TALENT CONVEYOR BELT
Ajax remain a selling club despite Cup final windfall
Success in reaching a first European club competition final in 21 years has revitalised the Ajax brand
Amsterdam — Ajax Amsterdam can expect a windfall from its Europa League final against Manchester United on Wednesday, but any thought this could be the start of a dynasty to rival their all-conquering team of the 1970s will be quashed by reality. Success in reaching a first European club competition final in 21 years has revitalised the Ajax brand. "It is probably the biggest compliment of this year’s run to the final that Europe is again talking about Ajax," said club marketing director Edwin van der Sar, who kept goal for Manchester United and Ajax. But the reality for the Dutch club — which has an operating budget of €85m – over the last decades has been their role as a producer, and then swift seller, of talent. The shop window of the Europa League final in Stockholm means Ajax can expect added interest in a bevy of players already earmarked for the exit door at lucrative profit for the Amsterdam club. Captain Davy Klaassen has a price tag of €25m and is set for a move to Everto...
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