ARSENAL’s long-term transfer target Nicolas Tagliafico has reportedly told Ajax he wants a move to chase “bigger dreams” in a top league.
The Argentina ace has evolved into one of Europe’s best left-backs since arriving at the Johan Cruyff Arena in 2018.
Tagliafico has clocked up 38 appearances in all competitions for the Dutch champions this season, bagging five goals and seven assists in the process.
He shone in Ajax’s run to the semi-finals of the Champions League last year but now it seems he is ready to move on to pastures new.
The 27-year-old is thought to have made it clear to the Amsterdam big wigs that he wants to leave in the coming transfer window.
And in an interview with Argentinian radio station Continental, the Eredivisie ace fuelled further speculation of a summer switch.
He said: “It’s always been my goal to play in the best competitions, at a top club.
“Ajax is an amazing club, but the Eredivisie is not an amazing competition. One should always have bigger dreams.
“I’m still working on my fitness. I need to be as fit as possible in case I’ll move to a new club.
“The pre-season will start in August, so two more months. But if I’ll leave, it’s still uncertain.”
Last year the Gunners identified Tagliafico as a summer target but Ajax weren’t keen on losing another valuable asset after the exits of Matthijs de Ligt to Juventus and Frenkie De Jong to Barcelona.
Tagliafico’s deal in the Dutch capital expires in 2022 and reports suggest the club could push for a fee of around £30million.
The cash-strapped Gunners will be looking for a discounted price as they have been hit hard by the coronavirus crunch.
The Emirates’ already limited budget was further hit following the pandemic meaning the club may have to sacrifice at least one of four players including Alexandre Lacazette – to splash in the summer.
But Ajax chief Edwin van der Sar, recently warned that the club won’t be bullied into cut price deals.
Chelsea, Barcelona and PSG were all believed to have joined Arsenal in the race for Tagliafico’s signature.
And interest from the Nou Camp has particularly flattered the Argentinian.
He said: “I might be on their shortlist, but nothing concrete yet. I have to remain calm. If something is happening, I’ll speak to my agent.”
The Blues were thought to have eyed Tagliafico as an alternative to Ben Chilwell after Leicester initially slapped an £80million price tag on the England ace.
Frank Lampard is on the hunt for a replacement for Emerson in the next transfer window as Juventus manager Maurizio Sarri eyes a reunion with the Blues outcast.
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