Bayern Munich sign Ajax midfielder Ryan Gravenberch
Bayern Munich have completed a deal to bring coveted Dutch midfielder Ryan Gravenberch to the Allianz Arena from Ajax.
The record champions beat off competition from some of their biggest European rivals to land the Netherlands international, 20, on a five-year deal through to 30 June 2027.
“Ryan will give our team a lot. He’s one of Europe’s best young players, has excellent technique, always finds solutions in tight space, is very dynamic and a goal threat," said sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic.
"The fact he’s opted for Bayern shows that he’s convinced by our club and the chances with us. We love players with that sort of mentality. We firmly believe we’ll have a lot of success with him.”
Gravenberch broke onto the scene at Ajax in 2019, before becoming a first-team regular during the 2020/21 campaign, getting his hands on a domestic double. He barely missed a kick this past season, and was an integral part of the side that won their UEFA Champions League group ahead of Sporting Lisbon, Borussia Dortmund and Besiktas.
All told, Gravenberch turned out 103 times in all competitions for his boyhood club, registering 12 goals and 13 assists. Capped at every youth level and a U17 UEFA Euro winner with the Netherlands in 2018, he won his first of 10 senior international caps to date in March 2021.
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“I didn’t have to think when the request came from Bayern. Bayern is one of the biggest clubs there is.” said Gravenberch, who will compete with the likes of Joshua Kimmich, Leon Goretzka and Jamal Musiala for a place in the Bayern midfield.
“Players from all over the world want to play for this club. I’m coming to Munich to win lots of titles – and Bayern is used to winning lots of titles. Everything is possible with this club, including winning the Champions League. The togetherness in this team is very strong. I like that.”
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