Ajax sign Germany international Julian Brandt on free transfer until 2029

Ajax have announced the signing of Germany international Julian Brandt on a free transfer, with the attacking midfielder agreeing a contract that runs until the summer of 2029.

Brandt joins the Dutch club following the end of his seven-year spell with Borussia Dortmund. He previously spent six seasons at Bayer Leverkusen, meaning his move to Ajax brings an end to a long period in German football.

The 29-year-old has won 48 caps for Germany and arrives in Amsterdam with extensive experience at both domestic and European level. Ajax believe that background will strengthen their squad as Brandt begins the next stage of his career in the Netherlands.

Ajax sporting director Jordi Cruyff said the club was delighted that Brandt had chosen to continue his career with them.

“Julian chose Ajax, and we are extremely happy with that decision,” Cruyff said on the club’s official website.

He added: “We negotiated with him for several months, despite him having offers from other clubs.”

Cruyff also highlighted Brandt’s international experience and professional approach, saying: “We are signing a top-class international player, who has a great deal of experience and an outstanding professional mentality, and I am confident that he will add real quality to our team.”

Brandt leaves Borussia Dortmund after making 307 appearances for the club. During that time, he scored 57 goals and provided 70 assists.

His seven seasons at Borussia Dortmund followed a six-year spell with Bayer Leverkusen, where he established himself as an attacking midfielder before continuing his development at one of Germany’s leading clubs.

Ajax’s agreement with Brandt is a free transfer, and the contract will keep him at the club through to the end of the 2028-29 season. The deal gives the Amsterdam side a player with considerable experience from his years in Germany and from representing his country.

Brandt’s international record includes 48 appearances for Germany, adding further weight to the experience he will bring to Ajax’s midfield and attacking options. His arrival also marks a new chapter after seven seasons with Borussia Dortmund, where his final total was 307 matches, 57 goals and 70 assists.

Ajax confirmed the transfer on Friday, 31 July 2026. The announcement followed several months of negotiations between the club and the player, according to Cruyff, despite Brandt receiving interest and offers from other clubs.

The club’s sporting director said Ajax were confident Brandt would contribute both quality and a strong professional mentality. The German midfielder has now committed his future to Ajax until the summer of 2029.