Arsenal are among a host of European and Premier League clubs keeping a close eye on promising Ajax midfielder Jorthy Mokio, according to CaughtOffside.
The North London side, along with Barcelona, Real Madrid and Chelsea, are believed to be closely monitoring the 17-year-old starlet, regarded as ‘one of Europe’s next top midfielders’.
Mokio has caught the eye with his rapid development at Ajax, whom he joined from Belgian club Gent only last year, making 22 senior appearances and scoring two goals to date.
The Belgium U21 international is valued for his versatility, as he is comfortable operating at both defensive midfield and centre-back, and is calm in possession, which allows him to play in a number of roles across the field.
Ajax are keen to keep hold of Mokio for the foreseeable future and are in a strong negotiating position, with his contract running until June 2027.
Arsenal Keeping Tabs on Jorthy Mokio
According to CaughtOffside, while Ajax have no pressing need to sell Mokio soon, reports suggest that an offer worth around €25m–€30m (£21m–£26m) could make them reconsider their stance.
Mokio’s representatives insist they will be prioritising the best project for the 17-year-old’s development, with interest from both La Liga and Premier League clubs emerging.
The Belgian midfielder has made nine starts for Ajax to date, including four in the Europa League last term, where he helped the Eredivisie club reach the Round of 16.
He became the fourth-youngest player to feature for Ajax in the Eredivisie last term, only behind Ryan Gravenberch, Clarence Seedorf and Jorrel Hato.
Hato made his move from Ajax this summer, joining Chelsea on a seven-year contract in a deal worth £38.5m.
GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Mokio has made four first-team appearances for Ajax this season.
Arsenal’s summer business saw Mikel Arteta’s side spend £255m on new arrivals, including midfielders Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard.
The Gunners also welcomed Viktor Gyokeres, Eberechi Eze, Noni Madueke, Cristhian Mosquera, Piero Hincapie and Kepa Arrizabalaga, finishing the window as the second-highest spending club in Europe.
