Ajax Amsterdam have been ordered by the Amsterdam Court of Appeal to pay at least €2.08 million, plus interest and legal fees, to scouting agency Gerards International Consultancy (GIC). The ruling stems from a dispute over resale clauses related to the transfers of Lisandro Martinez and Antony to Manchester United.
According to reports, GIC claimed they were due a contractual bonus for the two deals, which brought Ajax close to €160 million. The agency was involved in the initial scouting of both players before their moves to the Dutch capital. Ajax had argued they had settled all outstanding obligations to GIC with a final settlement agreement signed in 2020 when their collaboration ended.
The court, however, ruled that the settlement agreement did not cover future rights arising after its signing, specifically resale clauses triggered by the transfers to Manchester United. This decision overturns a previous ruling in favour of Ajax at the lower tribunal level. The initial claim was rejected, but GIC successfully appealed the decision.
Martinez joined Manchester United in July 2022 for a reported fee of €57.37 million, while Antony followed shortly after for a fee of €95 million. Both players had established themselves as key figures under Erik ten Hag at Ajax, contributing significantly to their Eredivisie title wins. The financial windfall from their sales was intended to strengthen Ajax’s squad, but the club has faced challenges in replacing their quality.
The payment to GIC represents a financial setback for Ajax, particularly as they navigate a period of transition both on and off the field. The club recently appointed a new head coach, and are looking to rebuild after a disappointing season. This ruling highlights the increasing importance of clear contractual agreements in modern football transfers, especially regarding resale clauses and scouting fees.
