Hakim Ziyech |
The 26 year old was a January transfer
target for Chelsea boss Frank Lampard.But the Dutch
club were unwilling to sell in the transfer window as they chase the Eredevisie
title.The signing of the Morocco international would be the first by Lampard
following Chelsea's transfer window ban.
Chelsea were linked with a number of signings in
the January window including Paris St-Germain forward Edinson Cavani and Napoli
striker Dries Mertens.But Lampard's
apparent frustration with a lack of new arrivals is understood to have stemmed
from clubs refusing to sell rather than any problems with Chelsea's recruitment
strategy.
Ziyech contributed to a
memorable Ajax goal against Chelsea in the 4-4 draw in their
Champions League group game in November. The winger's free kick from near the
corner flag, curled over Kepa Arrizabalaga's head and hit the far post before
rebounding in off the Chelsea goalkeeper for an own goal.
Ziyech played the final 10 minutes of Ajax's 3-0
win against Vitesse in the Dutch Cup on Wednesday, as he returned from a calf
injury. After the game, Ajax boss Erik ten Hag said: "I am not surprised by the news about Ziyech.
I know that our players are very popular with the big clubs in Europe.
I have
known for a long time what Hakim wants. He has a picture in mind. He knows
exactly which clubs he finds interesting and which not. Chelsea is a fantastic
club. When it is final, I am very happy for Hakim, and I am very proud of it.
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