The 21‑year‑old prides himself on being both Israeli and Jewish – and he’s taking that identity with him to Amsterdam. Israeli midfielder Oscar Gloukh is on the verge of a career-defining transfer, with Ajax Amsterdam reportedly striking a verbal agreement with RB Salzburg for his services in a €15 million deal plus performance-based bonuses.
The 21‑year‑old prides himself on being both Israeli and Jewish – and he’s taking that identity with him to Amsterdam.
Israeli midfielder Oscar Gloukh is on the verge of a career-defining transfer, with Ajax Amsterdam reportedly striking a verbal agreement with RB Salzburg for his services in a €15 million deal plus performance-based bonuses.
The 21‑year‑old prides himself on being both Israeli and Jewish – and he’s taking that identity with him to Amsterdam.
A graduate of MaccabiTel Aviv’s prestigious youth academy, Gloukh joined Salzburg in January 2023 for €7 million, a then-record sale for the Israeli club. Over two seasons in Austria, the creative attacking midfielder featured in 100 matches, scoring 21 goals and delivering 23 assists. His production during the last campaign – 12 goals and 8 assists – was particularly impressive, helping Salzburg secure domestic silverware and deep runs in continental competitions.
Internationally, Gloukh has already made his mark with 21 appearances for the Israeli senior national team, contributing three goals. Known for his classy, composed presence on the ball, his ability to “lift his head even in tight spaces and spot passes no one else sees,” has drawn admiration across Europe.
According to De Telegraaf, Gloukh is set to skip Salzburg’s upcoming Champions League qualifier against Brann, heading to Amsterdam for medicals and finalizing personal terms.
His agent, Shachar Greenberg said: “Ajax is a good option. Negotiations are underway… it must be beneficial to all parties. Ajax was our first choice even before Oscar joined Salzburg. Klaas-Jan Huntelaar approached us back then.”
Financially, the five‑year deal could see Gloukh’s salary rise to €1.8 million gross annually, aligning with Ajax’s structure that incorporates bonuses tied to Champions League and other performance criteria.
Ajax returns to tradition
For Dutch fans and analysts, the unveiling of Gloukh symbolizes Ajax’s intentional return to its tradition of nurturing creative midfield playmakers.
Beyond statistics, Gloukh’s bond with his Israeli identity has come through boldly. In a recent social media post he said: “Thank you to the Israeli Defense Forces, the strongest army in the world. I love you guys! Go Israel.”
This public show of patriotism comes with visible markers: a prominent Israeli tattoo on his arm and family connections in Israel, often bringing Israeli flags to show support during his games in Europe.
In a phone interview, Gloukh told JFeed: “It’s an honor to represent Israel everywhere I go. Ajax is one of Europe’s historic clubs, and I want to bring my style, my identity, and the pride of my country to their midfield.”
Ajax’s interest in Gloukh has been building for some time. Initial contact dates back to 2023, when Salzburg activated his release clause. Now, after signing notables like goalkeeper Vitislav Jaros and winger Raúl Moro this summer, Ajax has pinpointed Gloukh – a creative force who can control the tempo and deliver in decisive moments – as a key midfield reinforcement ahead of the new season.
Salzburg’s 100-game run with Gloukh has yielded domestic titles, Champions League exposure, and even a goal in the FIFA Club World Cup. He became the youngest Israeli ever to score in the Champions League and added another milestone this year as the first Israeli to find the net in the Club World Cup.
Comparisons between Gloukh and previous Israeli stars highlight the weight of this move. If completed, it will surpass many earlier international deals and stand as one of Ajax’s most notable signings of this era.
The move also represents a cultural bridge. Ajax has deep roots in Amsterdam’s Jewish community and a history of embracing Jewish identity. For Gloukh, wearing Israeli flags and speaking openly about his heritage isn’t just personal – it adds historical resonance to this transfer.
Should the medicals and final terms conclude as expected, Gloukh will arrive in Amsterdam in the next few days. He’s expected to take part in pre-season training ahead of the new Eredivisie campaign, aiming to slot into a lineup that values creativity, versatility, and vision.
In a crowded field of midfield prospects, Gloukh stands out not only for his talent but for his character.
“To represent my country at this level is incredible,” he said. “I want to prove that Israeli footballers can succeed on big stages. This move to Ajax is more than a transfer – it’s a message.”
Category: General Sports
