Vangelis Pavlidis believes he is ready for ‘the next step’ with Premier League trio West Ham United, Crystal Palace and Fulham keen on the AZ Alkmaar striker.
HITC Football understands that, after sending scouts to watch the Greek international in action over the last two months, West Ham, Crystal Palace and Fulham have installed Vangelis Pavlidis among their array of potential January signings.
And who can blame them for being impressed? The skilful striker has been in stunning form this season, after all.
He has already matched his tally of 22 goals from 2022/23, despite playing only 29 matches in all competitions. And after spending the last six years in the Netherlands – joining Willem II from Borussia Dortmund in 2018 – Pavlidis may feel as if he is approaching ‘big fish in a small pond’ territory.
West Ham United in Vangelis Pavlidis race
“Are there things going on (regarding a transfer)? I don’t talk about that now, I prefer to keep that to myself,” Pavlidis tells De Telegraaf.
“It is clear that I am physically and technically ready to take the next step.”
Pavlidis does, however, have doubts about whether now is ‘the right time’ to leave AZ, without the benefits of a full pre-season at his next club.
“The transfer window in the winter is, of course, different than in the summer,” adds the 25-year-old, one of the most stylish and technically gifted forwards around.
“It is more difficult in several ways. That is why I don’t know whether this is the right time.
“Everyone knows that I wanted to take the next step last summer. In the end it was not the right time, because a suitable club did not present itself. I am very happy at AZ.
“If nothing comes, I will just continue with what I did in the first six months of the season. I want to continue to provide goals and assists and help win games. I am very motivated to be (the Eredivisie’s) top scorer, to play with AZ for a place in the Champions League, and to strive for success in the cup.”
Hammers want Danny Ings gone
HITC Football has been informed that West Ham are hoping to move on Danny Ings this month, his departure potentially opening the door for Pavlidis to take his place. That, however, is easier said than done. Ings’ eye-watering wages are proving to be substantial stumbling block.
“There is a lot of interest in Vangelis,” AZ technical director Max Huiberts explains to Voetbal International. “He is now at a level that he is interesting for all leagues in Europe.
“But he understands that, if he continues like this, the choice for him will be much wider in the summer.”
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