Christian Eriksen to Tottenham: Hotspur Sign Ajax Star

Tottenham have signed rising star Christian Eriksen away from Ajax in an effort to bolster their midfield late in the transfer window.

The team announced the signing on Twitter:

"

We are delighted to announce that we have reached agreement with Ajax for the transfer of Christian Eriksen #THFC pic.twitter.com/ElUyojSiPn

— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) August 30, 2013"

Eriksen made steady progress during his handful of seasons with the defending Dutch champions. He's coming off his most productive term to date, in which he tallied 12 goals across all competitions. He started the new campaign in good form as well.

The 21-year-old Danish international had flashed terrific potential since the early stages of his career. A natural playmaker, he gradually developed his finishing ability at Ajax, which has allowed him to become the complete package.

Staying with the Godenzonen during his maturation process was a smart move. He could have probably left earlier for a bigger club, but instead was able to gain plenty of experience against solid competition to continue his progress.

Now, he's ready for the bigger challenges on the horizon.

Eriksen possesses a terrific combination of vision and creativity, which, when paired with his pinpoint passing ability, makes for a potent facilitator. And he should only continue to improve moving forward as he reaches his peak.

That's why he made a good target this summer. His upside is still unknown, so he hasn't yet reached peak value. If he continues to bloom as expected, the deal will likely end up looking like a bargain for his new club over the long haul.

Furthermore, he should be able to make an instant impact. Unlike some young players who arrive at the big clubs a couple of years away from making serious contributions, Eriksen is ready to hit the ground running after starting the new season in solid form; he's scored three goals in his first five matches.

He will still have to improve defensively if he's going to play a box-to-box midfield role. But that's usually something that comes with experience, and Eriksen has plenty of time to hone his skills.

Landing him late in the transfer window is a very savvy move. It should pay immediate dividends, and Eriksen's impact will only continue to increase in the coming seasons.

He's ready for the opportunity.