Champions League
PSV eyes Ajax’s Year Baas as Daley Blind returns, draws European interest
PSV have entered the conversation around Youri Baas, the Ajax Speler van het Jaar, as Daley Blind’s arrival threatens his place in the starting line‑up. The Dutch defender is linked with Eintracht Frankfurt and Bologna, while PSV’s exact offer remains unconfirmed.
Youri Baas earned the Speler van het Jaar award at Ajax last season, a recognition of his defensive consistency. The arrival of Daley Blind has intensified competition for central‑defence spots, putting Baas’s starting berth at risk. Baas remains a key figure despite the challenge.
Transfer rumours and PSV interest
Media reports suggest that Eintracht Frankfurt and Bologna are monitoring Baas’s situation. Both clubs have expressed interest, yet no concrete bid has emerged. PSV’s name also surfaces in the discussion, though the club has so far spoken only cautiously.
Columnist’s critique of the situation
Columnist Henk Spaan of Het Parool wrote after Ajax’s 5‑3 victory over FC Sion from Zwitserland: “Dat Baas weg zou moeten bij Ajax is een van de onrechtvaardigheden in het voetbal, waar prestaties en talent regelmatig niet ter zake doen,” he argued.
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Spaan continued, noting that in paid football “finances play a leading role” and that Jordi Cruijff is expected to deliver Champions League qualification for Ajax. He warned that Baas could be denied a reward for a strong season in what he called a “worthless team”.
He later asked, “Hoeveel zou PSV willen betalen?” suggesting that a €20 million fee would be excessive for Bologna. Baas is contracted with Ajax until mid‑2029, and Transfermarkt values him at twenty million euros.
Views from former players and journalists
Former midfielder Anco Jansen told , “Youri Baas to PSV would not be a crazy idea. He was at times last year the only stronghold, even captaining the side, and fits perfectly with Peter Bosz.”
Marciano Vink added, “What I really wonder is what will happen to Baas, who has kept Ajax afloat in recent seasons.” Journalist Daan Sutorius of Het Parool observed, “Daley Blind seems to have won the competition, but they could also play together in the centre, as Míchel Sánchez suggests. Baas may indeed leave if he feels he will not play.”