Chelsea look set to have a major say in whether Manchester United complete the signing of Antony from Ajax. Hakim Ziyech has been heavily linked with a move to the Johan Cruyff Arena this summer as the Dutch giants prepare to offload the Brazilian.
The Blues winger, who sees his contract at Stamford Bridge expire in 2025, started just 14 times in the Premier League last season, directly contributing towards seven goals. Despite a promising start to the campaign, a series of injuries saw the Moroccan quickly fall out of favour under Thomas Tuchel and he's since been linked with an exit.
football.london understand that the west Londoners are open to selling Ziyech should a suitable offer be tabled. It's said that AC Milan have made an offer worth €25million (£21million) - with €5million (£4.2millinon) to be paid this year and €20million (£16.8million) the next - earlier in the summer, which was rejected.
READ MORE: Todd Boehly can sign perfect 'Didier Drogba heir' if Chelsea win £40m transfer race with Man Utd
According to Dutch journalist Gerjan Hamstelaar, as quoted by The Express, Ajax have since emerged as a potential destination for Ziyech, with the Eredivisie champions likely to cash-in on Antony. However, it's said that Chelsea are insistent on a fee which is deemed too much by Ajax.
And, as a result, the report adds that, unless the Blues lower their asking price, then Ajax will have to find a new target otherwise Antony, whose £84million asking price is yet to be met, will not be allowed to leave. Therefore, as it stands with the transfer window deadline fast-approaching, Chelsea look well-positioned to spoil United's late swoop.
Despite an exit from Tuchel's side on the cards, Ziyech has always spoken highly of his boss. Speaking to the official Chelsea website in March, the winger said: "He has a clear idea what he wants, how we want to play. He's bringing that to the group in a really good way. In defending wise we all have our responsibility and attacking we have our freedom to find spaces and create chances."
READ NEXT:
Thomas Tuchel new Chelsea attack if £22m Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang transfer is confirmed
Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel responds to Christian Pulisic and Callum Hudson-Odoi transfer talk
Chelsea must spend £18m more to sign Ivan Toney over Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
Full Chelsea Premier League fixture list for 2022/23
Chelsea transfer business under the microscope in 'good deal' or 'bad deal'
