De Jong seemed destined for Manchester City in 2019. The Dutch midfielder had his mind fixed on Pep Guardiola's revolution, admitting: " I spoke with Guardiola about a move to Man City". However, Blaugrana casually joined the fray at the last minute and altered the cycle of karma.
The volte-face wasn't much of a surprise. Although separate entities, with distinct cultures and identities, Ajax and Barca share an outlook, close bond and modus operandi that goes beyond the pitch. By moving to Catalonia, De Jong only re-ignited a long tradition, trailing the illustrious path of Cruyff, Ronald Koeman, Patrick Kluivert, Marc Overmars, Ronald and Frank de Boer among others.
There is believed to be a mutual arrangement for more youngsters to follow. According to reports, the deal would see Barcelona given the priority to sign talents who have progressed at Amsterdam and, in return, the Dutch club would receive a number of young prospects who would help them in Eredivisie.
If this holds water, then Ajax could potentially become Barca's feeder. Five youngsters seem set to climb the ladder.
1 - Sergiño Dest (Right-back, 19)
Dest is an unusual breed of modern full-backs. In only his first season for Ajax, the 19-year-old exhibited exceptional traits way beyond his age. He is comfortable on either flank and on both feet, capable of quickly joining the attack. The youngster models his game after Dani Alves, effectively acting as a playmaker from the right, roaming forward at every opportunity. He made 35 appearances in all competitions, scoring twice.
Dest is in hot demand across Europe
Born and raised in Almere in the Netherlands to a Dutch mother and a Surinamese-American father, Dest opted for the Stars and Stripes at international level. He joined Ajax aged 12 progressing superbly through the ranks. The American needed only one year with the reserves to gatecrash Erik Ten Hag's squad.
He could be on the move once again. Barcelona is among a host of top European sides offering a ride. Nélson Semedo seems headed for the exit door while Sergi Roberto has never really convinced in that position, paving way for Dest. The 19-year-old's contract runs till the summer of 2022. Being the club's Talent of the Year, he won't go cheaply.
2 - Ryan Gravenberch (Central midfield, 18)
The 18-year-old has been compared to Paul Pogba
Gravenberch shuttled between Ajax's first and reserve teams last term. He made sure he was sorely missed. In five Eredivisie starts, the teenager found the target twice. He produced seven efforts for Jong Ajax [the youth team] in 17 appearances, confirming his penchant for goals.
Over 6ft tall with a relatively slight frame, Gravenberch is strong and physical with the ball at his feet. He is an amazing dribbler and knows how to get past opponents with ease. Although simple, the Dutch youngster knows when to turn on the style. He also possesses extra fuel to burn, going on long strides to break away from markers.
Ten years ago, Gravenberch joined the Jews [Ajax's nickname] to follow his dream. Aged 16 in September 2018, he made his first debut, a 3-0 loss against PSV, becoming the youngest for Ajax. A few days later he scored in the cup game versus HVV Te Werve, also making him the youngest to do so for the club.
3 - Antony (Striker, 20)
Although yet to kick a ball for Ajax since his £13m switch from Sao Paulo in February, Antony is very much highly rated across Europe. A Brazil Under-23 international, he put pen to paper on a five-year deal that would keep him in Amsterdam until 2025. However, it is very unlikely that he would see out his contract owing to his prospect.
Antony joined Ajax from Sao Paulo
After coming through Sao Paulo's fabled youth system, Antony made his Brazilian league debut in 2018, earning three other appearances. With regular first-team football last term, the 20-year-old's game matured, striking four times and assisting six in 29 appearances. He has five goals in nine games for Selecao U23s.
At 5ft 9. Antony is a typical South American winger: a natural dribbler, quick, skilful and exciting to watch. More comfortable on the right, he takes on defenders with his blistering pace before cutting in on his left foot. He is technically gifted with a vision to make intelligent passes. Considering Luis Suarez, Antoine Griezmann and Lionel Messi are approaching their twilight, Antony could lead the next generation.
4 - Perr Schuurs (Centre-back, 20)
Barcelona's search for Gerard Pique's long-term successor continues this summer. At 33 and after 12 interrupted years, a decline is imminent. Despite some sturdy displays, the Catalans require suitable replacement to carry on his legacy. Although unfancied, a 20-year-old in Amsterdam could just be the solution.
Schuurs joined Ajax in 2018
Previously scouted by Liverpool, Schuurs joined Ajax from Fortuna Sittard, who he captained at just 17, in January 2018. His move coincided with Matthijs de Ligt's imminent departure to Juventus. Ajax spent big that summer on three central defenders, Edson Álvarez, Lisandro Martinez and Kik Pierie. However, it is the unheralded Schuurs that has shown more promise.
Blessed with technical ability, calmness and a tendency to prioritise ball retention, Schuur ticks all the boxes for a ball-playing side like Barca. He has an excellent range of passes and is also partial to a thunderous goal from distance. Nonetheless, the young Dutchman isn't afraid to get dirty.
5 - Brian Brobbey (Striker, 18)
Brobbey has reportedly parted ways with Ajax after both parties failed to reach an agreement over a new deal. The teenage forward joined the club as an eight-year-old in 2010, showing so much promise. If this is true, then Barcelona should pounce.
Real Madrid is reportedly monitoring Brobbery's contract situation at Ajax
Born in Amsterdam to Ghanaian parents, Brobbery has developed a burgeoning reputation as a predator. He is an ideal target man with the body fray of a tank. His physical strength gives him an edge in personal duels and posses the legs to drive after winning possession.
Brobbery's goal return is frightening. He completely decimated his opponents in Ajax U17 (26 goals in 24 matches) and Ajax U19 (42 goals in 49 matches). For Jong, he buried seven efforts with an assist in 13 matches. Representing the Netherlands at various youth levels, the 18-year-old struck 25 times in 35 games.
Which of these lads would you love at Camp Nou? Which better known Ajax player would you welcome at Barca? Share your thoughts in the comments or in the blogs!
