Ajax confirmed the surprise signing of Julian Brandt on Friday night, making him the club's fifth signing of the summer transfer window.

Brandt left Borussia Dortmund on a free transfer in June, bringing his seven-year stay at the Signal Iduna Park to an end. He has now signed a three-year contract at Ajax, keeping him at the Johan Cruijff ArenA until June 2029.

There was interest from many clubs, and Leeds United in particular were very interested in the German playmaker. Various reports claimed that they had made an offer to him, and that Brandt was actually leaning towards a move to Elland Road, with the former Dortmund midfielder reportedly having been keen to play in the Premier League. Despite that, though, Brandt chose to join Ajax, revealing that he felt the project suited him well following talks with Jordi Cruijff and Michel.

It has been clear for a while that Ajax were keen to sign a no. 10. Before signing Brandt, Ajax attempted to sign Sven Mijnans from AZ Alkmaar, but the midfielder instead opted to join PSV Eindhoven. Ajax have also held talks over a deal for Girona's Azzedine Ounahi, but that deal has seemingly stalled.

Following Ajax's 3-1 win against Volendam in the club's final pre-season friendly before the Eredivisie season kicks off on Sunday, Michel revealed what he thinks Brandt will bring to Ajax.

"He is a great player, and with him on board, Ajax is a better team," Michel told ESPN.

"He can play as a number 10, but he can also play in another position in midfield.

"To me, he is a player with a lot of qualities in the final third. Additionally, he is a clinical finisher and possesses good passing between the lines.

"He is top quality and is at his best when he ends up in the final third."

It is quite interesting that Michel specifically mentioned the fact that Brandt can play as a no. 10, although he can also operate as a no. 8.

If Michel does see Brandt primarily as a no. 10, it may mean Ajax will go for a no. 6 as well as a no. 8, with reports before Brandt's arrival claiming that Ajax were keen to strengthen both those positions.

With Mika Godts potentially set to leave, it is possible that Ajax will not sign a direct replacement, and instead utilise Oscar Gloukh on the left wing, Brandt as the no. 10 and use the money earned from Godts' departure to sign a new no. 8.

Regardless of what Ajax do, a new no. 6 will almost certainly be signed, and Ajax are working on a deal to bring Edson Álvarez back to the club. It will not be easy, though, and Jordi Cruijff will almost certainly have more options on his list, should that deal not go through.