Lazio have released an official announcement confirming the signing of Dutch midfielder Kenneth Taylor. The two sides have signed a four-and-a-half-year contract, valid until June 30, 2030.

Taylor came from Ajax. His contract with Ajax was originally set to expire in June 2027, but Lazio ultimately signed him for a club-record winter transfer fee of €16.85 million.

For Lazio, Taylor's arrival is expected to fill the void left by Matteo Ganduzi's departure. The official announcement also confirmed that Taylor will wear the number 24 jersey for Lazio.

Taylor, 23, came through Ajax's youth academy and made his first-team debut on December 12, 2020, in an Eredivisie match against Zwolle. To date, he has made 184 appearances for Ajax, scoring 36 goals and providing 27 assists, winning two Eredivisie titles and one Dutch Cup with the team.

Taylor has also made five appearances for the Dutch national team, including at the 2022 Qatar World Cup. To date, he has yet to score a goal or provide an assist in international competition.

After completing the transfer, Taylor said: "I am incredibly happy and excited to be able to start a new chapter. Lazio is a truly great club – everything here is wonderful, and I can't wait to begin this new chapter. I was with my family when I heard the news, and we were all very happy."

“I had a very positive season at Ajax. Lazio beat us 3-1 last season, which impressed me greatly. We’re talking about a club with a significant status: I will try my best to bring the experience and knowledge I gained at Ajax to Lazio, with the goal of winning trophies.”

“I always strive to break into the penalty area and finish the shot because scoring is one of the most important aspects of football. That’s why I always make sure I’m ready at any time. I chose the number 24 jersey to honor Kobe Bryant.”