FC Groningen had shown interest in acquiring Lewis Schouten on loan, but indications suggest that Excelsior will be the club to secure his services. AZ was willing to loan out the 21-year-old midfielder and defender to another Eredivisie club, as they considered him not yet ready for a permanent spot in their first team. Following this decision, several clubs expressed interest in Schouten, with Excelsior eventually emerging as the successful destination. The loan agreement does not include an option to buy, as AZ still envisions potential in Schouten's future at the club. Schouten, who has made a single appearance for AZ's first team and 80 appearances for Jong AZ, will now continue his development at Excelsior.