Utrecht secure veteran Joris van Overeem as midfield anchor

FC Utrecht have announced the signing of 32‑year‑old central midfielder Joris van Overeem, who returns to the club from SC Heerenveen on a contract running until 2028. The Dutch veteran, a former AZ Alkmaar player, joins Utrecht after a single season with Heerenveen.

Utrecht have been one of the most active sides in this summer’s transfer market, adding Van Overeem to reinforce their midfield options. The club’s recruitment drive aims to blend experience with the squad’s youthful core. His familiarity with the club’s environment is expected to aid a quick integration.

Van Overeem began his professional career with AZ Alkmaar, making his debut during the 2013/2014 season. The following year he was loaned to FC Dordrecht, before establishing himself at AZ with over 100 appearances and 13 goals.

In the summer of 2018 he moved to FC Utrecht, where he spent three seasons, playing 116 games and scoring six goals. His previous spell demonstrated his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively in the Eredivisie.

He left Utrecht in the summer of 2022 for Israel, signing for Maccabi Tel Aviv and spending several seasons there. He returned to the Dutch top flight with SC Heerenveen last summer, adding 38 appearances and two goals to his record.

The new contract with Utrecht runs until 2028, ending his brief stay at Heerenveen after just one season. Van Overeem’s return marks the latest addition to a squad that will be guided by new coach Anthony Correia for the 2026/2027 campaign.

For Utrecht, the signing provides a seasoned Dutch midfielder familiar with the club’s culture and capable of bolstering the side under Correia’s leadership. For Van Overeem, the move secures a long‑term future at a club where he previously thrived, offering stability after his overseas stint.