Liverpool and Ajax are set to fight it out for the signature of Benfica winger Ola John in January according to reports in Portugal.
- By Michael Bell
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The Dutchman is out of favour at Benfica, and has only made two league appearances so far this season, leading to speculation of a January move.
Ajax failed in a bid for the ex-Twente star in the summer, after Benfica suffered a number of injuries, but Frank de Boer’s side are lining up another move in the winter.
According to Portuguese paper Record, they will be joined by Liverpool, with manager Brendan Rodgers reportedly keen to add to his attacking options.
Benifca originally paid €9 million for the talented 21-year-old, and John’s contract includes a €45 million buy out clause. However with John out of favour, Benfica may settle for a smaller fee or loan deal.
John himself will be keen to leave Portugal in order to gain first team football, and impress Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal with the World Cup next summer. With only one cap currently to his name, John will believe a string of good performances could lead to a spot on the plane to Brazil.
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