No internationals on the field during AZ’s first training this morning. No Sam Beukema either. The defender is busy completing his transfer to the Italian Bologna, confirms trainer Pascal Jansen. “It looks like he will play football in Italy.”
Conversely, the Alkmaarders would like to see Denso Kasius transfer from Bologna to AZ. The former player of FC Volendam made an impression in the first division two years ago, after which a winter transfer followed. The offensive right back was rented out to the Austrian Rapid Wien last season and would fit AZ perfectly with his game type. “We think so too,” says Jansen.
Whether Tijjani Reijnders will soon follow Beukema to Serie A is not an issue, according to Jansen. “Of course I have frequent contact with Max (Huiberts, director of football affairs, ed.), but as far as I know no one has actually knocked at the door.”
Prevent leakage
AZ wants to prevent too many basic forces from leaving at the same time, just like in the summer of 2021. Milos Kerkez and Jesper Karlsson are also well represented by the scouts, while it is not inconceivable that players such as Vangelis Pavlidis and Pantelis Hatzidiakos will be drawn. Jansen: “Max and I do everything in consultation. What is best for the club and for the team.”
Vindahl Jensen and Martins Indi
Three keepers Hobie Verhulst, Daniël Deen and Rome Owusu-Oduro appeared on the field. No Peter Vindahl Jensen. The goalkeeper was rented out by AZ to 1. FC Nürnberg last year and is allowed to leave. Jansen: “He is still under contract with us, but has been given a little more margin to look at an alternative. If that doesn’t happen, he will report to us.”
Bruno Martins Indi is in the final phase of his recovery, according to Jansen. The defender has been in the rag basket since September last year with a lingering upper leg injury. “We will have to be patient. He has come a long way and I hope to be able to greet him on the field soon.”