In a development that has ignited the football world, Ajax has officially formalized the acquisition of the budding talent Carlos Borges from Manchester City. The vibrant young forward left an indelible mark on City’s youth ranks during the preceding season, emerging as a standout performer within the EDS. His remarkable feat of finding the net 29 times en route to clinching the Premier League 2 championship, coupled with a staggering four-goal spectacle against archrivals Manchester United, underscored his potential.
Ajax’s astute decision to secure the 19-year-old’s services has been sealed with an initial transfer fee of €14 million, and the potential for this figure to surge to an impressive €19 million (£17.2 million).
City, adept at safeguarding their investment in emerging talents, have yet again exhibited their foresight. Within Borges’ contract, they have included a prescient buy-back clause, ensuring a measure of control over his future. A 20 per cent sell-on clause further underscores the club’s strategic approach to player transfers.
This strategic maneuver contributes to the substantial sum of over £50 million earned by the Blues through the transfer sales of EDS prospects, an astonishing achievement, especially considering the ongoing summer transfers. The exits of James Trafford, Shea Charles, and Ade Mebude further fortified the club’s financial gains.
A pivotal moment in Borges’ burgeoning career has arrived with the official confirmation of his transfer to Ajax. Renowned for his prowess on the pitch, the Portuguese sensation will henceforth adopt the moniker “Forbs” as he graces the football arenas of Amsterdam. The terms of his commitment to the Dutch football giants extend over a five-year period, tethering him to the club until 2028.
Notably, his journey to Ajax’s embrace encountered an intriguing twist, as the initial path led to a potential stint with Premier League contenders West Ham United. Yet, Ajax’s swift and decisive intervention allowed them to secure the promising talent’s signature.
Reflecting on his trajectory, Borges conveyed, “I was in Portugal when I was getting told that Ajax wanted me. They explained their project and how I would fit in. That’s what you want to hear as a player; I knew this was the right move for me.”
Sven Mislintat, the esteemed director of football at Ajax, offered insights into the ardent competition to secure Borges’ services. Revealing that several suitors, including a notable Premier League contender, vied for his signature, Mislintat illuminated the factors that set Ajax apart. “Carlos Borges is a fantastic boy,” he declared, encapsulating the excitement surrounding the young athlete’s arrival.
Furthermore, he praised Borges’ remarkable speed, predicting that he would soon emerge as one of the Eredivisie’s fastest players. Mislintat’s enthusiasm was palpable as he expressed his contentment with the new addition to Ajax’s roster, accentuating the club’s continued commitment to nurturing exceptional talent.
