Ajax buys left winger Hossam

01 June: After two days of speculation, Ajax confirmed today that they bought young Egyptian striker and left winger Ahmed Hossam from AA Ghent.

The 18-year old player had already signed a declaration of intent with Belgian champions Anderlecht, but changed his mind when Ajax knocked on his door last week. Anderlecht reacted furiously and stated that they didn't want the gifted striker anymore. Next to Anderlecht, Ajax notes that also Udinese, Vicenza, Southampton and Sunderland were interested.

After Ibrahimovic, Hossam is the second striker Ajax has purchased for the upcomming season. And the second tall striker. Whereas Ibrahimovic is 1.93 meters tall, Hossam is also big, at 1.90 meters.

Technical manager Leo Beenhakker is very pleased with the purchase of Hossam: "Everyone is impressed of him. The scouts, the technical staff, everyone who have seen him play thinks he is a great talent. He is only 18 years old and is already in the A-selection of the Egyptian National Team, where he is also an important player."

Although Ajax never say anything about the price they pay for players, the amount is rumored to be in the range of 10 million guilders ($4 million). (BV)

Source: Ajax.nl