Ajax’s free‑transfer coup: Cruijff brings Brandt to Amsterdam

Ajax have completed a surprise signing, bringing attacking midfielder Julian Brandt to Amsterdam on a free transfer and securing his services with a contract that runs until mid‑2029. The 30‑year‑old German arrives after seven seasons at Borussia Dortmund and will join the squad for the upcoming campaign.

Vandaag, technical director Jordi Cruijff expressed delight, saying Brandt chose Ajax and that the club had been in talks for months, noting the player also had offers from other clubs. “Julian has chosen Ajax and we are extremely happy about that. We have been in talks for months and he could also have signed with other clubs,” he said.

Cruijff highlighted that this is not his first acquisition as technical director, recalling recent arrivals such as Marcos Leonardo, Caio Henrique, Daley Blind and Tolu Arokodare, all of whom have already joined Amsterdam.

Ajax break silence as Cruijff unveils Brandt signing

The German brings considerable international pedigree, having amassed 82 Champions League appearances and earning 48 caps for Germany, according to Cruijff’s assessment of his experience and mentality.

Brandt spent the previous seven seasons at Borussia Dortmund, following a six‑year spell with Bayer Leverkusen, where he developed the skills that attracted Ajax’s interest.

Three-year free deal gives Ajax a German midfield spark

Cruijff looks forward to seeing Brandt in an Ajax‑shirt next season. Het is clear that Brandt will add depth. “With him we bring in an international top player with a lot of experience and a fantastic mentality. I am sure he will give a quality impulse to our team,” he added.