Arjun Menon
Taylor Joins Lazio on 4.5-Year Deal
Lazio have secured the signing of Kenneth Taylor from Ajax, with the 23-year-old midfielder penning a 4.5-year contract in Rome. The transfer fee, confirmed by Ajax, stands at €16.85 million.
Taylor’s departure marks the end of a prolonged transfer saga. FC Porto and Galatasaray were both in contention for his signature, but the Dutch international opted for Lazio—a decision influenced by his desire to compete for trophies at a high level.
“I’m happy to start this new adventure. Lazio are a great club,” Taylor said in his first media appearance. “Last year, they beat us 3-1 and made a great impression. I’ll try to bring everything I learned at Ajax here with the aim of winning trophies. At a big club like Lazio, there’s always pressure, but as a team, we can handle it well and approach every match with the idea of winning.”
Ajax Academy Graduate Departs After 184 Appearances
Taylor’s journey began in Ajax’s famed youth academy, where he progressed to the first team in 2020. Over four seasons, he amassed 184 senior appearances, contributing 36 goals and 27 assists. His standout campaign came under Francesco Farioli last season, where he notched nine goals and six assists in the Eredivisie as Ajax narrowly missed out on the title.
This term, Taylor managed two goals and two assists in 21 appearances across all competitions before his exit.
Marijn Beuker, Ajax’s director of football, reflected on Taylor’s impact:
“Kenneth is a true Ajacied who progressed from our youth academy to the first team at a young age and is therefore an example for our current youth players. He has developed into a regular member of the midfield and made an important contribution to our sporting performances in recent years. We have thanked him for his efforts and wished him every success in Italy.”
Trophy Haul and Next Steps
During his time at Ajax, Taylor lifted two Eredivisie titles and the KNVB Beker in 2021. His move to Serie A represents a significant step up, with Lazio currently battling for a top-four finish under Igor Tudor.
Taylor’s arrival bolsters Lazio’s midfield options as they push for Champions League qualification. Fans will watch closely to see how the former Ajax star adapts to the demands of Italian football.
Follow TipsGG for in-depth coverage of Taylor’s transition and Serie A developments.