Ajax defender Aaron Bouwman responds to Newcastle United interest

Ajax defender Aaron Bouwman has played down speculation linking him with Newcastle United, insisting that his immediate focus remains on developing in Amsterdam.

The 19-year-old centre-back has attracted attention following his emergence in Ajax's first team under manager Míchel Sánchez.

Newcastle were linked with Bouwman in October, but the defender says he prefers to leave transfer matters to his representatives.

Speaking to Voetbal International, Bouwman also addressed his manager's comparison with Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk.

Bouwman has established himself as an important member of Ajax's defence this season, earning regular opportunities under Míchel.

His progress reportedly attracted Newcastle's attention, with Chronicle Live previously suggesting that the Premier League club were monitoring him.

However, Bouwman revealed that he has little involvement in discussions about potential transfers.

"I actually never have anything to do with that myself. I just focus on Ajax and my agents handle it, if there is anything," he explained.

"I don't really need to hear about it myself, and that didn't happen either."

The defender added that overseas interest is not unusual for promising Ajax academy players.

"If you play in the Ajax youth academy, you are around that age and you have a bit of quality, then those clubs can come knocking quickly."

His comments do not confirm negotiations with Newcastle, and there is no indication that Ajax have received a formal offer.

Bouwman has also received considerable praise from Míchel, who described him as Ajax's most complete defender and suggested he could develop into the next Virgil van Dijk.

The youngster welcomed the compliment but acknowledged that he still has areas to improve.

"I can still improve defensively, and on the ball too," he said.

Bouwman was equally measured when discussing the comparison with the Netherlands captain.

"It's not like I'll be thinking 'I am Virgil van Dijk' at the next match."

"No, I am just Aaron Bouwman and I will remain so. But it is a nice compliment."

His progress has also earned international recognition.

On Friday, Bouwman made his Netherlands Under-21 debut in a 3-0 victory over Denmark.

For now, his focus remains on establishing himself at Ajax rather than pursuing a Premier League transfer.

Bouwman could feature again when the Netherlands Under-21 side host Denmark in their European Championship play-off return leg on Tuesday, 17 November.