Mike van der Hoorn to join AEK Larnaca after Utrecht exit

Mike van der Hoorn, the 33‑year‑old central defender, will leave FC Utrecht at the end of June to sign a two‑season contract with Cypriot side AEK Larnaca, after the Dutch club offered only a one‑year extension.

Van der Hoorn had been in negotiations with FC Utrecht, known as the Domstedelingen, to renew his deal before it expired at the end of the month. He reportedly insisted on a multi‑year contract, while Utrecht's proposal was limited to a single season. With the two‑season offer from AEK Larnaca on the table, the defender chose to pursue the overseas opportunity.

De highlighted that Van der Hoorn amassed 215 appearances for FC Utrecht, scoring 19 goals during his tenure. "After a total of 215 matches for FC Utrecht, in which Van der Hoorn netted nineteen goals, he is heading for an adventure on sunny Cyprus," the newspaper wrote. The article framed the move as a fresh chapter for the seasoned defender in a new league.

According to the same report, final contractual details are being finalized. "At this moment the remaining points and commas are being discussed. Afterwards Van der Hoorn will undergo a medical examination," the paper noted. The medical check is scheduled to take place before the player completes his transfer to Cyprus.

Van der Hoorn originally joined FC Utrecht permanently in the 2022 summer transfer window after the club secured his rights from German side Arminia Bielefeld, where he had previously been on loan. His career also includes a spell with Swansea City and a stint of 49 matches for Ajax in the Dutch Eredivisie. The Cyprus move marks his third experience abroad following his periods in Germany and Wales.