Traspasos
KV Mechelen complete signing of defender Luc Marijnissen from Dender
The 22-year-old Netherlands defender has joined KV Mechelen from Dender in a transfer completed on 14 August 2026.
KV Mechelen have moved to strengthen their defensive options with the addition of Luc Marijnissen, who has completed a transfer from fellow Belgian side Dender.
The deal was finalised on 14 August 2026, with Marijnissen putting pen to paper on a contract that will see him represent the Zwarte Pieters-Leeuw-based club moving forward. The 22-year-old defender was immediately available for selection under manager Franky Van der Elst.
Marijnissen began his senior career in the Netherlands before making the move to Belgium, where he established himself as a regular presence in Dender's backline over the past two seasons. His performances earned recognition from KV Mechelen, who moved swiftly to secure his services once the summer window opened.
The transfer represents a notable coup for KV Mechelen, who have been prioritising defensive reinforcements following a campaign that saw them finish outside the playoff positions. Technical director Frederic De Ceulaer confirmed the club's interest in bolstering the squad across the back line.
For Dender, the departure of Marijnissen marks the end of an era, with the young defender having made over 60 appearances for the club since his arrival. Manager Wim Van der Bieten acknowledged the loss but expressed confidence in the squad's ability to adapt.
Marijnissen's arrival adds depth to KV Mechelen's defensive unit, which has been reinforced with the aim of pushing for higher league positions this season. The club's recruitment strategy has focused on securing talent with top-flight potential, and the defender's profile fits that remit.
The player is expected to be introduced to supporters at an official unveiling in the coming days, where he will be assigned a squad number ahead of the opening fixtures. KV Mechelen return to action in the first week of September, giving Marijnissen time to integrate with his new teammates.
This signing continues KV Mechelen's active summer transfer period, during which they have targeted several positions with an eye on improving their standing in the Belgian top flight. The club's hierarchy remains optimistic about the squad's evolution.