VIDEO: Ajax sign chronically ill 8-year-old boy in touching gesture

In a touching gesture that serves as a nice reminder that football isn't all about ridiculous transfer fees and outrageous contracts, Dutch club Ajax went out of their way to help fulfill the dream of a chronically ill eight-year-old fan.

In partnership with the Opkikker Foundation, manager Frank de Boer and co. made sure that youngster Jay-Jay Willems -- who suffers from IBS abdominal ache -- had the experience of a lifetime by 'signing' him to a contract.

After being unveiled to the media during a faux press conference, Willems got to tour the Amsterdam Arena.

But that wasn't all. Not even close.

He was allowed to warm-up with the team ahead of their recent league match with NAC Breda, and walked out of the tunnel with the players donning the No. 9 shirt.

Willems' name was announced over the loud speaker and his picture flashed on the big screen, to massive cheers from those in attendance.

A ceremonial kick-off closed out the proceedings.

The look of wonder on his face is so, so heartwarming.

Here's the translation of what de Boer had to say, via Eurosport:

"I would like to introduce a new player. Jay-Jay is a left forward and during training he got our attention.

"With his qualities we think he eventually can play with the first team."

The former Netherlands star added: "We keep an eye of the stars of the future. Look at this guy from Ajax. Jay-Jay, is a fast, smart, roguish player. He knows a lot about football, you can see that in the way he moves.

"Pay attention to this little guy - another hero is born at Ajax, Jay-Jay Willems."

Well done, Ajax. Well done.