Ajax have hijacked West Ham United’s bid to sign Carlos Borges from Manchester City. The youngster will now make the move to the record Eredivisie champions instead of the 2023 Europa Conference League winners.
The documents have been exchanged for the transfer, and it is only a matter of time before it is confirmed by all the parties involved. Ajax will be paying a fee worth £17 million for the transfer, and have included a buyback clause for City, as well as a sell-on clause, which means that the treble winners will be entitled to a percentage of any future fee that Ajax receive for the player.
Carlos Borges to sign for Ajax after West Ham United deal hijacked
The winger has agreed terms over a four-year contract with Ajax, and is in Amsterdam to complete the move. West Ham had initially hoped that £14 million would be enough to get the deal over the line. But, the Dutch side made a higher offer worth £17 million and have now secured a deal for their transfer target.
The teenager had a brilliant season in the Premier League 2, scoring 21 goals in 24 games while also providing 11 assists. This helped the Sky Blues finish 13 points clear at the top of the table.
And after not being given a first team opportunity by Pep Guardiola, he will be developing at Ajax, which is renowned for being one of the best clubs for young players to improve on their talent. West Ham, on the other hand, remain the only Premier League club to have not signed any players.
This is surprising for numerous reasons, firstly because of their Conference League win, and secondly, because of the lack of investment in spite of receiving £105 million for Declan Rice.