Kenzo Goudmijn has revealed his delight at becoming Derby County’s latest summer signing.
The 22-year-old midfielder, who can play in a variety of positions across the middle of the pitch, has joined the Rams from side Dutch top-flight side AZ Alkmaar on a contract until 2028 for an undisclosed fee.
Goudmijn has described Derby as a ‘really big club with the right ambition’ and admitted that when he learned of the interest in him it quickly brought a smile to his face.
After sealing his move to Pride Park Stadium, he sat down with RamsTV to discuss making the move to England, his conversations with Paul Warne and his desire to get down to work with his new team-mates.
On sealing the move to Derby…
It feels amazing. I cannot wait to get started. I had some things to work out, like the paperwork, but I am happy I am finally here. I am looking to get onto the pitch as soon as possible.
On how the move has come about…
Like with every transfer, the club approached me and I was, of course, interested once I heard about it. It went back and forth but I am here now; I am happy. I wasn’t aware that the club were watching me towards the end of last season; I was just playing and busy with that. When I came over for my medical, the staff told me they came to watch me.I didn’t know.
On having the desire to move to England…
For me and almost everybody outside of England, we know this is a place to be. When I came here for the first time, it showed me that. Everything around the place confirmed it to me. For me, it is a dream to come to England.
On what he knows about Derby County…
I don’t know too much about the history. Of course, I have always followed football and grown up with it. When I hear the name Derby County, I know it is a really big club. That is why when the interest was made known, I had a smile on my face. I hope I can make more history here.
On himself as a player…
I am a midfielder. I feel I am good on the ball and technical, which I think is the right word. I like to pass the ball well and dribble. I am very passionate, and I don’t like to lose. I like to create chances for either myself or my team-mates.
On the conversations he’s had with Paul Warne…
We have spoken a lot. He has shown me how he wants to play football and what is expected at the club, which is important. It all sounded very good to me and it was clear because it is a big club with the right ambition. I hope I can fit in. Our first conversation was why he was interested in me and how I felt about it.
On getting down to work with the squad…
I met my team-mates when I came for my medical and I had breakfast with them. It all comes down to being on the pitch and I can’t wait to train with them. I am excited to show myself to the team, the fans and the people here. I can’t wait!