Lille Reach Agreement to Sign Calvin Verdonk from NEC Nijmegen

Lille have a deal to sign Indonesian international Calvin Verdonk from NEC Nijmegen. The reported transfer fee is €3 million. Verdonk will play a final match for NEC before joining his new club in France.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Lille and NEC Nijmegen have completed negotiations for Calvin Verdonk’s transfer. He plays left-back for NEC and is important for the Indonesian national team. The French club made their official offer earlier this week. Both sides quickly agreed on the €3 million deal. Verdonk will play in NEC’s upcoming game before going to Lille for a medical check. He has a strong relationship with NEC’s coach and players, which is why he can play one last time before leaving. He will be the first Indonesian international to play for Lille.

SEASON SO FAR: PLAYER AND CLUB FORM

Verdonk is NEC’s most consistent defender this Eredivisie season. He has made 4 appearances, provided 1 assist, and played over 350 minutes. NEC are at the top of the table in the Dutch Eredivisie, collecting nine points from their first three games. Lille have started their Ligue 1 campaign with a win and a draw, holding 6th place, two points behind leaders Paris Saint-Germain. Lille’s defensive line is strong but lacks depth at left-back, so Verdonk is a timely reinforcement.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Verdonk’s final match with NEC is on Sunday against Fortuna Sittard. It is an important fixture as NEC look to continue their excellent start of the season. Lille’s next game is against Lorient, as they try to make room for the Ligue 1’s top teams, who are just two points ahead in the standings. After his medical, Verdonk might be eligible for Lille’s squad as soon as next weekend, depending on registration and fitness. Both Lille and Indonesian fans will closely follow his performances, hoping he can make an immediate impact in French football.