Rafael van der Vaart sees the ideal addition for Ajax: 'Perhaps even better than Mika Godts'

Ajax are now in the market for a successor to the departed Mika Godts. Among the names being mentioned for the left-wing position is Noa Lang. Rafael van der Vaart responded to the rumour on Sportnieuws.

The former Netherlands international would certainly welcome the transfer. "That would be absolutely fantastic. Also for the media, for football lovers. Things will start happening again that you do not expect."

Van der Vaart also believes a move to Ajax would suit the attacker. "Because he can really let himself go in the Dutch league," he says. "And at his club as well, of course. He has never made any secret of the fact that Ajax are his club."

At 43, the former footballer feels Lang would be an immediate asset in Amsterdam, but says he would need the right guidance. "You have to put someone next to him who gives him a little cuddle now and then and tickles him under his balls, like: ‘Mate, how good are you.’ Then you really have a world-class player on your hands."

Still, Van der Vaart believes there is more to Lang than the image he projects. "He acts tough, but he seems to me an enormously sweet lad," Van der Vaart thinks. "If you give him confidence and believe in him, he can show things that may even be better than Godts," he concludes.

Lang has been linked with Ajax, who have also been offered Leon Bailey (Aston Villa). Technical director Jordi Cruyff appears to be exploring several options for the left-wing position.

Ajax are not alone in the race for the 27-year-old attacker's signature. According to transfer journalist Florian Plettenberg, Galatasaray are in talks with Lang. Napoli are in any case open to a permanent departure for the attacker.