Erik ten Hag appears to be heading to Manchester United as the club’s next permanent manager.
ESPN Netherlands report United do not wish to wait any longer and will pay the release clause in Ten Hag’s contract.
The Telegraph report United aim to make a formal announcement next week, although the Dutchman will complete the season at Ajax.
The Dutch side are still competing to win the domestic double in the Netherlands over the next few weeks.
Dutch legend Marco van Basten has acknowledged Ten Hag’s impending exit to Manchester United.
Speaking to Ziggo Sport, reported by FC Update, Van Basten said: “We are already losing so much in the Netherlands. The competition is already being milked out and getting smaller.
“That is a shame. I think you are now also losing your best coach.”
Asked about Ajax’s next manager, Van Basten responded jokily, “They have my number.”
Ajax are unlikely to turn to Van Basten, who managed the club briefly before, resigning in 2009, and he has not returned to management since.
The former international striker’s comments on Ten Hag to United are understandable from a Dutch perspective, to express disappointment at losing such a talented coach.
The comments also underline that this appears to be ‘one way traffic’ at this point, with Ten Hag set for United with no twist in the tale expected.
United have set their sights on him and appear to have got him. It’s now only a matter of time before the Dutchman is in the home dugout at Old Trafford.
