Ajax and Chelsea schedule further Hakim Ziyech talks ahead of imminent Man Utd Antony bid

Ajax and Chelsea have scheduled further talks over Hakim Ziyech ahead of Manchester United’s bid for Antony.

The Brazilian has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer, with Man United now re-entering the race to sign the Ajax star.

Ziyech’s brother recently dropped a major transfer hint on social media by posting a picture of the Moroccan during his time at Ajax, with it believed that the 29-year-old could be set for a return to Amsterdam.

He is seen as the ideal replacement for Antony, if the Brazilian winger is to join Man United and link up with former boss Erik ten Hag this summer. 

Chelsea v Arsenal Christian Pulisic (10 Chelsea) and Hakim Ziyech (22 Chelsea) prepare for a free kick during the FC Series game between Chelsea and Arsenal. (Alamy)

Ziyech was heavily linked with a transfer to AC Milan during the window, but the Italian club have pulled out of negotiations in recent weeks.

Timo Werner and Romelu Lukaku both sealed exits, returning to their former clubs RB Leipzig and Inter Milan respectively, and Ziyech could also return to his former side.

Christian Pulisic and Callum Hudson-Odoi have also been linked with moves away, with the former reported to be closing in on a move to Bayer Leverkusen on loan.

It now appears that Ziyech could be set to follow Hudson-Odoi out of the door at Stamford Bridge.

As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Ajax and Chelsea have scheduled a new round of talks for the Moroccan.

He is said to be their priority target this summer, awaiting a bid from Man United for Antony.

Ziyech has already met twice with Ajax in the last four days as he seeks a move away from London.

Chelsea are already eyeing replacements for the winger, having several bids rejected for Anthony Gordon already.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has also been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge, with further talks scheduled between the club and Barcelona.

Tuchel is a huge fan of the Gabon international, sharing a strong relationship with the forward after their time together at Borussia Dortmund.

Hakim Ziyech replacing Jorginho for Chelsea at Elland Road. (Alamy)

With several targets, Chelsea will no doubt have to let some of their current attacking options depart.

It remains to be seen whether Chelsea and Ajax can agree terms for the transfer of Ziyech, with the 29-year-old seeing his first team minutes reduced in recent seasons under Thomas Tuchel.

With just over a week left in the transfer window, the Blues will be looking to bring in reinforcements before the window slams shut.