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'A golden chance' – Erik ten Hag 'delighted' after signing former Manchester United loanee for Eredivisie club
Arjun Pillai | June 28, 2026 4:01 AM CST

Twente have finalised a deal to bring seasoned Netherlands striker Wout Weghorst to the club on a two-year contract after his exit from Ajax. The free transfer marks a significant success for incoming technical director Erik ten Hag, who previously coached the powerful forward during his brief loan stint at Manchester United.

Eredivisie club secure experienced forward

The Enschede-based side confirmed the signing of the 33-year-old as a free agent. Currently representing the Netherlands at the World Cup, Weghorst leaves Amsterdam having scored 20 goals across two seasons. Ten Hag played a key role in completing the move, using his influence to persuade his former Old Trafford player to pledge his future to Twente.

Ten Hag praises the acquisition

The former Manchester United manager expressed great pride after securing the services of the prolific Dutch striker. He believes Weghorst’s exceptional professionalism and extensive international experience will raise the club’s level both on and off the pitch.

Ten Hag said: “We are extremely proud that Wout Weghorst will be wearing the FC Twente jersey. Who wouldn’t be excited when an Oranje striker with over fifty international caps joins your team?

“This signing is a golden chance for us. He is a true professional and a perfect example of what can be achieved through total commitment. A player with such experience and success is normally beyond the reach of FC Twente.

“He has always shown tremendous dedication and hunger, and he is full of ambition. As someone from this region, Wout is deeply motivated to make a difference here. We are confident he will play a major part in FC Twente’s future achievements. Wout will give us that extra spark.”

Boyhood dream realised

The move holds deep sentimental value for Weghorst, who was born in nearby Borne and grew up as a passionate supporter of the Enschede club. Having celebrated Twente’s famous domestic triumphs from the stands as a young fan, the veteran striker admitted that joining his childhood team fulfils his final dream in professional football.

Weghorst said: “This transfer means a great deal to me. I feel incredibly proud to put on the FC Twente shirt from next season. As a young fan, I celebrated Twente’s cup wins at De Kuip in 2001 and 2011, stood at the Oude Markt when the club lifted the league trophy in 2010, and watched many unforgettable European nights at De Grolsch Veste. Those are memories I will always cherish.

“I’ve already achieved many of my football dreams, but there was still one left. This completes the circle for me. From next season, I will give my all to bring success to FC Twente – this time, not as a supporter, but as a player.”

Pre-season preparation ahead

Weghorst will join up with his new teammates once his World Cup duties conclude. His focus will immediately shift to integrating into the squad during pre-season training, as Twente prepare for the challenges of both domestic and European competitions. The intensive build-up will culminate in the start of the 2026–27 Eredivisie season, set to begin on the weekend of August 7–9.


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