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Vertonghen 'very close' to Tottenham move, says Ajax boss De Boer
Jun 27, 2012 2:14:00 PM
The Belgium defender had already agreed personal terms with the Premier League outfit but saw a move delayed over his right to a 15 per cent cut of the €12m transfer fee
Ajax boss Frank de Boer has revealed that Jan Vertonghen's proposed move to Tottenham Hotspur is "very close" to completion.It had appeared the deal was on the verge of collapse because of a dispute between the Dutch champions and the Belgium international over his entitlement to a 15 per cent share of the reported €12 million transfer fee.
However, De Boer told reporters at a press conference on Wednesday that the two parties are nearing an agreement.
"We're very close," the former Netherlands defender said. "But if the deal is not done, Jan must start his training next week with us.
"I was in the same situation [when he left Ajax for Barcelona in 1999]. But, eventually, I expect the deal will be done. I expect everything will be alright."
De Boer went on to reveal that he has already turned his attention to finding a suitable replacement for Vertonghen, both at the back and as skipper.
"We need a player with experience when Jan leaves," he admitted. "Toby [Alderweireld] will be the first one to fill in, but he still has much to learn. We know who the new captain will be, but first Jan has to leave."
Ajax are also currently attempting to sign Luciano Narsingh, but De Boer insists that the club will not be held to ransom over the Heerenveen winger.
"We think we made a good offer for him," the 42-year-old coach explained. "We won't go any higher.
"We can't pay huge salaries or transfer fee. Players and clubs must think about that."
It has been rumoured that PSV are now trying to hijack the deal but De Boer insists that he knows nothing of their alleged interest in the Netherlands international.
"I read the same in the newspapers as you guys," he stated. "But I don't know any more on that. How far along are they they? No idea."
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