Reported Arsenal target Nicolas Tagliafico has confirmed his plan to remain with Ajax for another year, despite plenty of rumours suggesting a summer departure.

For the last few months, Tagliafico and his agent have both been talking up the possibility of a transfer, amid interest from Arsenal. The player rejected a contract extension and admitted he was ‘flattered’ to be linked with Arsenal, whilst his agent confirmed the left-back was considering his options.

Now, however, the 26-year-old seems to have taken a U-turn, confirming on Ajax’s Twitter account that he plans to remain with the club for another year:

https://twitter.com/AFCAjax/status/1124293873877045248

It’s no real surprise to see Tagliafico warming to the possibility of remaining with Ajax, given their recent performances. As well as sitting top of the Eredivisie table and preparing to take part in the Dutch cup final, the team have also been fantastic in the Champions League.

First, Ajax came through a group involving Bayern Munich without losing a game. Then they saw off Real Madrid and Juventus to reach the semi-finals, where they’re currently 1-0 up against Tottenham Hotspur after the first leg. There’s a real chance they could go on to win the whole thing, with Tagliafico starting regularly whenever he’s fit.

Tagliafico has five goals and six assists in 42 appearances this season, so he could have made a useful addition to the Arsenal squad. Unfortunately, it appears we’ll have to wait at least another year.