Explained: Why Ajax See More Potential In Dies Janse Than Youri Baas

What is Ajax's best centre-back partnership?

During the summer transfer window, Youri Baas attracted interest from both FC Porto and Eintracht Frankfurt. Porto even reportedly made an offer for Baas, but the Portuguese giant failed to reach an agreement with Ajax, despite Francesco Farioli having been very keen on reuniting with the defender in Portugal.

Ajax were reportedly open to the idea of selling Baas if a suitable offer arrived, and one reason for that was Dies Janse. The defender enjoyed a very successful loan spell at FC Groningen last season and started 30 Eredivisie games for the club. 

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Ajax also brought Daley Blind back to the club, meaning Michel Sanchez has three left-footed centre-backs in the squad. Blind picked up an injury against Shelbourne FC and was sidelined for over two months, but returned to action against Sparta Rotterdam on Sunday, coming on as a substitute for the final minutes to help Ajax see out the game.

Janse has only started three Eredivisie games this season for Ajax, with Michel often opting to use Baas on the left side of central defence. In the minutes he has played, though, Janse has been very impressive. He has started Ajax's last two Eredivisie games and impressed on both occasions. Against Sparta Rotterdam, Janse and Baas played together, with Baas starting at left-back.

Why Ajax see more potential in Janse than Baas

Various reports over the last few months have claimed that Ajax see more potential in Janse than Baas. Ajax recently extended Janse's contract, keeping him at the Johan Cruijff ArenA until June 2030.

Speaking on De Telegraaf's Kick-Off podcast, Mike Verweij explained why Ajax have so much faith in Janse.

"I think Ajax ultimately sees more future in Janse," Verweij said when comparing Janse and Baas.

"You also have to look at which player is best to sell, and Janse has much more of a profile for the Premier League.

"He is big, strong, can play football well, build up play, and with Baas, I don't know if a Premier League club would be quick to buy him given his physique."

Verweij also spoke about whether Ajax would consider selling Baas in January.

"It depends a bit on Ajax's position," Verweij explained.

"They will put everything into the title, and it would be very strange to sell Baas during the winter break when you are fighting hard for it."

Míchel Sanchez Praises Thilo Kehrer And Dies Janse After Sparta Win, Reveals Most 'Complete' Ajax Centre-BackMichel Sanchez spoke about his central defenders after Ajax's win vs Sparta Rotterdam on Sunday.Ajax should listen to offers for Baas in the winter

Baas is a very good player. He is exceptional on the ball and is also versatile, as he can operate at left-back, as seen against Sparta. 

Ajax should listen to offers for Baas in the winter though, and should sell him if a suitable offer arrives which allows Ajax to strengthen other areas of the squad.

If Baas were to leave, Ajax still have two very good left-footed centre-back options in Blind and Janse. They have different skill sets. Both are good on the ball, although Blind is probably the better player in that regard, and Janse is a better dueller and more dominant defensively. 

Ajax need to improve their forward line. They need players with speed who can make runs in behind to help them on the counter-attack and also stretch opposition defences. If selling Baas allows Ajax to invest in a new winger who suits that profile, they should consider selling the defender.

That being said, if Baas does stay, he can play a crucial role in helping the Amsterdammers push for the title.

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