Ajax secured millions in transfer fees while dismantling a portion of their defensive roster within a chaotic 30-minute window, highlighted by Ko Itakura’s permanent departure to Borussia Mönchengladbach and Ahmetcan Kaplan’s move to NEC Nijmegen, according to recent club and media reports.
Ko Itakura Returns to Bundesliga With Borussia Mönchengladbach
Ajax confirmed the definitive transfer of defender Ko Itakura back to Borussia Mönchengladbach. The club allowed the former FC Groningen player to leave for the Bundesliga side at a significant financial loss compared to his arrival valuation, as reported by Dutch outlets including AD.nl and De Telegraaf.
Financial terms confirmed by outlets indicate the club recouped a notable sum from the Bundesliga outfit, though details underscore the depreciated value since his initial acquisition.
Ahmetcan Kaplan Completes Permanent Switch to NEC Nijmegen
Minutes after the Itakura announcement, Ajax finalized the sale of central defender Ahmetcan Kaplan to Eredivisie rivals NEC Nijmegen for a reported fee of 2.5 million euros. Kaplan, who struggled to lock down a consistent starting role under successive managers in Amsterdam, opted for a move designed to secure regular first-team minutes.
Simultaneous Loan Departures Shape the Squad
The defensive exodus extended beyond permanent sales. Alongside the Itakura and Kaplan transfers, Ajax confirmed the temporary departure of young talent Konadu on loan. The club’s busy administrative window mirrors broader winter reshuffling across the Eredivisie, where rivals like FC Utrecht simultaneously secured loans such as acquiring Broholm from Lille.
Next Steps and Fixture Context
Ajax returns to Eredivisie action following the close of the transfer window, with technical staff forced to navigate the rest of the season with a streamlined defensive unit.
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