Transfer News: Chelsea target Ryan Gravenberch told to stay at Ajax
According to transfer news from Metro, Chelsea target Ryan Gravenberch has been told to stay back at Ajax. His father has asked him to reject the advances of clubs such as Chelsea and Liverpool to remain at Ajax.
Ryan Gravenberch is an 18-year-old Dutch midfielder who plays for Eredivisie side Ajax. He started out his youth career at AVV Zeeburgia before moving to Ajax’s youth setup in 2010. The midfielder spent the next few years progressing through the ranks.
He played a total of 44 games while scoring 8 goals and providing 13 assists. His good form meant that he was promoted to the senior team last season. So far, he has made 58 appearances, contributing to 9 goals and 7 assists.
Nonetheless, Chelsea have received a bit of a blow in their pursuit of Gravenberch, whose father has advised him to remain at Ajax and reject the advances of any other club.
‘He has to take that last step at Ajax. He just has to and he hasn’t done that yet. ‘I want him to fully mature at Ajax, so as far as I’m concerned he will just stay at Ajax. ‘He has only played one full season now and that was of course quite good, but next season he will have to play even better. Then, despite his age, he really must be one of the key players, especially if he plays in the European Championship [with the Netherlands].
‘Next season, he will not get away with it in the dressing room if he plays poorly several games in a row. ‘I really think he should take a step at Ajax first. He has to climb in the hierarchy and stand up more for himself within the squad. ‘I’m not going to push him to do that, that makes no sense to Ryan. But he also realises that. He also thinks it is best for him to stay at Ajax.’
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At just 18 years of age, he has broken into the Ajax senior side. This speaks volumes about his potential. Capable of playing as a central or defensive midfielder, Gravenberch would be a fine addition to the club. While the first-team might be a bit crowded in that department right now, given his talent, there is no doubt that he can be a huge long-term signing that Chelsea can pursue in the future.