Ajax is actively pursuing a deadline-day loan deal for AS Monaco defender Thilo Kehrer to bolster the club’s defensive options before the winter transfer window closes, according to recent reports. Technical director Jordi Cruijff is leading negotiations with the French Ligue 1 side over a temporary arrangement for the 29-year-old German international.
Defensive Crisis Drives Urgent Pursuit
The discussions between Ajax and Monaco are progressing positively, with the defender emerging as a top candidate to strengthen manager Míchel Sánchez’s backline. At present, the Spanish head coach has only Aaron Bouwman as a natural right-footed central defender available in the squad, making defensive reinforcements an urgent priority ahead of the final hours of the transfer window.
Straight Loan Talks and European Pedigree
Negotiations center on a straight loan period without a purchase option, according to details reported by Sky Sports. Kehrer brings extensive European experience to Amsterdam, having progressed through the youth academies of VfB Stuttgart and Schalke 04 before earning a high-profile move to Paris Saint-Germain, where he made 128 appearances.
From London to Monaco and International Caps
In 2022, Kehrer transferred to West Ham United in the Premier League. The English club subsequently loaned him to AS Monaco in 2024 before making the transfer permanent later that year. On the international stage, the versatile defender has earned 28 caps for the German national team, featuring both as a central defender and occasionally as a right-back.
Winger Targets and the Deadline Clock
Alongside the pursuit of Kehrer, Ajax is also working to finalize deals for a new left winger to add further depth to the squad following links to Simon Adingra, according to reports from De Telegraaf and the Algemeen Dagblad. With multiple European leagues closing their windows, the Amsterdam club faces a race against time to complete the necessary paperwork.
Upcoming Fixtures and Final Confirmation
Ajax’s next official fixture will test their updated squad configuration as the second half of the domestic season intensifies. Supporters can monitor official club channels for final confirmation on deadline-day transactions before the window shuts.
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