Transfer of Roefs Completed Quickly: ‘He Asked Immediately Where to Sign’
The transfer of Robin Roefs to Sunderland has been completed rapidly, marking an impressive move in international football. Wilco van Schaik, the managing director of NEC, shared insights about this swift transfer process.
Quick Transfer of Robin Roefs to Sunderland
Van Schaik stated that NEC was immediately convinced when they received Sunderland’s initial offer. He described the transfer as the fastest he has ever experienced. The final agreement ended up being a substantial €10.5 million, including three bonuses of €1 million each.
Factors Contributing to the Swift Transfer
- Preparation and Strategy: The groundwork laid during the preparation was crucial for the speedy transfer.
- Collaboration: The efforts of Carlos Aalbers, NEC’s technical director, and SEG, the agency representing Roefs, facilitated the quick negotiations.
According to Van Schaik, prior to this transfer, there were rumors of Ajax’s interest in the 22-year-old goalkeeper, with a suggested price of €6 million. However, he clarified that these rumors were unfounded, as no price had been officially stated at that time.
The demand for Roefs escalated following the U21 European Championship. Van Schaik recalled a moment when Aalbers presented a paper with Sunderland’s offer of €9.5 million. His immediate response was, “Pack it up. Where do I sign?” Despite Aalbers’ desire to negotiate further, Van Schaik was firm in his decision to proceed quickly.
Rapid Negotiation Process
The negotiation process itself took approximately twenty minutes. Following direct communication with Sunderland representatives, the agreed transfer fee was quickly established. Van Schaik expressed satisfaction with how effortlessly everything came together, highlighting the importance of preparation in closing such significant deals.
This transfer not only signifies a personal milestone for Roefs but also showcases NEC’s ability to manage high-stakes negotiations efficiently. The swiftness of the transfer reflects the evolving dynamics of international football transfers.
