NEC's pursuit of Ajax defender Ahmetcan Kaplan hits a price wall

NEC Nijmegen urgently needs a new centre‑back after trainer Dick Schreuder, despite signing striker Dusan Tadić, identified a gap in his defensive line, prompting the club to target Ajax’s 23‑year‑old defender Ahmetcan Kaplan. The 23‑year‑old, who spent last season on loan at NEC, was seen as a realistic solution to the shortage.

NEC had been monitoring Kaplan for some time, repeatedly encountering Ajax’s asking price. Kaplan featured regularly for NEC during his loan spell last season.

After weeks of negotiations, the clubs devised a structure that appeared to make the move feasible. A last‑minute complication halted the process.

NEC was already close to finalising the agreement when the deal collapsed. The Nijmegen side now lacks the defender it sought.

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Ajax, the Nederlandse giant, confirmed that Kaplan no longer features in their plans for the upcoming season. His contract runs until 2027, restricting the club’s ability to move him elsewhere this year.

The long‑term contract means Ajax retains Kaplan’s registration for several years. This limits any immediate transfer options for the Dutch giant.

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With no direct alternative in sight, NEC must continue its search for a centre‑back. The club’s trainer Dick Schreuder still wants an extra central defender despite already signing Dusan Tadić.

The price dispute that stalled the deal underscores the difficulty of meeting Ajax’s valuation. NEC’s pursuit of a central defender is expected to continue through the remaining transfer period.