Ajax have done 'everything they can' to keep Manchester United manager-elect Erik ten Hag but are preparing for his exit. That's the message from Gerry Hamstra, who was recently appointed as technical manager for the Eredivisie giants.
Manchester Evening News reported last month that Ten Hag was a preferred candidate to step into the dugout as permanent manager, while suggestions that a verbal agreement are in place can be backed up by key figures in the boardroom waiting for a decision before pressing forward with transfers.
As yet there has been no confirmation. However, it appears increasingly likely that Ten Hag - who had steered Ajax into the Dutch Cup final before they were beaten by PSV Eindhoven on Sunday afternoon - will touch down at Old Trafford in time for next season.
READ MORE: Erik ten Hag pattern with Ajax hints at first Manchester United transfer
Speaking before that showdown, Hamstra - who replaced Marc Overmars and works alongside the former United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar - confirmed that Ajax had laid down a contract offer for Ten Hag and acknowledges any final decision is out of the Dutch club's hands.
Hamstra told ESPN Netherlands : "I can be very brief and powerful about that. We've done everything we can and are doing everything we can to keep him on board. Contract extension offered? Yes. More money? Everything that goes with it, without going into detail.
"Erik can ultimately determine his own future, he is old and wise enough for that. We have two scenarios, we very much hope that he stays and, if he doesn't stay, we have to be ready for the second scenario."
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