VAN DER VAART SETS SIGHTS ON JUVE
Hamburg star Rafael van der Vaart has fuelled rumours of a summer switch to Juventus, claiming it would be a "dream" move.
The Holland international had already confirmed he will not be extending his contract with the Bundesliga outfit which is due to expire in 2010, and added on Wednesday that he would love to play with his "idol" - Juventus striker Alessandro del Piero.
Speaking from Dubai where Hamburg are playing a mini-tournament during their winter break, Van der Vaart told Gazzetta dello sport: "He's a fantastic player. Actually let me say more - he's my idol. It would be a dream to play with him.
"There's a strong interest from the Bianconeri but nothing has been sealed. For me it's a huge honour to be considered a good player by such an important club like Juve."
The 24-year-old has been a leading figure in Hamburg's challenge at the top of the Bundesliga so far this season, scoring nine goals in 14 games.
He was the focus of a club-record transfer bid from Valencia last summer, but the offer was rejected by Hamburg.
However, the German club have accepted defeat in their bid to keep hold of the midfielder who now has his sights firmly set on Italy - though he was quick to add that there was no concrete offer on the table.
"I didn't want to extend my contract even though the offer on the table was superb," added van der Vaart. "My relationship with the Hamburg management remains great.
"The Italian championship is very competitive, it would be an important experience. Italy is a very beautiful country and I would love to play there.
"For now, however, I am a Hamburg player and above all I have to think about playing out a good season here."
sportinglife.com