Ajax has loaned Josip Sutalo to Lazio for one season, with the Italian club reportedly paying three million euros for the loan. Lazio also has the option to buy Sutalo at the end of the season for 7.5 million euros, which could rise to 12-15 million euros depending on various bonuses. Ajax has negotiated a 10% sell-on clause. The loan deal includes a buy option, allowing Lazio to permanently sign Sutalo for 7.5 million euros next year.
Sutalo, 26, has been struggling with injuries and has not featured in Ajax's first-team squad this season. He had also expressed his desire to leave the club, with Benfica previously being linked with a move for the defender. However, Lazio have now secured his services, and he will face familiar faces such as Danilho Doekhi, Kenneth Taylor, and Tijjani Noslin in Rome.
Ajax had been trying to offload Sutalo for some time, with the club's technical director, Jordi Cruijff, initially pushing for a sale. However, a loan deal was eventually agreed upon, with Lazio reportedly taking on Sutalo's full salary, which is around 2.5 million euros per season. This move will free up space in Ajax's salary budget and allow the club to focus on other transfer targets.
Sutalo's future at Ajax is now uncertain, with his contract set to expire in 2028.