Werder turn to Ajax talent after Jens Stage injury

Werder Bremen are close to completing a deal for Ajax midfielder Youri Regeer, according to reports from Bild and the Algemeen Dagblad.

The Bundesliga club are in advanced negotiations with Ajax over a loan move for the 23-year-old. The proposed agreement is also expected to include a purchase option, while Regeer could travel to Bremen as early as Monday to complete the transfer.

Regeer's versatility makes him particularly attractive to Werder. Although his primary position is defensive midfield, the Dutchman can also operate as a right-back, giving head coach Daniel Thioune another option in multiple areas of the pitch.

The move has gained urgency following the serious injury suffered by Jens Stage. The Denmark international picked up a significant thigh muscle injury during Werder's final training session before their Bundesliga opener and is expected to be unavailable for several months. Thioune said the club does not expect Stage to return before the end of the year.

Regeer could therefore immediately become an important part of Werder's plans. The Ajax academy graduate started both of the club's opening Eredivisie matches this season.

The midfielder's departure has become more likely following Ajax's arrival of Sofyan Amrabat. The experienced Morocco international has been brought in to strengthen the defensive midfield position, potentially reducing Regeer's chances of establishing himself as a regular under new head coach Míchel Sánchez.