NEC’s €650,000 gamble on Vitesse’s rising star Adam Tahaui

NEC have agreed to pay €650,000 to Vitesse for 20‑year‑old midfielder Adam Tahaui, securing a four‑year contract that will only be finalised after a medical examination, De Gelderlander reports. The transfer, described as ‘almost sealed’, positions the Dutch club to add a promising talent to their squad.

A principle agreement was reached on Friday after weeks of negotiations between Vitesse and NEC, after which Tahaui is expected to sign.

NEC will secure Tahaui on a four‑year contract, pending the medical. The deal includes a sell‑on percentage clause, and Vitesse will receive €650,000 while the player still has one year remaining on his current contract.

NEC view the 20‑year‑old as a potential replacement for Sami Ouaissa, who impressed in the Eredivisie last season. Ouaissa’s performances have raised expectations for NEC’s midfield options.

At Vitesse, Tahaui recorded five goals and ten assists in the Keuken Kampioen Divisie last campaign. His contributions highlighted his versatility as both a midfielder and a winger.

Media reports link Tahaui with a future move to Feyenoord, suggesting the player could attract interest from larger clubs. The potential step up underscores his rising profile.

noted that NEC outbid FC Utrecht in the competition for Tahaui’s signature. The Dutch side’s willingness to meet the fee reflects its ambition in the transfer market.

The €650,000 outlay illustrates the increasing willingness of Eredivisie clubs to invest in young Dutch talent, as clubs vie for promising players amid a competitive market. NEC’s acquisition adds depth to their squad ahead of the upcoming season.