Ajax did 'everything possible' to prevent Erik ten Hag leaving

Ajax technical manager Gerry Hamstra has insisted that the club have done 'everything possible' to prevent Erik ten Hag leaving the Amsterdam Arena.

Ten Hag has proved to be an inspired appointment since taking over De Godenzonen in 2017. During his time at the club, Ajax have won a pair of domestic doubles and also went within a kick of reaching the Champions League final in 2019.

As reported by 90min this week, Ten Hag has agreed a deal to take over at Manchester United at the end of the season and his appointment is set to be confirmed imminently.

Speaking before the Dutch Cup final on Sunday, which Ajax lost 2-1 to rivals PSV Eindhoven, Hamstra confirmed there was interest in his head coach but revealed that the club had pulled out all the stops to keep him.

"There is interest for Erik ten Hag, that is normal. He has done fantastic," he said.

"We did everything possible [to keep him at Ajax]. We were very busy with that.

"He reacted that he is focusing on Ajax now. We are preparing for two scenarios: Ten Hag might stay or might leave."

90min understands that despite Hamstra's comments, Ten Hag has indeed agreed to join United. The Dutchman will arrive on a three-year contract with the option for a fourth, and will be consulted on the majority of decisions the club makes.

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