MK Dons have confirmed the departure of forward Max Dean, who has completed a transfer to Belgian Pro League team K.A.A. Gent for an undisclosed fee.
Dean departs Milton Keynes after 18 months, in which he played 43 games for the Dons.
A fan favourite, the young striker had a special relationship with MK Dons supporters and was a big character at Stadium MK both on and off the pitch.
In his season-and-a-half in MK, Dean provided 5 assists and scored 20 goals, including a goal-of-the-season contender at Notts County in April.
Having signed for Mark Jackson in January 2023, Dean would also feature under Graham Alexander before becoming a regular in the starting XI under Mike Williamson.
Last season, the forward was nominated for the EFL League Two Young Player of the Season award having scored 19 goals in all competitions in 2023/24.
On Max Dean's departure, Sporting Director Liam Sweeting said, “First and foremost, we are extremely proud of what Max has achieved with us and the opportunity this has created for him as he begins a new chapter in his career."
“Like many players throughout the club’s history, Max joined us looking to forge a path in the game and the outcome is one for us all to celebrate. Once again, our club has provided a platform, pathway and developmental environment that allowed Max to showcase his qualities - and create great memories for us all in the process. He is the latest example of what players can achieve at MK Dons."
On Max's relationship with MK Dons supporters, Sweeting went on to say, “Without a doubt, Max shared a special connection with our fan base, and while we made every effort to offer him a new and improved contract and keep him in Milton Keynes, sometimes an opportunity to test yourself playing top-flight football in another country is just too appealing to turn down."
On further recruitment plans, Sweeting said, "Finally, I'd like to reassure our supporters that plans to replace Max and further strengthen our squad are still underway and our recruitment is by no means finished, as we look to build a competitive squad for the 2024/25 season."
MK Dons have thanked Max for all his efforts while at Stadium MK and wish him all the best for the future.
