Ajax is reportedly interested in acquiring Ko Itakura, a 28-year-old Japanese international and central defender from Borussia Mönchengladbach, who is capable of playing both left and right central defense. The Dutch club aims to secure his transfer for a fee ranging between 8 and 9 million euros. It is believed that a personal agreement is likely, as Ajax's director of football, Marijn Beuker, has already made initial arrangements during his visit to Osaka around the Japan-Indonesia international match. Itakura is understood to be eager to join Ajax. This pursuit of Itakura follows Ajax's recent gain of 43 million euros from the sale of Jorrel Hato to Chelsea, a move deemed necessary due to Ajax's financial situation and the need to strengthen their squad under coach John Heitinga. Itakura's contract with the German club is valid until June 2026, and his current market value is estimated by Transfermarkt at €12 million. Additionally, several other clubs, including Eintracht Frankfurt and PSV, have reportedly shown interest in the defender.