Ajax take on NAC's Leonardo

AFC Ajax have signed forward Leonardo Santiago from Eredivisie rivals NAC Breda with the Brazilian agreeing a two-and-a-half year contract in Amsterdam.

Statement of intent
"Ajax expect a lot from me, and that is how it should be when you want to reach the top," said the 23-year-old. "I want to make Ajax even stronger than they are already and to play for the title. We can do it this year as I think Ajax can still overtake PSV [Eindhoven] in the second half of the season." The Rio de Janeiro-born player joined the Feyenoord youth system at the age of eleven, making his first-team debut for the club at the age of 17 in the 2000/01 season. However, while his technical skills were exceptional, his coaches often found him difficult to handle.

Major interest
After five seasons at Feyenoord, he joined NAC midway through last season and finished the campaign with eight goals in 14 games for his new club. He has scored only once in 15 appearances this season but his speed, skill and versatility earned the attention of both Ajax and PSV. He held talks with both clubs but eventually chose third-placed Ajax over the Eredivisie leaders. "I felt happiest in the talks with the Ajax people," he said. "It is not just about money - I need to have a good feeling about a club in a sporting sense. Ajax are a top team, and I expect a lot from them."

UEFA Cup position
Ajax may choose to register Leonardo to participate in their UEFA Cup campaign once he officially signs for the club on 1 January 2007. He has not played in another European competition this season. Ajax play German side Werder Bremen in their UEFA Cup Round of 32 tie in February.