Simon Adingra has revealed he spoke to several players with Sunderland connections before completing his Deadline Day move to Ajax.
The 24-year-old has joined the Dutch giants on loan until the end of the season, with Ajax also securing an option to make the transfer permanent.
It represents Adingra's second successive loan away from Sunderland after spending the second half of last season with Monaco.
Adingra convinced Ajax suits his game
Adingra only arrived at Sunderland from Brighton last summer following their promotion to the Premier League, but opportunities have become increasingly difficult to find.
The Black Cats' Deadline Day signing of Malick Fofana further increased competition in attacking areas, clearing the way for Adingra to pursue another move.
Speaking to Ajax's official website, the Ivory Coast international explained why Amsterdam appealed to him.
“It's a great opportunity for me to be an Ajax player,” Adingra said. “Ajax is a good environment, and I think the style of play suits my own style very well.”
Adingra highlighted his ability in one-on-one situations and combination play as qualities he believes should translate naturally into Ajax's system.
He also sought advice from players he already knows before making his decision.
Brian Brobbey told Adingra that Amsterdam was his “home” and offered to help him whenever required, while the winger also knows former Ajax attackers Bertrand Traoré and Mohammed Kudus.
“I know Kudus from the academy in Ghana,” Adingra added. “I hope I do just as well here as he has.”
Familiar faces can help Adingra settle
Adingra will also reunite with former Monaco teammates Caio Henrique and Thilo Kehrer at Ajax, something he believes will make his transition easier both on and off the pitch.
His immediate priority is now building his fitness before competing for regular minutes.
Adingra also revealed that Ajax's ambitions played an important role in convincing him.
“I spoke to the coach, and he told me about the plan and the project,” he said. “He spoke about the ambitions to become champions and play in the UEFA Champions League next season.”
After two loans in quick succession, Ajax now offers Adingra an opportunity to rebuild momentum and potentially secure a permanent home.
Key Points
- Simon Adingra has joined Ajax on a season-long loan from Sunderland.
- Ajax have an option to make the transfer permanent.
- Adingra spoke to Brian Brobbey and other familiar players before deciding on the move.
- He believes Ajax's attacking style is ideally suited to his strengths.
- Sunderland's signing of Malick Fofana increased competition for attacking places.
What’s Next?
Adingra's first objective will be reaching full fitness and forcing his way into the Ajax starting XI.
A successful season could lead to a permanent transfer, particularly if the winger helps Ajax achieve their ambitions of challenging for the Eredivisie title and returning to the Champions League.
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