The Daily Mirror reports that New Hamburger SV coach Martin Jol has vowed to fight nail to keep playmaker Rafael van der Vaart away from Chelsea. However, an exit could be likely due to Van der Vaart’s willingness to leave.
The £15million-rated HSV skipper has so far refused all offers to sign an extension to his current deal, which runs out in 2010.
Despite Chelsea remaining manager-less, the Blues seem set to press ahead with signing the players ex-boss Avram Grant had identified as potential targets.
But ex- Tottenham boss Jol told the German press: “We have to do all we can to keep hold of him.
“He is one of the best five play-makers in Europe and he dictates the rhythm of HSV.”
Rafael van der Vaart, 25, is a superb attacking midfielder who is renowned for his creativity and free-kick taking skills.
The Dutchman made the surprise move to Germany after falling out of favour in the Ajax first-team, and has since re-found the form that once wowed the media and fans alike.
The Daily Mirror claims that Inter Milan and Juventus are also said to be interested in the Dutch midfielder, and if rumours prove true it is unlikely Van der Vaart will remain at the HSH Nordbank Arena for much longer.
[Source: Daily Mirror]
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