Danny Ings to escape Burnley blues for Ajax adventure?

In a tantalising twist to the Danny Ings contract saga, Burnley’s star striker cold be set for a sensational switch to Eredevisie champions Ajax, who are outsiders with Coral at 33/1 to win the Champions League.

The Amsterdam giants are believed to be amongst a host of top teams eyeing the England Under-21 international, and are apparently aiming to snare the starlet with discussions in Janaury.

Exciting prospect Ings will be free to talk to other clubs as he approaches the final six months of his current deal with Sean Dyche’s side.

The Clarets are keen to keep hold of their most highly-rated attacker, but the struggling side face an uphill battle, with a gaggle of Premier League teams also circling.

Everton, Newcastle United and Southampton, who Ings briefly represented as a school boy, are all said to be ready to snatch the 22-year-old talent from Turf Moor.

Ajax could present an intriguing option for the soon-to-be free agent, with a mooted summer move to the Netherlands offering an unusual route to European football.

If Ings departs for the Amsterdam Arena, he would have the chance to compete in a title-challenging team under the guidance of Dutch defensive legend Frank de Boer.

Ajax are famed for their aesthetic, exciting playing style and philosophy, as well their excellent youth development, which may give them the edge in any negotiations.

Arsenal and Netherlands legend Marc Overmars, now director of football at his boyhood club, is believed to have alerted the Dutch giants to Ing’s availability.

Overmars is rumoured to have had striker Ings scouted extensively and, after being satisfied that the forward would slot into Ajax’s attack, is ready to beat rivals to his signature.

This news would not be all bad for Burnley, who are reportedly entitled to a £3m compensation fee if their leading man makes an exit this summer.

If Ings decides to seek pastures new in the Netherlands, the youngster would become part of a new wave of British stars such as Gareth Bale, Ashley Cole and Micah Richards to make a move abroad.