The Sparta Rotterdam shot-stopper was the subject of a wide-spreading transfer rumour last week linking him with the Dutch giants and he has confirmed that there have been talks between both clubs
Maduka Okoye could be the first goalkeeper to play for Ajax Amsterdam as the Eredivisie champions have kicked off moves to sign the Super Eagles youngster from Sparta Rotterdam.
Okoye has confirmed that rumours linking him to Ajax are indeed true as the Dutch giants have made contact and enquired about the availability of the five-time Nigerian international.
It is not difficult to see why Okoye has suddenly become the toast of the former European champions in only his first year in the Netherlands.
The German-born goalie’s talents have catapulted him from the depths of the German third division to the number one pair of gloves for both Sparta Rotterdam and three-time African champions, Nigeria.
Confirming the reports, Okoye highlights that Ajax interest is a reward for his hard work and top performances for Sparta.
“It was all swift, but it is true,” Okoye told Transfermarkt.
“Ajax has phoned Sparta but not me or my agency Prime11. I haven’t talked to them directly.”
Ajax boss Edwin van der Sar — one of the best goalkeepers in history — has phoned Sparta’s sporting director Henk van Stee.
“I have a very close relationship with van Stee and my coach Henk Fraser, and I am sure that should it become concrete with Ajax, I will be the first to find out about it,” Okoye said.
“A rumour of this magnitude reflects my current performances. I give everything in training and during games. I do it for the team, the fans, and the people around me.
“We have one common goal: to stay in the league. And should I benefit from my performances, then that is a bonus.”
However, the youngster would only consider signing for Ajax if the Eredivisie leaders can allow him to stay a year or two at Sparta where he is already guaranteed regular playing time.
Okoye added: “I think it would be a good idea for a big team to buy me but then loan me back for one or two years to Sparta.
“That way Sparta could earn some money, and I can continue to play regularly, to develop my game.
“When the new club is ready to hand me the number one spot, then I could move there—similar to how Chelsea has done it in the past,” the shot-stopper concluded.
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