Ajax signing Yves Bissouma raises concerns as Mali midfielder waits for work permit

Ajax may have taken a risk by signing Yves Bissouma, according to De Telegraaf journalist Mike Verweij, although the former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder is not believed to be earning a particularly large salary at the Johan Cruijff Arena.

Bissouma joined Ajax after leaving Tottenham Hotspur this summer, meaning the Dutch club did not have to pay a transfer fee for the Mali international. He has signed a one-season contract, with Ajax holding an option to extend the agreement for a further year.

The midfielder’s arrival has nevertheless prompted questions because of his previous disciplinary issues. Verweij said some people had raised concerns after seeing photographs from Bissouma’s presentation.

“I spoke to several people who had seen the photos of his presentation and they wondered whether he had already caused trouble in the past. But that seems unlikely to me,” Verweij said on Kick-off, De Telegraaf’s football podcast.

“Everyone is entitled to make mistakes and deserves a second chance. In this particular case, perhaps even a third or fourth…”

Ajax had been looking to add another midfielder following Youri Regeer’s departure. Bissouma will compete for a place with Sofyan Amrabat and Jorthy Mokio, among others.

Verweij said Jordi Cruijff had been able to complete the deal at a relatively low cost, partly because of mistakes made by Bissouma in the past.

“I understand that Jordi Cruijff was able to recruit him for a relatively low price, partly because of a few mistakes on his part. His salary seems entirely reasonable,” Verweij said.

The journalist also suggested the contract could be extended if Bissouma reaches a certain appearance total.

“Normally, Ajax cannot go wrong with this transfer,” Verweij concluded.

Bissouma was not involved for Ajax in Saturday’s Eredivisie match against Excelsior, which ended in a 2-2 draw. He is still waiting for his work permit.