Soccer-Ajax’s De Jong doubtful for Real Madrid game

Ajax Amsterdam midfielder Frenkie de Jong is a doubt for Wednesday’s Champions League last-16 first leg against Real Madrid after exacerbating an adductor injury. The 21-year-old, who is heading to Barcelona in an 86-million euro ($97.2 million) deal at the end of the season, was forced off the pitch 10 minutes from time as Ajax lost to Heracles Almelo in the Dutch league on Saturday.

He had been struggling before the game with injury but was passed fit to play. Ajax also have concerns over the fitness of Nicolas Tagliafico, who completed Saturday’s match but has been battling with a knee complaint, local media reported.

The return leg is in Madrid on March 5. ($1 = 0.8844 euros) (Reporting by Mark Gleeson; Editing by Ed Osmond)