AZ Alkmaar is preparing to sell Irish striker Troy Parrott during the summer 2026 transfer window after he lost his starting position to Mexx Meerdink, according to reports from NOS and Voetbalpraat on ESPN.
The 24-year-old Irish international saw limited pre-season minutes as the Dutch club positioned Meerdink as their primary center-forward for the upcoming Eredivisie campaign.
Parrott scored 31 goals in 48 appearances across all competitions last season and holds a contract through 2029, with a market value estimated at 25 million euros.
Technical Director Confirms Decision
AZ Technical Director Niels van Duinen confirmed the strategic hierarchy shift for the attacking line, noting that Meerdink would step into the starting role after recovering from a long-term groin injury.
"That can never be said with complete certainty, but Troy has had two very good years with us," van Duinen said.
The club official explained that management made their official decision regarding the top striker position earlier in the week.
"We expressed last week that Mexx is in principle our first striker," van Duinen stated.
Journalist Jeroen Haarsma reported on ESPN that Parrott will certainly leave, with AZ looking to capitalize on a transfer fee while relying on Meerdink, Bendeguz Kovacs, and Jizz Hornkamp up front.
Defender Wouter Goes expressed his strong desire to keep the Irish striker in Alkmaar despite the club's transfer plans.
"I don't know what will be brought in and what will leave," Goes said.
The 22-year-old central defender emphasized that the team remains focused on achieving the highest possible results despite roster uncertainty.
"That's why we are going for the highest achievable result," Goes stated.
When addressing rumors surrounding his teammate's potential departure from the AFAS Stadion, the Dutch defender insisted he would attempt to block any deal.
"With Parrott, I am going to stand in the way," Goes said.
Goes acknowledged the difficulty of the situation while maintaining his lighthearted opposition to the transfer.
"That is going to be a very difficult one, that's true. With him, I am going to stand in the way, that will be fine," Goes stated.
Alongside Parrott, defender Mees de Wit is also expected to exit AZ during the transfer window, with Sam de Grand already brought in as a replacement alongside full-back Mateo Chavez.
