Ajax’s bold gamble: Julian Brandt’s free move shocks the Dutch capital

Ajax have completed the free transfer of German international Julian Brandt to Amsterdam, a move that Leon ten Voorde describes as both an absolute addition and a source of surprise. The 30‑year‑old midfielder signs a three‑year deal, choosing the Dutch capital over clubs from Europe’s top leagues.

Ajax caused surprise last week by securing Brandt for three seasons. The midfielder spent many years with Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen before opting for the Amsterdam side instead of other European top‑competition clubs.

"Brandt is 30 years old and has been part of German football for years; if he is in form, he will enrich the Eredivisie," said Leon ten Voorde, who still finds the free move to Amsterdam surprising.

Ajax secure veteran German keeper Ter Stegen on season‑long loan

Ten Voorde further noted: "It is striking that no Bundesliga club picked him up. He is a 48‑cap German international, a huge talent at Bayer Leverkusen who later moved to Dortmund but never became the star many expected. That he now joins Ajax as a free player is notable."

"I feel they have let go of the salary cap," said Kenneth Perez. He added that after Overmars the club had to cut salaries because Champions League qualification is required for higher wages, and that a transfer fee of around €2.5‑3 million is expected for Brandt.

Jordi Cruijff’s ‘military operation’ secures Julian Brandt for Ajax

Perez also linked the signing to Ajax’s ambitions: "It is nice that PSV now faces competition. Ajax seem to become stronger with these purchases."

From an Eredivisie perspective, Brandt’s arrival is viewed as a clear signal of Ajax’s intent to bolster their squad and challenge domestically and in Europe.