Groningen defender Virgil van Dijk reveals Everton interest

Jan 9, 2013 1:55:00 PM

The Netherlands Under-21 international has claimed that the Toffees are hoping to strike a deal but a director at the Dutch club insists that they have not received any offers

Groningen defender Virgil van Dijk has revealed that Everton are interesting in signing him.

The 21-year-old has been identified as a possible replacement for fellow countryman John Heitinga, whose agent has admitted could leave Goodison Park, and Sylvain Distin, who is being targeted by QPR boss Harry Redknapp.

"I'm aware of the interest of a few clubs and Everton is one of them," Van Dijk told Voetbal International.

"I hear and read a lot. Soon I have dinner with my agent Henk-Maarten Chin. He will tell me how things are going. I enjoy the interest, but if I leave it must be a good decision when I leave."

The Netherlands Under-21 international had made 43 appearances in the Eredivisie since his debut in 2011 and has scored five times.

Despite the player's claims, Groningen director, Hans Nijland, does not believe the young defender will be leaving the club any time soon, as no official approach has been made.

"I don't expect Virgil will leave. There's not a single club that officially reported so we don't feel like talk about this for too long," he added.

Inside Goal.Com

Bayern's jinx - CL final referee Nicola Rizzoli
Goal takes a look at the career of the Italian arbiter to date following Uefa's decision to appoint the 41-year-old for Saturday's showpiece at Wembley
Kicking hooliganism out, the football fan's role

Following a series of crowd troubles that ensued at some Ghana Premier League centres a few days ago, Goal analyses the causes and how fans can help eliminate this menace
Goal's Serie A awards for 2012-13
Goal crowns the best and worst from Italy over the course of the season
...And guess who is the Ghana Player of the Week
Join us in saluting another Ghana player worthy of recognition for his outstanding performance this week
Who is the greatest Champions League striker ever?

Enter our competition now and you will be in with a chance of winning one of four replica football shirts. Simply pick your favourite and subscribe to our YouTube channel