Nottingham Forest Complete £40M Signing of Ajax Midfield Maestro — Cooper Calls Him ‘The Missing Link’
Nottingham, July 15, 2025 — Nottingham Forest have officially completed the high-profile signing of Ajax midfield sensation, Lennart van Dijk, in a deal worth £40 million, marking one of the most ambitious transfers in the club’s recent history. The 23-year-old Dutchman has signed a five-year contract, keeping him at the City Ground until 2030.
Manager Steve Cooper described van Dijk as “the missing link” in Forest’s evolving squad, signaling the club’s intention to not just survive, but thrive in the Premier League this season.
> “Lennart brings the kind of technical ability, vision, and composure we’ve been lacking in midfield,” Cooper said in a press conference. “His intelligence on the ball, leadership despite his age, and experience at a club like Ajax will elevate this team.”
Van Dijk, a product of the famed Ajax academy, played a crucial role in their domestic campaigns over the last two seasons, helping them secure a KNVB Cup win and a second-place finish in the Eredivisie. Known for his slick passing, tactical awareness, and box-to-box presence, he recorded 7 goals and 11 assists last season.
Forest’s move for the midfielder reportedly beat off interest from several European giants, including Bayer Leverkusen and AS Roma. Club insiders revealed that van Dijk was swayed by Cooper’s long-term project and the passionate City Ground atmosphere.
> “It feels like the right time for a new challenge,” van Dijk said upon his unveiling. “Nottingham Forest have incredible history, and I want to be part of the future. I’ve spoken with Steve and some of the players, and I believe in the direction this team is going.”
Fans took to social media to welcome their new star, with hashtags like #WelcomeVanDijk and #NFFC trending within hours of the announcement. Forest supporters are now optimistic that this marquee addition will ignite a strong Premier League campaign after narrowly escaping relegation last season.
Forest’s spending suggests that the club’s board is backing Cooper with serious financial muscle, as van Dijk becomes the club’s record signing. With the midfield now bolstered, all eyes turn to the striker position, where rumors of another major signing continue to swirl.
The 2025/26 season may just be the dawn of a new era at the City Ground.
