Yves Bissouma joins Ajax after leaving Tottenham as a free agent

Yves Bissouma has signed for Ajax until the end of the 2026/27 season after departing Tottenham as a free agent.

The 30-year-old Mali international had been without a club since his contract with Spurs expired in June, ending a three-year spell in north London.

Ajax sporting director Jordi Cruyff said the club first opened talks with Bissouma in August before reaching an agreement for the midfielder to move to the Eredivisie.

“We have brought in an experienced player who knows what it takes to perform at the highest level,” Cruyff said.

“He is capable of playing in several positions, and we hope he will be available for selection as soon as possible.”

Bissouma moved to Tottenham from Brighton in 2022 and made 111 appearances for the club. His final campaign was affected by injuries and off-field issues, limiting him to 11 Premier League appearances.

He played under all three of Tottenham’s managers during that season – Thomas Frank, Igor Tudor and Roberto De Zerbi – as the club finished 17th in the Premier League.

His time at Tottenham also included a disciplinary issue involving Frank. The midfielder was left out of the squad for the 2025 UEFA Super Cup against Paris Saint-Germain because of persistent lateness.

Bissouma now begins the next stage of his career in the Netherlands, following spells with Brighton, Tottenham and Lille. He also brings international experience from four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments with Mali.

Ajax will hope his ability to win possession and operate in several midfield roles can reinforce their squad as he continues his European career.