Midfielder Enzio Boldewijn is first signing by Dermot Drummy
Reds have gone Dutch to make their first summer signing.
23-year-old midfielder Enzio Boldewijn is heading to the Checkatrade Stadium on a two-year contract, with the option for a third year, after leaving Dutch second-tier club Almere City. The Reds beat off competition from several top-flight clubs in the Netherlands to sign him.
Enzio can operate on either flank and as well as his pace and athleticism he has an eye for goal and has helped Almere reach the Dutch League end of season play-offs.
Head Coach Dermot Drummy said: “We’re delighted to have Enzio here and I think he’s the sort of player who is going to excite our supporters, he will be like a breath of fresh air.
“He can operate on both flanks and he is very quick, strong and technically very good. He’s a player that was identified to us a while ago.
“Enzio is very keen to play in England. He calls it the home of football. We think he is capable of developing even further and, just as importantly, he is hungry to do well and be successful with Crawley. This is an opportunity he is desperate to grab and I like that hunger in a player.
“It’s an important signing for the club and one I think which shows our intent. Enzio’s style will suit the system and philosophy we want to implement here.”
Enzio said: “The club’s ambition helped influence my decision and I think Mr Drummy’s appointment makes Crawley the right place for me to flourish.
"I think it is important to have a coach who has worked with elite young footballers and can help improve them. I liked the stadium and the town too and I can’t wait to return in June to meet my new team-mates and get started.”
Enzio had spells with Dutch top-flight clubs Utrecht, where he began in the club’s Academy, and Den Bosch prior to joining Almere. This season he has scored 12 goals and contributed nine assists in 40 league and cup games.
