Milan and Big Four of EPL in chase for Maarten Stekelenburg (Present Club - Ajax)
The Ajax glove-man was one of the shining stars in the FIFA World Cup 2010. Without a doubt, Marteen Stekelenburg impressed in the World Cup for Holland and was one of the main reasons why they reached the final. Over the years, the 28-year-old goalkeeper
has been a consistent performer for the Dutch Champion’s side.
Stekelenburg's current contract with Ajax runs till the end of 2012 season however he is believed to be looking for a new challenge. With the Dutch Champions in the midst of financial troubles, they also might accept a sizeable offer for their veteran shot-stopper.
Meanwhile, the Ajax number one goalie, Stekelenburg is also eyeing a move to Old Trafford. Ajax manager insisted that his number one goalies would be on his way at the end of this season. However the club’s manager Jo has not presented a clear statement
on the issue though he has stated that the Red Devils have shown interest in signing the player.
The 28-year-old player said that the Red Devils has been asking around about him, and he believes that it will be great to replace his compatriot Edwin Van der Sar at the Theatre of Dreams.
The Dutch keeper said: "That is a club where everyone wants to play, If Jol said he is aware of the interest, I will take notice”
The Dutch number one goalkeeper said that even if he doesn’t receive an offer from Sir Alex Ferguson, he will be still making an exit by the end of this season. He also added that he has no problems with his current employers, but he simply needs a new challenge
so wants to start over new at a new place. On the other hand, his present club will also benefit from the move, as the club is in desperate need of some cash.
The Ajax goalie went on to say that at the end of the season, he will decide what to do and the club’s stance will not dictate his future. Stekelenburg also added that if he makes a move to any other league he wants to play in a top club, and will not be
willing to settle for a club that is threatened by relegation.
The number one keeper of Netherlands added that if that is the case, he would rather stay at Ajax for one more season.
Two English Giants, Manchester United and Arsenal have been looking for a top class goalkeeper all over the world. Moreover, Manchester United’s veteran keeper Van der Sar is almost 40 and even he has also recommended Stekelenburg to Sir Alex Ferguson. Hence
at the moment Stekelenburg seems to be the only perfect replacement for Edwin Van der Sar.
Stekelenburg said that his contract has only one year left after this season and if Ajax wants money for him, he has no problem with that. Financially, it would be preferable to sell him this summer.
Some reports have even suggested that Marteen could be on the move in winter, but the 28-year-old goalkeeper is ready to see out the entirety of the current campaign before reviewing his options.
Milan’s Interest:
It has been reported that Italian Giants AC Milan has also shown their interest in the Ajax number one goalie. Milan’s manager Allgeri believe the 28-year-old would be an excellent addition to their squad and could add real strength between the sticks.
AC Milan could face competition for Stekelenburg however, and Sir Alex Ferguson is believed to be the most serious rivals for the keeper’s signature.
Stekelenburg is one of the few players that got promoted from the Ajax youth academy on their first time. Over the time, he has engraved his name on the team sheet and is the first choice shot stopper at Amsterdam Arena.
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