How FC Twente pulled off a secret signing of Wout Weghorst

FC Twente sealed the signing of Dutch international striker Wout Weghorst, finalising the deal over 7,200 kilometres away and keeping it secret until a staged presentation on Sunday, with the club’s director Dominique Scholten transporting a backup shirt from the United States during the Netherlands‑Japan World Cup match. The first step of the operation took place in the De Grolsch Veste fan shop, where a FC Twente shirt bearing the name Weghorst and the number 9 was printed. Media staff were deliberately excluded from the process. Instead, keeper trainer Eric Weghorst was sent to request the shirt, claiming it was for his son. Director Dominique Scholten travelled to the United States for the Netherlands‑Japan World Cup match, carrying a backup shirt in his luggage. He took the shirt as a precaution in case the transfer was completed during the tournament. This ensured the club could finalize the signing without a physical presence in Enschede.

Why the KNVB is turning every Dutch fan into a twelfth man at the World Cup

The Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) cooperated with FC Twente on the presentation, provided the preparation would not interfere with the national team’s next World Cup fixture. In Kansas City, Weghorst underwent a medical examination by the national team doctor. He also recorded the presentation video lines and posed for official photographs, assisted by a KNVB media employee. The promotional video added a unique touch: the child walking through Enschede and visiting the FC Twente museum is not Weghorst but an eleven‑year‑old supporter hired as an actor. This detail was highlighted in the club’s media release. The youngster’s appearance helped keep the striker’s identity concealed until the reveal. Overall, the transfer was largely concluded at a distance while Weghorst focused on his World Cup duties with the Netherlands. Behind the scenes, the club arranged the medical check, the shirt printing and the presentation without any leaks. The operation demonstrates FC Twente’s ability to manage a high‑profile signing under strict confidentiality.