Ajax have reportedly agreed on a fee with Manchester United to sign versatile Dutchman Daley Blind from Old Trafford this summer. The initial fee will be around £14.1m, which could rise up to £18.5m based on performance add-ons. Blind’s opportunities have been limited under Jose Mourinho, and he was more or less expected to leave England in the ongoing transfer window.
The 28-year-old, who is earning around £75,000-a-week, is contracted until the end of next season.
Letting him leave will be the right move for United as the player has clearly fallen down the pecking order, appearing in just 7 Premier League games last season. In spite of his versatility, the Dutchman has failed to fulfil the Portuguese gaffer’s demands.
Blind has been a part of Ajax before, coming through the academy ranks and becoming an integral first-team player. He was a vital cog for the team as they won four consecutive Eredivisie titles. The 28-year-old was also a key part of the Netherlands’ run to the semi-finals of the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
Blind was purchased during Louis van Gaal’s reign and he was expected to perform multiple roles for the team. However, he has failed to step up and establish himself as a vital piece in the Manchester United jigsaw. For that reason, the Dutchman hasn’t been able to make an impact under Mourinho and is currently seen as surplus to requirement at Old Trafford.
Needless to say, the fact that Ajax manager Erik ten Hag is ready to give him a chance to resurrect his career in his native country is truly commendable. This will not only appease the player but also enable the Dutch giants to welcome their hero back.
Concurrently, United will receive extra funds to spend elsewhere as Mourinho must get the Premier League title back to Old Trafford next season.
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Going through the aforementioned facts, it makes complete sense for Blind and Manchester United part ways. It won’t be wise for United to let his contract run and offload him for free. Hence, this is a dexterous move indeed and it goes without saying that the funds generated will boost their finances for additional transfer business.
