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.
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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.
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