Key Takeaways:
- Ajax announced the acquisition of Yves Bissouma on a free transfer on Wednesday
- The Malian midfielder signed a one-year contract with an option for an additional year in Amsterdam
- Bissouma made 111 appearances and won the UEFA Europa League with Spurs before being released after the 2025/26 campaign
Bissouma Signs One-Year Deal in Amsterdam
Ajax have confirmed that they have finalised the signing of Yves Bissouma, following his release from Tottenham Hotspur at the conclusion of the 2025/26 season. The 30-year-old midfielder has put pen to paper on a one-year contract, which includes an option to extend for a further year. Having been unattached since his contract with Spurs expired, Bissouma will now continue his career in the Eredivisie.
Welcome to Ajax, welcome to Amsterdam.
Ajax has reached an agreement with Yves Bissouma! 🇲🇱 pic.twitter.com/QjTHdnVkRE
— AFC Ajax (@AFCAjax) September 16, 2026
Technical director Jordi Cruyff commented, “Talks with Yves began in August, and we are delighted that he has now signed for us.”
Cruyff added, “In him, we have brought in an experienced player who knows what it takes at the highest level. He can play in several positions and we hope he will be eligible to play as soon as possible.”
Busy Transfer Window at Ajax
The Amsterdam-based club were actively seeking free agents as part of their summer recruitment drive. Ajax have added 11 new players to their squad, including midfield signings Sofyan Amrabat and Julian Brandt. The move for Bissouma aims to provide further depth and versatility in the heart of midfield.
After six rounds of the Eredivisie, Ajax occupy fourth place, three points adrift of current leaders and reigning champions PSV.
Bissouma’s Tottenham Tenure: On-Pitch Impact and Off-Field Incidents
Bissouma joined Tottenham Hotspur in 2022 on a €30 million deal from Brighton. He went on to feature in 111 matches, registering two goals and helping Spurs secure the UEFA Europa League title in 2025.
His stint in North London, however, was also marked by several disciplinary issues. The Mali international was suspended in August 2024 after he posted a video in which he inhaled laughing gas from a balloon. In August 2025, then-manager Thomas Frank confirmed Bissouma had been suspended again for repeatedly arriving late to team meetings. Another incident involving laughing gas occurred in December 2025.
Looking Ahead
Bissouma’s arrival bolsters an Ajax side intent on closing the gap at the top of the Eredivisie and advancing further in European competition. If he is cleared to play promptly, the experienced Malian will add further strength to an already reinforced midfield lineup in Amsterdam.
