At just 20 years of age, Davy Klaassen has made a name for himself in the Dutch Eredivisie as he has scored 6 goals in 10 outings for Ajax. This has been his best return so far, ever since breaking into the first-team setup back in 2011 where he scored on his league debut in the 3-0 win against NEC Nijmegen. Since making that bright start to his first-team career, he has been left in the background somewhat as his game time has been restricted.
This has however been his breakthrough season and he has managed to make a mark on the team this time around. He is creating waves across Europe, where several top clubs are known to be sitting up and taking notice of him. His impressive performances have also seen him being widely tipped to break into Holland’s national team for the World Cup in Brazil next year. English league leaders Arsenal are reported to be scouting him intensely.
Klaassen is originally a central midfielder, but his versatility allows him to play in a more advanced role as a second striker. His traits and skills, coupled with his Dutch origins have understandably drawn comparisons with former Arsenal and Holland legend Dennis Bergkamp. He was the ideal No. 10 who would link up effortlessly with the main striker, as he did with Thierry Henry back in the day. Bergkamp was one of Arsenal’s best ever attackers and was influential in the seasons of 1999-2000 and 2003-2004 where they achieved the league and cup double and also the enviable ‘Invincibles’ tag.
Post his retirement in 2006, Bergkamp returned to his native country and he is now working behind the scenes at former club Ajax, where as the Daily Mail report, he is overseeing Klaassen’s progress closely. The Gunners have received glowing reports from their trusted scouts and it is understood that manager Arsene Wenger has earmarked him as a possible long-term acquisition.
With Arsenal flooded with offensive options at the moment and the likes of Lukas Podolski and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain yet to return, an immediate bid does not seem likely, however he might want to snap Klaasnen up early before his price escalates.