Chelsea want Ajax superstar Hakim Ziyech to bolster their midfield

Chelsea have jumped ahead of their rivals Manchester United in the race to sign Ajax attacking midfielder Hakim Ziyech. 

The 26-year-old attracted a host of suitors in the summer on the back of some impressive displays in the Dutch side's run to the Champions League semi-finals last year. 

Despite the fact that the Moroccan international has signed a new contract until 2022 earlier this season which removed a £25 million release clause, Ziyech has been told by the Dutch giants that he can move if the price is right. 

The Moroccan international, as well as Leicester full-back Ben Chilwell, have been identified as priority signings for Chelsea boss Frank Lampard as per reports as he eyes a massive spending spree in the summer. 

However, the Blues will face a battle for Ziyech's signature, with both Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain also thought to be keen on the attacking midfielder.  

The creative midfielder is expected to cost close to £42.5million and could prove to be a bargain for that price. 

He is also pretty versatile being capable of playing in the number ten and number eight roles as well as on the flanks. 

The flamboyant midfielder has also been linked with a move to Arsenal in the past and even described the Emirates as his dream destination. 

In an old Q&A video with former Ajax teammate Justin Kluivert, Ziyech was asked which clubs he'd like to play for in the future. 

He said: "Well, I have two clubs. They are Arsenal and Barcelona. 

"That is my ultimate dream." 

Ziyech has scored eight goals and provided 18 assists in all competitions this season. He impressed again in the Champions League, facing off against Chelsea twice in the group stage. 

Frank Lampard has been desperate to bring in some attacking prowess to his side in the January window. 

His side are fourth in the Premier League but their recent form has been pretty poor as the manager also bemoaned his side's inability to finish games off. 

Chelsea have a big game against Leicester city in the weekend and could be boosted with the news of Tammy Abraham likely to become fit.

Featured Image Credits - The Daily Mail