Youri Baas wants Barcelona move, but Ajax’s €34m asking price threatens to derail January deal
Barcelona have been forced to rethink their search for defensive reinforcements ahead of January as Ajax demand no less than 34 million Euros for 23-year-old defender Youri Baas according to reports from De Telegraaf and Diario Sport.
As Hansi Flick puts pressure on sporting director Deco to sign fresh faces in the winter, Baas had been one of the most promising cheap options on the club’s short list. However, Ajax have no plans to make things easy for Barcelona as Baas has a contract remaining until June 2028.
Why Barcelona want him and why he wants to join
Baas represents a huge tick for Flick’s depleted defensive options. His natural left footed centre back can easily step up to play left-back. The Dutchman is also highly valued by Barca’s recruitment team as he remains cool under pressure, tactically aware and plays with excellent ball distribution. In 17 appearance during the 2026/27 season he has scored two goals with an assist.
He hasn’t hidden his excitement about joining Barcelona either. During his post match interview following Ajax’s UEFA Conference League game against FC Midtjylland, the defender hinted at the Blaugrana interest.
"I think it's the biggest club in the world. It's a huge compliment. I have no idea where the rumours come from, but I have seen something. It's nice, of course."
Dilemma for Barca
Usually if the player is happy to move then Deco has an advantage. However, spending 34 million Euros in the middle of the season won’t be an option for Barca due to their tight salary restrictions in La Liga. If they do not want to sell one of their main players in the winter window such as disfavored left back Alejandro Balde then spending 100% more on a young Eredivisie defender is impossible.
If Ajax do not bend their stance before January 1st then Barcelona will be left with little choice but to move on. They will look to sign younger options such as Ruud Nijstad (FC Twente) and Vitor Reis (Manchester City). Or they will throw everything they have at signing a superstar such as Alessandro Bastoni (Inter Milan).
