Martin Jol has been confirmed as the new boss of Ajax on a three-year deal after the Dutch outfit agreed a deal with Hamburg for his release.
The former Tottenham manager was targeted by the Amsterdam club after their quest to find a replacement for Marco van Basten led them to Germany.
Van Basten stepped down after just one season at the Amsterdam Arena having failed to lead the club he served with such distinction during his playing days to Champions League qualification.
Jol’s season with Hamburg was far more successful as, despite finishing fifth in the German Bundesliga having led the way early in the season, he impressed by leading the club to the semi finals of the Uefa and German Cups, as well as securing Europa League football for next season.
Hamburg chairman Horst Becker revealed on Tuesday morning that Ajax had approached Hamburg over Jol, and that talks were in progress.
Later in the day the Dutch side confirmed they had succeeded in their pursuit of the 53-year-old.
“Ajax, Hamburg and Martin Jol have agreed the transfer of Jol to Ajax,” read a statement of the club’s official website.
“Jol is head coach of the first team and in that capacity is also responsible for the buying and selling of players, and the scouting and youth networks of the club.”
Jol said: “Ajax have given me a great opportunity and with an eye on the long term, with a wide array of responsibilities.”
Jol leaves the HSH Nordbank Arena having taken charge of Hamburg just one year ago.