Ajax has received a demand from Chelsea for winger Hakim Ziyech of roughly £37 million, which hurts Manchester United’s hopes of acquiring Antony from the Dutch champions.

Ajax wants to re-sign Ziyech but has balked at Chelsea’s asking price. If they are unable to do so, their chances of selling Antony are reduced.

Ziyech was seen to be the obvious alternative for Antony, a player valued at £84 million but refusing to practice in hopes of joining Manchester United by next week.

On Thursday, Ajax’s management held a meeting to evaluate the matter. Coach Alfred Schreuder stated, “Antony is not working with the group, but I do see him every day.”

There has been no change. Antony, I assume, will remain at Ajax. He is employed at Ajax. I have confidence in this.

Ziyech spent four years at Amsterdam before moving on to Chelsea for £33.3 million in 2020. During that period, he scored 49 goals and contributed 81 assists.

His time at Stamford Bridge, however, has not been as fruitful as he had hoped, and the Moroccan star is eager to quit the team after failing to secure a consistent berth in Thomas Tuchel’s starting XI.

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