Former Barnsley and Coventry City winger Ryan Kent is being linked with a sensational move to Dutch giants Ajax after his contract with Fenerbahce was terminated by mutual consent.
Despite rumours of a reunion with Paul Heckingbottom at Preston North End, Kent’s future remains uncertain, with clubs across Europe and beyond reportedly monitoring his situation. Leeds United also covets him – reports from Turkey had suggested that they had submitted a £2.5 million bid to Fenerbahce in an attempt to bring the attacker back to England just a year after his move to the Turkish capital.
This wasn’t the first time Daniel Farke had shown interest in the 27-year-old. As reported by TEAMtalk last November, Leeds were exploring the possibility of signing Kent as a potential replacement for Wilfried Gnonto, who had been eager to leave Elland Road at the time.
Who is Ryan Kent?
The 28-year-old has become one of the most high-profile free agents on the market. Kent’s brief stint in Turkey ended with just one goal and two assists in 19 appearances, raising questions about his match fitness. However, his natural athleticism and two-footed ability continue to make him an attractive prospect.
“Ryan Kent is a real opportunity. He is a really good player. A lot of speed, quite two-footed and a hard kick. His contract with Fenerbahce has been terminated,” said the editor-in-chief of Dutch outlet Voetbalprimeur. “He is an incredibly fit guy by nature, although I understand that that is something different than match rhythm.”
In addition to Ajax, Kent has also been linked with clubs in Saudi Arabia and League One side Leyton Orient. Preston North End emerged as a potential destination, with Kent’s former Barnsley boss Heckingbottom now managing the Lilywhites. Sheffield United were also reported to be in the mix last year before Kent made his ill-fated move to Turkey.
Despite his recent struggles, Kent’s reputation as a quick and creative attacker has kept him in the spotlight. Ajax, known for their development of technically gifted players, could provide an ideal platform for Kent to revitalise his career. As a free agent, he represents a low-risk, high-reward option for any club willing to invest in his talents.
Writer’s View
Ryan Kent’s career trajectory has been unpredictable, but his potential to perform at the highest level remains undeniable. A move to Ajax would be a remarkable opportunity for Kent to prove his doubters wrong and regain his form. However, concerns over match fitness may lead clubs like Preston or Leeds to view him as a more realistic target.
Editor In Chief
