Six Things You Need To Know About Hakim Ziyech As Chelsea Close In On Signing The Playmaker

David Tully

4 years ago

Tags: Ajax, Arsenal, Chelsea, Hakim Ziyech, Manchester United

Considering it is almost two weeks after the transfer deadline, Chelsea’s reported €45m (£38m) move for Ajax midfielder Hakim Ziyech is surprising, to say the least.

Ajax were reportedly reluctant to let the player leave in the January transfer window but they appear to be happy to let him go at the end of the season.

Ziyech has been linked with a number of Premier League teams over the past twelve months following his performances both in the Eredivisie and the Champions League, but nobody has decided to take a chance on him up until now.

Press the “next page” as we look at six things Chelsea fans need to know about the 26-year-old ahead of his possible move to Stamford Bridge.

He has an impressive goal and assist record

During his time at Ajax, the Moroccan international has scored 48 goals and provided 82 assists in 159 appearances for the Dutch club.

He averages a goal contribution every 1.2 games, which should help manager Frank Lampard bring some more creativity to his side.

Ziyech likes to shoot (a lot)

Despite not being a striker, the midfielder averages 4.66 shots per 90 minutes, which is more than the likes of Robert Lewandowski and Sergio Aguero.

Ziyech has scored just nine goals this season but has managed to amass 124 shots. Fans should brace themselves for a number of balls flying into the Shed End.

He was born in the Netherlands

Despite playing for Morocco at international level, Ziyech was born in Holland and made his way through the venerated Dutch youth system.

He played for the Netherlands up until Under 21 level before switching allegiance in 2015. He now has 32 caps for his country.

Ziyech could have been signed for a lot less last summer

Before the Moroccan signed a new three-year contract back in August last year, it was widely reported that he had a release clause.

Some reports had the buyout fee as low as €25m, which led to the likes of Arsenal and Manchester United taking a look at the midfielder.

He likes to play from the right

Although Ziyech can play as a number ten, the playmaker generally likes to drift in off the right flank onto his stronger left foot.

He has excellent delivery into the box, but often uses openings to take shots at goal.

Ziyech is a set-piece specialist

The winger is an expert at free-kicks, which Chelsea supporters saw first hand when he caught out Kepa Arrizabalaga in the 4-4 draw earlier this season.

His attempt hit the post before bouncing off the Blues keeper and over the line.