7M - Maarten Paes Transfers to Ajax: Indonesian Goalkeeper Moves from FC Dallas

Dutch powerhouse Ajax has completed the signing of goalkeeper Maarten Paes from FC Dallas. The transfer fee for the Indonesian international is reported to be €1.5 million. Paes has committed to a contract with Ajax lasting through the end of the 2029/30 campaign.

Paes departs FC Dallas after 114 appearances, matching the club record for most starts by a goalkeeper, originally set by Matt Jordan. Reflecting on his time in Dallas, Paes stated, "Dallas meant so much to me. I arrived in 2022, and these past four years have positively transformed me as an individual. I am grateful to the entire city, FC Dallas, and all my colleagues. These have been the most wonderful years of my life, and I cherished every moment. Thank you for all your support. Dallas till I die."

FC Dallas initially acquired Paes for €1 million from FC Utrecht prior to the 2022 season. The 27-year-old established himself as a consistent performer in MLS, recording 26 clean sheets and allowing 178 goals across 128 total matches. His 2025 season was curtailed by a hamstring injury, leading to backup Michael Collodi taking over for the final regular season match and the MLS Cup Playoffs, where Dallas was defeated in two games by the Vancouver Whitecaps.

Ajax's Rationale for the Signing

Ajax moved for Paes following the sale of their reserve goalkeeper, Remko Pasveer, to Heracles Almelo. The club sought a reliable backup option. Ajax's Director of Football, Marijn Beuker, explained the decision: "Once we learned of the firm interest in Remko Pasveer, we took prompt action. We have tracked Maarten's progress for a number of seasons and are delighted to finally bring him to Ajax. Our priority was an experienced and dependable goalkeeper, and Maarten fully meets these requirements. He is also a dedicated trainer, a team player with an elite mentality, perfectly aligning with the profile we sought. Together with the skilled goalkeepers already at the club, this creates a solid foundation for the seasons ahead."