Ferencváros’ summer transfer activity continues to gather momentum with the acquisition of 24-year-old Belgian centre-back Toon Raemaekers from Belgian top-flight club KV Mechelen. Known for his physical presence and resilience, the 194 cm tall defender is expected to bring depth, grit, and European-level experience to the Hungarian champions’ defense.
A Promising Journey from Diest to Ferencváros
Born on 9 September 2000 in Diest, Belgium—just over an hour’s drive from Brussels—Raemaekers began his football journey with Lierse SK, joining their academy in 2007. After nearly a decade with the club, he moved to KVC Westerlo and later to OH Leuven, where his potential began to draw broader attention.
Raemaekers earned his debut in the Belgian Pro League during the 2020/21 season with OH Leuven, making 10 appearances and sharing the pitch with notable names including former Hungarian international Barnabás Bese. His career then took him to KV Mechelen in 2022, though his time there was initially limited before a productive loan spell at Lierse Kempenzonen in the Belgian second division.
Breakout at Lierse and Comeback from Injury
It was at Lierse that Raemaekers showcased his potential. In the 2022/23 season, he featured in 29 matches, logging 2,496 minutes, scoring three goals across league and cup competitions, and demonstrating both defensive stability and an ability to contribute offensively.
However, the following season posed a major challenge—a serious injury upon returning to Mechelen restricted him to just six appearances. Displaying commendable resilience, Raemaekers worked his way back into full fitness and form, ultimately reclaiming a starting role.
In the 2024/25 campaign, he appeared in 35 league matches, starting 25 of them, while also featuring in domestic cup games and seven European qualifiers. His stats from the season underline his effectiveness: 81 tackles, 37 key passes, and 75 aerial duels won.
A Valuable Asset in Defense
Raemaekers’ market value, according to Transfermarkt, currently stands at €1.2 million—a reflection of his performances and potential at just 24 years of age. Standing tall at 194 cm and known for his aerial dominance and positioning, he brings both a commanding presence and versatility to Ferencváros’ defensive lineup.
He joins a growing list of summer signings that includes Cadu, Bence Ötvös, Barnabás Nagy, Daniel Arzani, and Jonathan Levi, as Ferencváros prepares for another ambitious campaign both domestically and in Europe.
Looking Ahead
With continental competition looming and high expectations in the domestic league, Raemaekers’ arrival could prove vital. His blend of youth, experience, and physicality is expected to complement Ferencváros’ evolving defensive unit. Supporters will be eager to see how quickly he settles in—and how much of an impact he can make in green and white.
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