Go Ahead Eagles have officially confirmed the transfer of goalkeeper and KNVB Beker hero Jari De Busser to AZ.

The 26-year-old joined Go Ahead Eagles from Belgian club Lommel SK in the summer of 2024 and secured the starting role from Luca Plogmann midway through the 2024-25 season.

De Busser enjoyed a memorable debut campaign, helping Go Ahead Eagles make history by winning the KNVB Beker — the club’s first major trophy in almost a century. The goalkeeper was the standout figure in the final, saving penalties from Zico Buurmeester and Mayckel Lahdo during the shootout to secure victory over AZ.

On Friday, AZ announced De Busser’s arrival on a five-year deal. The Belgian is expected to compete with Rome-Jayden Owusu-Oduro for the number-one spot in Alkmaar.

Speaking to the club’s official website, De Busser expressed his excitement about the move.

“I’m really happy to be here,” De Busser said.

“My girlfriend and I have already explored the city a little. It’s a beautiful area, and I already knew the stadium from previous matches. From the beginning, I received a warm welcome from everyone at the club. AZ feels like a family club that has continued to grow while staying true to its roots.”

De Busser also highlighted AZ’s strong reputation for developing players and helping them progress to a higher level.

“Over the years, AZ has helped many players develop further and take steps towards a higher level. That really appeals to me. I’ve always had a soft spot for AZ, and now being part of it myself feels very special,” he said.

AZ, who succeeded Go Ahead Eagles as KNVB Beker winners in the 2025-26 season, have also secured qualification for the UEFA Europa League. After experiencing European football for the first time with the Eagles, De Busser is now eager for more continental action.

“I’m looking forward to some great matches in the league, the cup and in Europe. I love playing football, I like to find creative solutions on the pitch and I think a lot about the game. My strengths also lie in goalkeeping and in one-on-one situations,” he added.

Having signed a five-year contract, De Busser made his ambitions clear in Alkmaar.

“I want to win trophies,” he said.

“That was an important topic in my discussions with the club. AZ have the ambition to keep growing, and I want to be part of that. Taking steps forward together and hopefully winning trophies again as soon as possible — that’s what I’m here for.”