Thilo Kehrer has completed a season-long loan switch from AS Monaco to Ajax Amsterdam, with the Dutch side confirming that no purchase option has been included in the agreement. The move gives the Germany international an immediate route back to regular football after a frustrating start to the campaign in France.
The 29-year-old has found himself cast aside at Monaco following the arrival of Filipe Luís as manager. He has played only a single minute of competitive football this term, introduced late in the meeting with Le Havre AC on the opening weekend. That brief appearance remains his sole involvement to date.
Monaco pecking order pushes defender out
Luís appears to have identified Eric Dier and Sadibou Sané as his favoured central-defensive partnership, while Christian Mawissa also seems to be preferred ahead of Kehrer. The 29-year-old was previously a prominent member of the Monaco squad, but the change in coaching staff has left him on the outer edge of the selection picture.
With several defenders now ahead of him and little prospect of breaking back into the starting eleven in the immediate future, a temporary departure became the most practical solution for all parties.
What Ajax gain from the deal
Ajax will hope Kehrer’s extensive experience at the highest level adds solidity and leadership to a relatively young group. His versatility across defensive positions could prove useful during a demanding schedule.
Because the arrangement is a straight loan, he is expected to report back to Monaco when the season ends unless the clubs negotiate a separate understanding. For now, the defender will be focused on earning regular minutes in Amsterdam.