It’s official now: FC Bayern has announced the signing of Ryan Gravenberch from Ajax Amsterdam. The midfield talent should mature into a top-class player in Munich – if it weren’t for the strong competition.

FC Bayern Munich have accessed the Dutch transfer market for the second time this summer. After the signing of right-back Noussair Mazraoui, the record German champions presented midfielder Ryan Gravenberch on Monday as the next signing from Ajax Amsterdam. The 20-year-old Dutch international has signed a five-year contract with Munich until 2027.

“Ryan Gravenberch is a young, highly interesting player who many top European clubs would have liked to sign,” said Bayern boss Oliver Kahn in a statement. “He chose FC Bayern because he can develop here at the highest level. Players with his qualities are important for FC Bayern’s future.”

Transfer fee is around 19 million euros

Gravenberch still had a contract with the Dutch champions until the summer of 2023. According to media reports, the native of Amsterdam will cost the German record champions a fixed transfer fee of around 19 million euros, which can be increased by up to 5.5 million euros with bonus payments. Ajax should also be involved in a possible resale with 7.5 percent.

The midfield jewel is said to have enormous potential. At Ajax, Gravenberch was particularly convincing in terms of winning the ball and tackling. The 1.90 meter tall player often benefited from his stature and athleticism. Nevertheless, the youngster has to line up behind top stars like Joshua Kimmich and the injury-prone Leon Goretzka – but could mature into serious competition in defensive midfield.

“When FC Bayern asked me, I didn’t have to think twice,” said Gravenberch. “FC Bayern is one of the biggest clubs there is: players from all over the world want to play for this club.”

That’s bad for Marc Roca

It is unclear how the commitment will affect the future of Marc Roca, who is also planned for defensive midfield. The Spaniard is keen for more playing time, is considered a transfer candidate and has most recently been linked with Leeds United.

Gravenberch is FC Bayern’s second Ajax signing this summer. Munich had already made the change from right-back Noussair Mazraoui perfect. The 24-year-old Moroccan international has signed a contract at Säbener Straße until the summer of 2026.

Together with the new hopefuls, Bayern want to play for the title again next year in the Champions League. This season, the surprise defeat against FC Villarreal came in the quarter-finals.

Liverpool’s super striker Sadio Mané will probably also be there. According to media reports, the German soccer record champion has already made two offers for the Senegalese, which the Reds are said to have rejected as too low. But at the latest since Liverpool signed center forward Darwin Nunez this Monday, nothing should stand in the way of a change for Mané, who is willing to emigrate.