However, United should also be keen to sign Kudus. The dynamic star would complete Ten Hag’s midfield overhaul and give the Dutchman a far better squad than he had last season.
Ten Hag would likely have an advantage if United entered the race to sign Kudus. The Red Devils head coach remains well-liked in Amsterdam, while their deals for Lisandro Martinez and Antony 12 months ago means United are well connected with the Eredivisie outfit.
United perhaps need Kudus more than Chelsea or Arsenal do. Both clubs are well stocked in the positions the former Nordsjaelland prospect plays.
According to the Independent, Ajax value Kudus at around £40m. Arsenal likely need to sell before they can buy, while Chelsea seem focused on bringing midfielder Moises Caicedo from Brighton.
That could leave United a free run at Kudus if they wish to sign a player who performed so well under Ten Hag during their spell together at Ajax. A reunion could help United challenge for the Premier League title.
Ajax are hoping to keep their best player, but know from experience that some stars have their sights set on the Premier League. They were frustrated by the exits of Martinez and Antony to Old Trafford last summer.
“There are clubs that have informally enquired about [Kudus],” sporting director Sven Mislintat recently told Ajax Life. “I don’t expect an offer very soon, although you know that things can be different in the football world. Perhaps the interest is not as serious as everyone thinks.”