Panathinaikos Secure Major Double Boost: Rastoder Signs from Thun, de Vrij Arrives as Free Agent
Panathinaikos have completed a double signing on the final day of June, adding exciting young striker Elmin Rastoder and experienced Dutch centre-back Stefan de Vrij to their squad.
Elmin Rastoder Signs for Panathinaikos | Stefan de Vrij Joins as Free Agent – Double Signing Confirmed
Elmin Rastoder – Official Signing Confirmed
The 24-year-old North Macedonian international has completed his medical in Athens today and signed a four-year contract with Panathinaikos. He arrived in the Greek capital accompanied by his agent, Philipp Degen, to finalise the transfer from Swiss Super League champions FC Thun.
- Transfer fee: €3.5 million
- Contract: 4 years
- Next step: Rastoder will join the Panathinaikos pre-season training camp in Apeldoorn, Netherlands on Tuesday, 30 June.
Rastoder enjoyed a sensational 2025/26 season with Thun, helping the newly promoted side win their first-ever Swiss Super League title. He contributed 15 goals and 6 assists in 34 appearances and has been widely praised for his physical presence (1.91m), technical quality, and goal-scoring instinct.
According to Fabrizio Romano and Greek outlet Gazzetta.gr, the deal was agreed earlier in the week and the formalities were completed today.
Stefan de Vrij – Experienced Leader Joins on Free Transfer
In a separate but simultaneous development, 34-year-old Dutch international Stefan de Vrij is set to join Panathinaikos as a free agent after his contract with Inter Milan expired.
De Vrij, who has made over 300 Serie A appearances across spells at Lazio and Inter, brings elite defensive experience, leadership, and Champions League pedigree. He won multiple Serie A titles, Coppa Italia trophies, and reached two Champions League finals during his eight-year stay in Milan. He also has 79 caps for the Netherlands.
Reports indicate he will sign a one-year deal with an option for a second year (some sources mention until 2028), with an annual salary in the region of €2–3 million net. He is expected to complete his medical and finalise the move imminently.
What This Means for Panathinaikos
These two signings represent a clear statement of intent from the Greek club as they prepare for the new season. Rastoder adds youthful firepower and goal threat up front, while de Vrij provides immediate defensive quality, aerial strength, and dressing-room leadership.
Panathinaikos have been active in the transfer market this summer, and today’s double announcement further strengthens their squad depth ahead of pre-season in the Netherlands.
Quick Facts
| Player | Age | Position | From | Fee | Contract | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Elmin Rastoder | 24 | Striker | FC Thun | €3.5m | 4 years | Goals + physical presence |
| Stefan de Vrij | 34 | Centre-back | Inter Milan | Free | 1+1 / 2 yrs | Experience + leadership |
