Ajax's bold €10m gamble on Caio Henrique to chase immediate title

Ajax are set to sign Brazilian left‑back Caio Henrique from AS Monaco for a minimum fee of ten million euros, according to the Algemeen Dagblad. Technical director Jordi Cruijff sees the move as part of a plan to assemble a championship‑worthy squad immediately.

Henrique is 28 years old and will become the first major summer acquisition under Cruijff’s tenure. The contract is reported to run until the middle of 2030.

The signing addresses Ajax’s left‑back shortage after Owen Wijndal was deemed surplus and after Takehiro Tomiyasu and Oleksandr Zinchenko departed. Lucas Rosa has been the only recent option on the left side.

Former Monaco coach Niko Kovac praised Henrique. He said, “He is an excellent example of a good professional. He works hard and is always involved. He is young, but also a real example for younger players.”

Ajax’s new trainer Míchel intends to build the team patiently with varied patterns. The AD notes that Henrique’s technique and passing ability resemble former Ajax favourite Maxwell, allowing him to escape tight situations.

Henrique suffered a serious cruciate ligament injury in September 2023. Critics argue that the former midfielder, who never excelled in pure defending, may not become faster, stronger, fitter, or more agile.

Jordi Cruijff defended the deal. He said, “It is the expensive, risky investment that fits a technical director who wants to win the league immediately.”

Ajax hope Henrique will solidify the left flank as the season approaches.