Heerenveen are looking to sign Joey Veerman’s replacement in the January transfer window with the Southampton-linked star expected to be in demand once again, as reported by Voetbal International.
Whether the Saints return with a new approach for one of the Eredivisie’s most complete midfielders, however, remains to be seen.
Veerman was keen on a move to St Mary’s before the October transfer deadline (Sun, 30 September, page 51), with Southampton scout Piet Buter confirming the club’s interest in an £11 million-rated Dutchman with “great technique” (NH Nieuws).
Ralph Hasenhuttl’s surprise packages signed Ibrahima Diallo two months ago instead but, with the former Brest captain enduring a slow start to life in England, Southampton could be tempted back into the market.
VG claims FC Rostov’s Norway international, Mathias Normann, is a target, suggesting options are already being considered.
And if Southampton renew their interest in Veerman, it’s unlikely Heerenveen would stand in the 22-year-old’s way.
“Without going into specific players, that is the direction in which we think and work,” technical director Gerry Hamstra admits when asked if the Fresians are looking to sign Veerman’s successor.
A dynamic, forward-thinking, box-to-box midfielder with a superb passing range, Veerman is tailor-made for Ralph Hasenhuttl’s all-action football.
The Dutchman has four goals and six assists in 14 games this season and, on paper at least, would thrive alongside James Ward-Prowse or Stuart Armstrong in Southampton’s midfield three.
“This boy plays football so incredibly easily,” adds Fox Sports reporter and former Ajax star Kenneth Perez. “He doesn’t get nervous about anything.
“If you’re that good, you don’t want to be with Heerenveen. It’s a good club, and it will take him a while before he makes another step. But, if Joey Veerman doesn’t reach the top, something has gone completely wrong.”
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
