From Holland: Manchester City ‘abandon’ pursuit of Ajax midfield sensation

Manchester City have ‘abandoned’ plans to sign Ajax teenager Gabriel Misehouy on a free transfer.

The 18-year-old is available on a free transfer this summer after stalling contract extension talks with Ajax, where the teenage midfield has been developing since 2021, coming through the Dutch club’s academy ranks.

Misehouy’s ongoing contract saga had led to a number of European clubs registering an interest in signing the Dutchman, with the City Football Academy having a reputation for signing the best young talent from across the globe.

The City Football Group signed River Plate midfielder Claudio Echeverri for an initial £12.5 million in January, and have also recently completed a record-breaking deal for 14-year-old American star Cavan Sullivan.

Manchester City’s Under-18s recently won the FA Youth Cup, with the club targeting success in both the Premier League 2 and Under-18s Premier League, alongside the first-team winning four consecutive league titles.

Additions are expected to the Blues’ youth ranks this summer, however they will reportedly not include Ajax prodigy Misehouy, after Manchester City ‘abandoned’ plans to sign the 18-year-old due to ‘game playing’ by the agents of the teen.

Sport Witness relay claims from Dutch journalist Henk Spaan, who reveals that Etihad bosses have ended their pursuit of the midfielder despite initially being ‘keen’ to complete a deal.

“Manchester City came but dropped out,” wrote the journalist.

Misehouy failed to make an Eredivisie appearance this season but did register 10 direct goal involvements in 13 Keuken Kampioen Divisie showings.

The Ajax Under-21 star can play throughout the midfield, and has also previously featured at left wing for the Dutch club.