Ajax tried to sign Barcelona midfielder on loan but Flick blocked the move | OneFootball

According to a recent report from SPORT, Dutch giants Ajax were keen on signing Barcelona midfielder Marc Bernal on loan during the January transfer window, but the club decided against the move.

Bernal is currently considered one of the most exciting young midfielders in world football. 

Since returning to action, however, the teenager has already begun to show the physical power, composure, and intelligence that made him such a standout prospect in the first place.

Barcelona have been cautious with his reintegration. In fact, Hansi Flick has deliberately managed Bernal’s minutes, focusing on long-term development rather than short-term gains. 

That careful approach naturally fuelled speculation about a possible loan move in January, with the idea that regular minutes elsewhere could help him regain rhythm and confidence.

Ajax were interested

As such, interest quickly grew across Europe. Several clubs monitored his situation closely, but Ajax emerged as the most serious suitor. 

The Eredivisie side believe Bernal fits perfectly into their traditional midfield profile and were convinced he could make an immediate impact. 

Ajax were interested in Marc Bernal. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Despite that interest, Barcelona’s message has remained consistent. The club see Bernal as a long-term pillar of their midfield, someone who could occupy the central role for the next decade. 

While the sporting management did briefly consider the benefits of a temporary move due to his need for game time, the idea was ultimately rejected.

Flick against the move

In that regard, Flick played a decisive role, as he does not want to lose daily control of Bernal’s progress and believes his development is best served within the club’s environment. 

As a result, all external approaches were turned down.

Ajax’s interest was further strengthened by the imminent arrival of Jordi Cruyff as their new sporting director on February 1. 

Cruyff is very familiar with Bernal’s profile and believes he would have been an undisputed starter in Amsterdam. Even so, Barcelona never considered an exit.