Nicolas Tagliafico’s agent has confirmed that they’ve decided to turn down a contract extension from Ajax, as the player hopes he’ll be able to take the next step in his career.

Speaking in quotes reported by Dutch outlet VTBL, Tagliafico’s agent Ricardo Schlieper discussed the prospect of a contract extension for his client. Teammate Andre Onana has just signed a new deal, but Schlieper says Tagliafico thinks it’s “time to take a step” in his career.

“Ajax has made a proposal, but we have refused,” Schlieper said. “Let us wait and see what happens in the transfer market. Ajax has not yet spoken about the desired transfer amount, but I suspect the club is asking more than 20 million euros for him.

“Nico is a top professional and has unprecedented discipline, which means that sooner or later he’ll get the chance to take the step he wants.”

This all makes for interesting reading for Arsenal fans, considering the left-back is reportedly on the Gunners’ transfer shortlist this summer.

The Mail on Sunday recently claimed the club are looking at Tagliafico to replace Nacho Monreal, whilst Fox Sports journalist Martin Liberman suggested in February that they were prepared to offer an ‘irresistible’ contract to the defender.

Despite earlier rumours that he’d extended his own deal, it appears Nacho Monreal is set to let his contract run down to leave for free this summer. Combine that with Sead Kolasinac’s injury problems and Unai Emery’s lack of faith in the various academy left-backs this season, and it becomes pretty clear the club need a new one this summer.

Tagliafico has five goals and five assists in 34 appearances this campaign, and he’s been called up by Argentina for every recent international break. He’d make a great addition to the team if Arsenal can get a deal through.