After months of speculation regarding the future of Hakim Ziyech, Ajax have secured the transfer of the promising attacking midfielder in the last few days of the transfer window.
- By Nicholas Koopman
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According to AD.nl, Ajax have agreed a €11 million transfer fee with FC Twente and the player will now travel to Amsterdam to complete his medical ahead of signing a five-year contract. It is understood that Ziyech favours a move to Ajax, despite several offers from abroad, in order to continue his promising development in the Netherlands.
FC Twente commented on Ziyech’s transfer, with interim director Onno Jacobs, saying “This is a good deal for us, we are pleased that Ziyech will continue his career in the Netherlands. In addition, FC Twente can use the transfer revenue to improve the financial position [of the club].”
The Tukkers financial problems are well documented having been initially relegated from the Eredivise for financial mismanagement, only to be reinstated on appeal. Therefore, FC Twente conducted tough negotiations with Ajax in order to maximise their return, as sell on clauses mean that around 40% of the transfer fee will go to Ziyech’s representatives and his former club SC Heerenveen.
Ajax, however, were determined to get their man following a disappointing start to the season and a number of big named departures such as Arek Milik, Jasper Cillessen and Viktor Fischer. The Amsterdam club looked sluggish and disappointing, especially during their loss to Willem II, and coach Peter Bosz is hoping that Ziyech can provide the spark to lift Ajax back into Eredivise contention.
During his time at FC Twente, Ziyech scored thirty-two goals and contributed thirty assists in what was a truly remarkable spell in Enschede. Saturday was his last game for FC Twente as he signed off with two goals against Sparta Rotterdam.
Ajax will be hoping for more of the same from Ziyech as they take on Vitesse in the Amsterdam Arena on Saturday 10th September.
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