Ajax's winter move could finally free up space in Amsterdam

Ajax face a pressing need to free up space in their wage structure as the 26‑year‑old left‑back Owen Wijndal, who was on a one‑year deal, appears set to leave. On 2 September, reported the club’s intention to part ways, citing limited playing time for the defender.

Deadline‑day departure confirmed

On the very last day of the summer transfer window, it seemed Wijndal would still depart, but a last‑minute snag was reported. The club later confirmed the termination on deadline day, prompting speculation about a possible winter move.

Ajax and the player agreed to dissolve the contract immediately; Wijndal stopped training on Wednesday and said goodbye to his teammates. The termination leaves a one‑year contract void and opens a slot in the squad.

Journalist Freek Jansen noted a brief flash of news about the exit, observing a noticeable sentiment among Ajax supporters. He added that the ink was not even dry when rumours of the player staying resurfaced.

According to sources, the deal involved ending the contract a day after an agreement was reached. Wijndal had already packed his belongings and was expected to join a “nice club in a top‑five league”, but that club chose another player at the final moment.

Coach Míchel Sánchez had often deployed Wijndal, yet his recent start against Hajduk Split in the Conference League proved underwhelming. Vi gave him a rating of three, the lowest among Ajax players, after a misplaced pass to Youri Baas led to the match’s final goal.

Future hinges on Zinchenko decision

Oleksandr Zinchenko is currently training at De Toekomst, completing the last phase of his rehabilitation. FootballTransfers warned that if Ajax offers the 29‑year‑old a new contract, it would directly affect Wijndal’s chances of leaving in the winter window.

Technical director Jordi Cruijff highlighted the dilemma: whether to re‑sign Zinchenko and allow Wijndal to depart depends on the Ukrainian’s physical condition. Zinchenko moved in summer 2022 for €35 million from Manchester City to Arsenal and has struggled with recurring injuries throughout his career.

History suggests a winter transfer for Wijndal would be well received in Amsterdam, and the club appears poised to act once the Zinchenko decision is finalised.