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Newcastle want to sign highly-rated Ajax left-back Mitchell Dijks - regardless of whether Rafa Benitez stays on as manager or not.

Crystal Palace and surprise leaders Leicester are also among the 23-year-old Dutchman’s many admirers, but the relegation-threatened Magpies are understood to have the strongest interest so far.

They made an enquiry for the 6ft 4in rising star in January, but were told he was not for sale.

With a left-back still a priority - midfielder Jack Colback started there in the defeat at Leicester on Monday night - the Geordies are set to return in the summer.

In pictures — Rafa Benitez's debut as Newcastle boss vs Leicester:

Meanwhile another Ajax player, 19-year-old midfielder Riechedly Bazoer, is ready to snub interest from Chelsea and Manchester City to stay with the Amsterdam club.

Incoming City boss Pep Guardiola had been keen to beat the Londoners to the teenager, while Guus Hiddink has recommended him to the Chelsea hierarchy.

(Image: AFP/Getty Images)

But Bazoer confirmed he wants to continue playing regularly for Ajax rather than scrap to force his way into the first-team at such big clubs - despite the financial rewards a move would bring.

He said: “I prefer to stay at Ajax until 2020. My development is more important than money.”