Ajax set for shock swoop after 'reaching agreement' with Al Hilal's Marcos Leonardo

Marcos Leonardo, 23, joined Saudi Professional League side Al Hilal in 2023 and has scored 48 goals in 82 appearances for the club, but is reportedly looking to return to Europe.

After rumours spread of Ajax having started negotiating for the Brazilian striker, De Telegraaf reported on Sunday that the club and player have broadly reached an agreement on a contract until 2030. The Dutch newspaper reported that Ajax will continue negotiations with Al Hilal and that the coming days will be "crucial".

Marcos Leonardo's market value is set at €19.6 million according to Flashscore. The Brazilian has been convinced to move to Ajax by technical director Jordi Cruyff and has acknowledged that he'll earn less than he currently does in Saudi Arabia.

The 23-year-old Brazilian, who's also gathered interest from the likes of Porto and Fiorentina, joined Al Hilal from Benfica for €40 million in 2023, just nine months after moving from Santos to Benfica for €22 million.

Rebuild mode

Ajax, who are undergoing a rebuild under Jordi Cruyff, are also working on the transfer of Morocco standout Azzedine Ounahi, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Amsterdam club, who acquired Caio Henrique from Monaco and Daley Blind on a free transfer earlier in July, gained funds and salary room after selling Sean Steur to Newcastle United for €27 million and Chuba Akpom to Ipswich Town for close to €10 million, while Branco van den Boomen and Wout Weghorst left on free transfers.