AFC Ajax have bolstered their squad with two new signings while also dealing with the fallout from a heavy defeat and a serious injury. De Telegraaf reports that defender Thilo Kehrer is travelling to Amsterdam for a medical, while beIN Sports confirms the loan signing of forward Simon Adingra from Sunderland.
Who are Ajax's new signings?
Thilo Kehrer is set to join on loan from AS Monaco. De Telegraaf states that both clubs have reached a broad agreement and are finalising the details. The 29-year-old German international, formerly of Paris Saint-Germain and West Ham United, will reinforce the defence. He is a right-footed centre-back known for his strength in duels. Forward Simon Adingra also arrives on loan, from Sunderland. BeIN Sports confirmed the move, which includes an option to buy for a reported €15.9 million. The 24-year-old Ivorian was loaned to Monaco last season but did not earn a permanent move. He is currently injured but is expected to return to fitness in the coming weeks.
What is the situation after Aaron Bouwman's injury?
Ajax defender Aaron Bouwman suffered a bruised lung and sternum during the match against PSV. The Athletic reported that the 19-year-old talent will be sidelined for the remainder of September. The injury occurred following a late challenge from PSV's Ruben van Bommel, which sparked a mass brawl on the pitch. Bouwman broke into the first team last season and had started four of the five league matches this campaign. His absence is a blow for manager Míchel Sánchez, especially with Ajax currently sixth in the Eredivisie with seven points from four games. The full injury list can be followed on our injuries page.
How did Ajax react to the defeat against PSV?
Following the 3-1 loss to PSV, Sofyan Amrabat and manager Míchel Sánchez held a press conference. Voetbal International published the full footage online. PSV coach Peter Bosz and Guus Til spoke for the opposition. In Voetbal International's Rondje Eredivisie programme, the match was described as a real top fixture, despite Ajax's defeat. This loss leaves Ajax eight points behind leaders AZ Alkmaar. The team has scored nine goals and conceded five this season. Their recent form is Win, Draw, Loss, Win. The current table can be viewed in the standings.
How are former Ajax players performing at their new clubs?
Several recently departed players scored for their new teams last weekend. Wout Weghorst netted a fine goal for FC Twente against FC Groningen. Chuba Akpom scored for Ipswich Town in their 5-2 defeat to Manchester United. Loanees also made an impact. Maher Carrizo made his debut for FC Copenhagen and immediately took a penalty. Gaston Avila scored with a volley for Rosario Central. A week earlier, Branco van den Boomen opened the scoring for Angers in Ligue 1.
What's next for Ajax?
The Ajax squad has seen significant renewal this summer, with eleven new arrivals now. The additions of Kehrer and Adingra conclude the transfer activity. The team must now focus on their league campaign. The next Eredivisie fixture is an away match against FC Twente, who are seventh, on November 8th. The full schedule is on our fixtures page.
