Three-year free deal gives Ajax a German midfield spark

Three seasons, no transfer fee: Ajax have secured German midfielder Julian Brandt on a free transfer, signing him to a three‑year contract in Amsterdam, giving the Amsterdammers a long‑term option to reshape their central play after a season of searching for reinforcement.

Ajax identified a lack of creative spark in midfield after a season of searching for reinforcement, and Brandt’s arrival delivers exactly that. The 30‑year‑old German brings a blend of technical ability and vision that the club hopes will lift its central play. His signing is seen as a key element in the club’s plan to rejuvenate the midfield. The creative spark was missing and the club expects Brandt to link play between defence and attack.

Brandt chose not to extend his contract with Borussia Dortmund, making him a free agent. This free‑transfer status allowed Ajax to complete the deal without paying a transfer fee, a rare opportunity for a player of his experience.

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The German international has amassed 383 Bundesliga appearances, including 29 matches for Dortmund in the previous season. He began his youth career at VfL Wolfsburg, moved to Bayer Leverkusen, and joined Borussia Dortmund in 2019 before heading to Amsterdam.

Jordi Cruijff has already overhauled the squad this summer, adding Marcos Leonardo, Daley Blind and loanee Tolu Arokodare from Wolverhampton Wanderers. Brandt becomes the fifth signing of the campaign, underscoring the club’s aggressive recruitment strategy.

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The strategic shift toward acquiring seasoned internationals is intended to complement Ajax’s young core. Ajax announced today that he has been added to the first‑team squad. With the paperwork completed, Brandt will train with his new teammates and is expected to feature in upcoming matches as the Amsterdammers continue their pursuit of domestic success.