MK Dons confirm deadline day loan signing of young goalkeeper Charlie Setford from Ajax

MK Dons have confirmed the signing of goalkeeper Charlie Setford on a season-long loan from Ajax.

The 21-year-old will move from Amsterdam to Milton Keynes on loan for the rest of the 2025/26 season. MK Dons did not disclose whether the deal includes an option or obligation to buy.

Setford is the Dons’ fourth new signing of the January transfer window, following the previous arrivals of Ben Wiles, Curtis Nelson and Jay Matete.

The goalkeeper, who has an English father, has yet to make a senior appearance for the Ajax first team, but has made over 50 appearances in the Dutch second tier for Ajax’s reserve team Jong Ajax.

Setford told the official MK Dons website of his excitement to make the move to England.

He said, “It’s been a busy couple of days. But yeah, I’m just looking forward to it. I really can’t wait to get started. I’ve been nervous and a bit anxious to be honest. So yeah, I’m just glad to be here!”

The club’s Sporting Director Liam Sweeting added, “Charlie is a very talented young goalkeeper that we’ve been aware of for sometime.

“His experiences of the game at such a young age have been unique, playing plenty of football for Ajax II as well as featuring in the First Team squad, including in the Champions League.

“At 21, he still has plenty to learn, and I’m confident that working with our goalkeepers, as well as Head of Goalkeeping, Tom Weal ,will help his development.

“We’d like to thank Ajax for their willingness to help make this deal happen, and look forward to sharing Charlie’s progression with them in the coming months.”