Bayern Munich director Hasan Salihamidzic has revealed that the club are on the verge of securing the signature of Noussair Mazraoui.
The 24-year-old has been in impressive form for Ajax during the 2021-22 campaign, scoring five times and registering four assists in 33 appearances in all competitions.
The Morocco international will leave the Amsterdam giants on a free transfer at the end of June, though, and there has been a host of speculation surrounding his future in recent months.
At one stage, Barcelona appeared to lead the race for the right-back, while Manchester United have also recently been credited with an interest in his services.
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However, Salihamidzic has revealed that Bayern are now close to finalising a deal with the defender, who will move to Allianz Arena on a free transfer.
"Mazraoui has decided to join us. We're in the final stages, it's looking good - he was wanted by top European clubs," Salihamidzic told journalist Philipp Kessler.
According to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Mazraoui has already undergone a medical with the Bundesliga champions, and an official announcement is due to arrive "soon".
The defender has spent his entire professional career with Ajax, representing the Dutch outfit on 135 occasions in all competitions, contributing 10 goals and nine assists in the process.
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"The project, the contract, the name of the club, it's all very important. There are two months left and in these two months my decision will be made," Mazraoui told NOS earlier this year when questioned on his future. "My example? Dani Alves, no doubt."
Barcelona were believed to be in pole position for a long period, but Sergino Dest is now set to stay at Camp Nou, while Sergi Roberto is believed to be on the verge of signing a new contract.
There were also claims that incoming Man United head coach Erik ten Hag had made a late attempt to convince Mazraoui to move to Old Trafford, having starred under the Dutchman at Ajax.
However, the right-back is heading for Allianz Arena, and he will be hoping to add to the two league titles and two Dutch Cups that he has won during his time in Amsterdam.
Ajax would win a 36th Eredivisie title, meanwhile, if they beat Heerenveen on Wednesday night, with the club currently four points clear of second-placed PSV Eindhoven with two games left.
Matt Law
