Bayern Munich confirm shock transfer for Daley Blind until end of season after ex-Man Utd star terminated Ajax contract
BAYERN MUNICH have confirmed the signing of former Manchester United and Ajax star Daley Blind on a free transfer.
The defender terminated his contract with boyhood club Ajax in December after a successful career and had been on the lookout for a new club.
The Dutchman had been linked to Belgian side Antwerp.
But the 32-year-old has joined Bayern Munich in a surprise free transfer and will wear the No23 shirt.
Blind is joining a Bayern team looking to win an 11th consecutive league title.
They sit four clear at the top of the Bundesliga after a tricky start to the season, and can also look forward to a huge clash against French giants PSG in the Champions League next month.
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On the move, the player said: "I can't wait to play here.
"We're now facing the most important part of the season which is about the titles - and a club like #FCBayern can win any trophy. Der Hunger for titles here was key to my decision."
Blind left Ajax in December after mutually agreeing to terminate his contract six months before it was set to expire.
His father, Danny, who held an advisory role at the club, also stepped away.
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Blind won seven Eredivisie titles across his two spells with the club.
He said in an emotional Twitter post that "circumstances" was why he was leaving the club.
The Ajax legend said: "With pain in my heart and tears in my eyes I have to say goodbye to the club. Playing for Ajax is the best thing there is.
"Amsterdammers are often direct and demanding. That is also allowed, I like that and that is why I can always be honest with you. Together we have a special relationship and that was not always easy for me.
"Sometimes I had the feeling that I was playing against some of you and sometimes I felt that I was criticised just a little faster than many other players. That is absolutely not why I’m leaving.
"This is not how I imagined my end at Ajax, but due to ‘circumstances’ it turned out that way. I hope the right time will come to say goodbye to you. Make sure Ajax stays Ajax."
Blind came through Ajax's youth system and played for the senior side between 2008 and 2014.
He then had a four-year stay at Manchester United before returning to Amsterdam.
Blind becomes the latest huge figure to leave the club recently, following manager Erik ten Hag and Antony departing for United while Ryan Gravenberch went to Bayern.
In 2019, it was revealed that Blind had a heart condition after he complained of dizziness during a Champions League game.
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After being sent for tests, the star was discovered cardiomyopathy or heart muscle inflammation.
He has since had a device fitted to monitor the rhythm of his heart.
