubs.
The Parisians are expected to soon make a new offer for Godts of around €55 million, including bonuses. Ajax want a fee of at least €60 million.
Sutalo has also attracted interest, with Benfica said to be keen on signing him as a replacement for Antonio Silva. At least one Premier League club is also reportedly interested.
As of now, nothing concrete has developed around the departures of Itakura, Wijndal and Dolberg.
