All-time most valuable player in Belgian League history
The Belgian Jupiler Pro League remains one of the premier divisions globally for cultivating talented young players. One of the latest prodigies emerging from this league is Ardon Jashari, a 22-year-old midfielder from Club Brugge. The Swiss international has recently made history by becoming the most valuable player in Belgian top-flight history, with a remarkable market value of €32 million. Several top European clubs are now vying for his signature this summer.
Reports indicate that both AC Milan and Manchester United are seriously interested in Jashari, with Milan reportedly having already submitted a bid for the midfielder this transfer window. Here at Transfermarkt, we provide insights from a former Club Brugge scout, now TM Area Manager, detailing Jashari’s playing style, his development in the Belgian league, potential future destinations, and more.
What kind of player is Ardon Jashari?
“Jashari is a versatile player capable of playing both as a defensive midfielder and as a box-to-box midfielder,” explains Bart Tamsyn, a former scout for Brugge’s second team, Club NXT, now acting as the Area Manager for Belgium. “Although not the tallest player, he excels in ball recovery and retaining possession during duels. He possesses a strong understanding of the game and can deliver passes to ideal positions. Additionally, he demonstrates an ability to penetrate the opponent’s box, as shown by the four goals he scored last season from deeper positions.” When asked about a similar player, Tamsyn compared him to a former Arsenal midfielder: “In terms of comparisons, he resembles Granit Xhaka. Both are Swiss, both play deeper midfield roles, both excel in ball recovery, and both are left-footed.”
The Swiss international has made a significant impact in the Jupiler Pro League since transferring from FC Luzern for €6 million last summer. He played a crucial role in helping his team reach the Champions League Round of 16 and finish as league runners-up, quickly becoming a fan favorite. “Initially, it took him a while to secure a spot in the lineup due to joining late in preseason,” Tamsyn noted. “Once integrated, he swiftly proved his worth. The consensus among Belgian football fans, both supporters and opponents, is that he is the best player in the league, and he was voted Player of the Season by his peers.”
Which league would be ideal for Ardon Jashari & how much would he cost?
Interest from several clubs in the top five leagues has surged for Jashari over the past six months, but he appears selective about his next move. “Both the player and Club Brugge have mutual confidence, so a transfer this summer isn’t a necessity,” Tamsyn disclosed. “Jashari is looking for a stable top club if he does decide to move, preferring Serie A or the Bundesliga.” This news may not be favorable for Premier League clubs; Tamsyn elaborated, “Jashari has already turned down Fulham’s interest, and Manchester United is off the table for him at this moment due to their instability.”
“He was intrigued by Borussia Dortmund’s interest, but ultimately they opted for Jobe Bellingham. Currently, AC Milan represents the most tangible option. Earlier this week, they submitted an opening bid of €27 million plus €3 million in bonuses, aiming for a figure around €35 million, but Club Brugge is holding firm on their €40 million asking price. They are aware that Milan has financial capabilities, bolstered by the sale of Tijjani Reijnders.” It seems that any potential transfer of Jashari could set a new record, not just for Club Brugge, but for the entire league. “Club Brugge recognized they could surpass last summer’s record transfer fee of €33 million (excluding bonuses) for Igor Thiago, so they quickly established a €40 million asking price for Jashari. He is a calm, mature individual despite his age, so there’s no urgency for him to leave.”