Arsenal transfer news: Riechedly Bazoer joins Wolfsburg after ‘rejecting numerous offers from renowned clubs’
Gunners miss out on versatile Ajax star as he pens four-and-a-half year deal with struggling Bundesliga giants
WOLFSBURG have beaten Arsenal to the signing of Ajax star Riechedly Bazoer.
The Germans confirmed the news on Twitter this afternoon, announcing that Bazoer will be joining them on a four-and-a-half year deal in the January transfer window.
Ajax revealed earlier in the month that 20-year-old Bazoer was set to leave this winter, with Arsenal reportedly leading the race for his signature.
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Bazoer is able to play in midfield and defence, and was rated as one of Ajax’s finest young talents.
Chelsea and Manchester City were also said to be interested, but Bazoer will now be heading for the Bundesliga instead.
Wolfsburg’s Sporting Director Olaf Rebbe gushed: “We have had a close on Riechedly Bazoer for quite some time and we are delighted that he has opted to sign for Wolfsburg, in spite of having further offers from other renowned clubs.
“He is just at the beginning of his career and we are convinced that he will make the next step in his development here with us.”
Head coach Valerien Ismael added: “I know Riechedly Bazoer well and firmly believe in the quality he possesses. He suits our team perfectly and can help VFL get back on the right track.”
Bazoer’s first task will be to help his new club work their way up the table, with Wolfsburg just two points from the bottom and a whopping 23 away from joint leaders Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig.