
Audio By Carbonatix
Chelsea are in advanced talks to sign Ajax winger Hakim Ziyech this summer in a £38m deal that is likely to be announced in the coming days.
The 26-year-old was a January transfer target for Chelsea boss Frank Lampard.
But the Dutch club were unwilling to sell in the transfer window as they chase the Eredivisie title.
The signing of the Morocco international would be the first by Lampard following Chelsea's transfer window ban.
Chelsea were linked with a number of signings in the January window including Paris St-Germain forward Edinson Cavani and Napoli striker Dries Mertens.
But Lampard's apparent frustration with a lack of new arrivals is understood to have stemmed from clubs refusing to sell rather than any problems with Chelsea's recruitment strategy.
Ziyech contributed to a memorable Ajax goal against Chelsea in the 4-4 draw in their Champions League group game in November.
The winger's free-kick from near the corner flag, curled over Kepa Arrizabalaga's head and hit the far post before rebounding in off the Chelsea goalkeeper for an own goal.
Ziyech played the final 10 minutes of Ajax's 3-0 win against Vitesse in the Dutch Cup on Wednesday, as he returned from a calf injury.
After the game, Ajax boss Erik ten Hag said: "I am not surprised by the news about Ziyech. I know that our players are very popular with the big clubs in Europe. That is just great.
"I have known for a long time what Hakim wants. He has a picture in mind. He knows exactly which clubs he finds interesting and which not. Chelsea is a fantastic club. When it is final, I am very happy for Hakim, and I am very proud of it."
Latest Stories
-
EBID to mobilise $2.69bn under new 2026–2030 growth strategy – Dr George Donkor
2 minutes -
An open letter to telcos, regulators and security agencies on mobile money fraud in Ghana
2 minutes -
Mobile Money Merchants are driving fraud
17 minutes -
Alban Bagbin declines minority’s motion to investigate sale of gold reserves at BoG
17 minutes -
NACOC leadership tours drug testing centres in Accra
19 minutes -
OSP’s power to prosecute without AG’s authorisation unconstitutional – AG files at Supreme Court
21 minutes -
Seven African referees selected for World Cup 2026 as Ndala, Issa Sy miss out
39 minutes -
Why diaspora investors are using Accra real estate to hedge against global uncertainty in 2026
1 hour -
GWL urges public support to stem water thefts
1 hour -
Fire guts 2-storey apartment at Ashaley Botwe
1 hour -
Come down and account, it’s a constitutional requirement – Martin Kpebu to Ofori-Atta
1 hour -
The power of the private courtyard: How regalia is redefining resort-style living in Accra
1 hour -
Beyond roads and bridges: Understanding the true role of your MP
1 hour -
UK says Russia ran submarine operation over cables and pipelines
1 hour -
NPRA recovers GH¢27m in 2025, 30% of defaulted pension contributions
2 hours