Rafael Van Der Vaart Wants To Leave Real Madrid; Craves Chelsea Switch

Sunday, 29 March 09, 06:20 AM · Comments (3)

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Dutch midfielder Rafael Van der Vaart wants to make a summer switch from Real Madrid, after falling out of favour with coach Juande Ramos, and has stated that Chelsea are his number one choice of destination.

The 26-year-old international was signed by former coach Bernd Schuster and initially made a positive start to his career with Los Blancos.

However, since the appointment of Ramos, Van der Vaart has watched his first-team minutes shrink and, in order to play regular football, the former Ajax and Hamburg man is desperate to move on when the transfer window re-opens in July.

However, much will depend on whether fellow Dutchman Guus Hiddink remains in charge at Stamford Bridge, beyond the expiration of his short-term deal at the end of the season.

Reports from English newspaper The Times suggest that the player has said, "Fortunately for me, Chelsea want me, and this is clear to me.

"If [Guus] Hiddink remains at the helm of Chelsea, I hope my signing will be finalised soon. I want to leave Real Madrid."

Van der Vaart signed for the Spanish Primera Division champions for €13m in 2008 on a five-year deal to join the growing band of Dutchmen at Los Blancos, but has made just 22 appearances in that time, scoring 12 goals.

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Tags: Rafael van der Vaart, Real Madrid, Chelsea

Topics: Rafael van der Vaart, Real Madrid, Chelsea

Posted by yllig | Comments (3)

3 Comments · Add yours

1. crowtrobot Wrote: | 16.59CEST | Mar 29, 2009

I've said this before but Chelsea needs better wingers and a quality striker to come in when Drogba/Anelka break down.

However, I would welcome Van der Vaart with open arms. He'd be a tremendous upgrade over aging Ballack/Deco at the moment.