Borussia Dortmund have added another interesting piece to their midfield puzzle with the signing of Joey Veerman.
The Dutchman completed a €21.5 million transfer from Eredivisie side PSV Eindhoven and penned a five-year contract with the BVB too.
Dortmund's fifth new arrival this summer, Veerman comes with a reputation for creative playmaking, exemplary passing range and a keen eye for goal.
But who exactly is the 27-year-old midfielder?
Becoming Joey Veerman
Born in the quaint town of Purmerend, north to Amsterdam, Veerman took his first steps in football at the age of five with RKAV Voldendam in 2003 before shifting to Volendam, two years later.
Following 11 years at the club, the midfielder broke into their senior team in 2016 as a brought young Dutch prospect and turned heads with his blistering attacking game.
Heerenveen gave Veerman his first slice of top-flight experience in 2019, after which he never looked back. Over the next three years, the player accrued 81 caps and contributed 41 goals.
His top-notch displays landed him at PSV Eindhoven, another major step up in his career as the midfielder continued his development into a creative specialist.
During his four-year spell with the Farmers, Veerman garnered 197 appearances in all competitions while scoring 31 goals and assisting 67 times. He also lifted eight trophies, including two Eredivisie titles.
What makes Joey Veerman special?
Joey Veerman isn't your ordinary central midfielder. His ability lies in dictating and setting tempos while operating from the deep. He can exquisitely pick out runners with his expansive passing range and switch plays by the drop of the hat.
With 102 assists in his senior career, the 27-year-old has shown impressive creative skills but he also possesses a keen eye for goal, having netted 61 times. His experience will be vital in a Dortmund squad that has increasingly roped in youth players.
A bright new chapter awaits
Veerman's arrival has hyped up the fans and rightfully so. The player has all the makings of a star at the club and is set to give head coach Niko Kovac incredible tactical flexibility.
Dortmund had been lacking in a strong and experienced midfielder who could pull the strings from a deeper role and with Veerman finally filling that gap, the squad is also more balanced now.
At 27, he's in the prime of his career and could be set for an exciting spell with the BVB.
Add us as a preferred source on Google