Jeffrey de Lange eyes Ajax return as Marseille future hangs in balance

Goalkeeper Jeffrey de Lange, 28, is set to leave Olympique Marseille this summer and says a move back to Ajax would be ideal, as he seeks regular first‑team action after a season where he briefly became the club’s preferred keeper.

Ajax have approached de Lange on several occasions, according to the keeper, indicating the Dutch capital’s ongoing interest in bolstering its goalkeeping options. De Lange says he has no particular club preference, only a desire to play for a reputable side.

At Olympique Marseille, de Lange competes with fellow ex‑Ajax player Gerónimo Rulli for the starting spot. His contract runs until mid‑2027, and he still describes Marseille as a ‘fantastic club’.

Speaking to , de Lange explained his priority: “Het blijft wel Marseille. Dat ga je niet zomaar wegdoen. Aan de andere kant ben ik op een leeftijd waarop ik echt wil spelen. Ik voel me ook beter dan ooit, dus dan wil je elke kans aangrijpen om te gaan spelen.” He added that he will seize any opportunity to get regular minutes.

Last season he appeared to be on the verge of becoming Marseille’s first‑choice goalkeeper. A week later, head coach Roberto de Zerbi departed, which de Lange described as ‘a bit sour’ because he felt his chance was slipping.

During a cup match at the Stade Vélodrome, de Zerbi told him, “Jeff, het is jouw tijd. Jij gaat vanaf nu spelen. Je hebt het verdiend.” The coach then left the club, and the interim chose a different keeper who had more game time.

The former Go Ahead Eagles keeper referred to his Marseille stint as ‘the safe option’ after a brief period of disappointment. He noted that after working toward a starting role for a season and a half, the opportunity was short‑lived.

De Lange something will happen at Marseille this summer, keeping the French side as a viable option. With his contract extending to 2027, any move will require negotiations before the transfer window closes.