Ajax’s free signing Julian Brandt promises to master the final pass

Sam PlantingJournalist VIAjax announced today at 07:00 that 30‑year‑old Julian Brandt has joined Ajax on a free transfer. Met the Duitser, Brandt signs a contract that the Amsterdammers hope will reshape their attacking options in the Eredivisie. The move is billed as a transfer stunt of jewel‑like ambition.

With the German, the Amsterdammers acquire a dying type of player: a classic number 10 who can dictate play from the midfield. Brandts arrival adds a rare creative spark that many clubs in the Eredivisie have struggled to replace. Ajax expect the former Bayer Leverkusen star to become the fulcrum of their final third.

Jürgen Klopp once wanted Brandt for Liverpool when the English club searched for a young attacking leader in 2017. The data scouts at the Reds argued that, at twenty, the right‑footed Leverkusen player offered unrivalled technique, yet they flagged his lack of efficiency. Instead they turned their attention to the curly‑haired Mohamed Salah of AS Roma.

From Bundesliga star to Ajax newcomer: Julian Brandt embraces a fresh Dutch chapter

Peter Bosz also fell for Brandt’s game during his time at Leverkusen, even musing about naming him captain against Bayern München. Bosz recalled a line from Johan Cruijff: “He is my best player, so if we lose, it is his fault.” The Dutch trainer believed that such pressure would unlock Brand’s full potential.

Analysts describe Brandt as a technicus who flourishes when given a special role. The Dutch press notes that his skill set thrives on the responsibility of orchestrating the decisive moments on the pitch. This assessment underlines why Ajax moved quickly to secure his services.

Record champion Ajax secures ex‑BVB star Julian Brandt on long‑term deal

The hardest part of football, according to coaches, is delivering the crucial final pass, and Brand excels there. His vision and timing make him the ideal conduit for breaking down tight defences. Ajax fans anticipate that Brand’s mastery of the last pass will translate into more scoring opportunities for the club.