The Ajax example and why Everton needs to learn from previous errors in the transfer window

Ajax has really set the football world on fire in recent weeks and months.

The Netherlands have qualified for the semi-finals of the Champions League with their own dynamic, smooth and offensive football brand, recalling their great side of the past.

But what has really struck the imagination of all of Europe is the lack of fear of the young Ajax team, even against powers like Juventus And Real Madrid.

Everton fans will have watched their games with a lot of interest, as will the majority of fans, but also with a hint of jealousy.

It's the kind of football the Blues have been dreaming of for years, and seeing a young Ajax team produce at the highest level in Europe gives hope that others will be able to do the same.

The players of Erik Ten Hag have somehow broken the mold of Dutch football, especially given the perception that it has been given in recent years.

Admittedly, Ajax has reached the final of the Europa League in 2017, but playing at the level of the Champions League is something that has eluded the Netherlands for some time.

The last time a Dutch team qualified for the finals of the European Cup was back in 1996. Ajax was inclined to face Juventus in the shootings to the goal after a 1-1 draw at Stadio Olympico.

From then on, the model of Dutch football has changed somewhat, with Eredivisie now establishing itself as a testing ground for young talents before being sold.

Everton, of course, dipped his toes in this market very recently – and was burned.

Davy Klabaden was the captain of Ajax, he was hailed for his performances and was proclaimed one of the most astute recruits of the summer of 2017.

Ronald Koeman, the Blues coach, knew the midfielder well and absolutely wanted to take him to Goodison Park to try to take him to the next level.

However, it was clear from the start that it would never work.

Whether it's a failure of management, the player himself or the surveillance system – Klabaden never seemed to be built to become a Premier League player.

See you on the latest news on Everton transfers HERE

But this one failure should not stop Everton from the Dutch market, and the example of Ajax in recent weeks has only reinforced that point.

The Blues have been badociated with a number of stars from Ajax and other Eredivisie clubs over the last year. Some supporters questioned the quality of the division for finding the right talent.

Klabaden may not have worked, but not all players in the Dutch league should be treated the same.

At Everton, the situation is currently very different: Marcel Brands has of course a thorough knowledge of Eredivisie and a good eye for spotting young talents.

And now, Ajax proves that players in this division can compete with the best in all of Europe.

There is no doubt that they are the shock team of the Champions League this season. Nobody at the beginning of this campaign would have expected so much from this team of players.

But some of the individuals that Ajax possesses are undoubtedly fantastic players, which proves it on the big stage.

Frenkie De Jong has already confirmed his move to Barcelona. Matthijs De Light would follow him.

David Neres has been badociated with several major European clubs, including Everton, as well as Hakim Ziyech and Donny van de Beek.

Ajax are not fleeing with the Eredivisie either, and are currently tied for points with PSV Eindhoven leading the standings.

Maybe the Dutch league is more competitive than the fans have recently credited – and the failure of Klabaden should no longer be allowed to the blind.

There is talent in the Netherlands, as proven by Ajax. Now, can brands bring these players to Everton?