Leeds United and Victor Orta have set their sights on Ajax defender Noussair Mazraoui, according to Football Insider.
The Lowdown: Mazraoui profiled
Mazraoui is 23 years of age and is primarily a right-back who can also provide cover in central midfield.
He’s been on the senior books with the Dutch giants since 2018 and is out of contract at the end of the current campaign.
The Morocco international has made 113 appearances for Ajax and has actually averaged better dribbling stats than Whites star Raphinha throughout their respective careers. [WhoScored]
The Latest: Source shares update
Football Insider shared a story on Thursday morning, where they revealed the Whites’ interest following an update from a Leeds source.
They suggested that the door is now open for a possible Elland Road move to materialise, with Mazraoui recently hiring super-agent Mino Raiola – Erling Haaland’s representative.
The Verdict: A shrewd move
Mazraoui appears to be made for a Marcelo Bielsa side with his versatility and attacking attributes.
As mentioned, he’s statistically a better dribbler than Raphinha and can also provide cover in midfield, so a possible free transfer next summer could be a smart move.
He’s already contributed to seven goals in 11 appearances from right-back this season, so Mazraoui could be the perfect long-term successor to Luke Ayling.
In other news: Phil Hay now drops worrying three-word Leeds update on Raphinha’s availability vs Southampton.