FC Utrecht is aiming to strengthen its defense with a loan deal for Jakov Medic, the former AFC Ajax defender. This is reported by Voetbal International this week, in the final phase of the transfer window. The 27-year-old Croatian is currently under contract at English side Norwich City but is open to a return to the Eredivisie.
Why is FC Utrecht interested in Medic?
FC Utrecht has a clear need for reinforcement in defense. The club has already held talks with Nikolas Panagiotou of Omonia Nicosia, but Jakov Medic is another option on the table. Medic spent the 2023/24 season at AFC Ajax after being signed from FC St. Pauli. His time in Amsterdam, however, did not go as planned. He did score on his debut against Heracles Almelo, but afterwards he featured in only five competitive matches for the Amsterdam side.
After just one year, Medic was able to leave Ajax. He was first loaned to VfL Bochum, followed by a permanent sale to Norwich City. Now a return to the Netherlands appears possible. FC Utrecht hopes to bring him in on a loan basis. The club currently sits fourth in the Eredivisie with seven points from three games and a +6 goal difference. They are five points behind leaders AZ Alkmaar. You can find the current league table on our standings page.
How did Medic's spell at Ajax go?
The collaboration between Ajax and Jakov Medic was not successful. The defender was brought in during the summer of 2023 as a potential reinforcement but never managed to secure a regular starting spot. His only goal for the club came on his debut. After that, he largely faded into the background. The limited playing time made it clear he was not part of the plans of the technical staff at the time. His departure, first on loan and later permanently, was the logical consequence.
What does this mean for the FC Utrecht squad?
A potential arrival of Medic would create direct competition for FC Utrecht's current defenders. The club has made a solid start to the season with two wins and a draw (WDW). They have scored eight goals and conceded just two. Adding an experienced Eredivisie defender like Medic could further increase defensive stability, especially looking ahead to important upcoming fixtures. Youri Regeer is currently sidelined with an injury, underlining the need for squad depth. The latest injury news can be followed on our injuries page.
When is FC Utrecht's next match?
The next major test for FC Utrecht is already on the horizon. On Saturday, September 5th, they host PSV Eindhoven, who are second in the table. It promises to be a tough encounter at the Galgenwaard. An overview of all upcoming matches is available on our fixtures page. Negotiations with Norwich City over Jakov Medic will need to be concluded in the coming days if Utrecht wants to register him in time for this match.
