‘I’m disappointed’: Reported Rangers target fears £10m price-tag will ruin transfer hopes

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Rangers target Joey Veerman fears that a ‘crazy’ £10 million price-tag could scupper his hopes of a move away from Eredivisie outfit Heerenveen, as he told Voetbal International. 

When he was being linked with a move to the Premier League and, more specifically, Southampton some 12 months ago, you would have got long odds on Veerman still being a Heerenveen player heading into the final few weeks of the 2021 summer transfer window.   

But why, after over a year of speculation, is Veerman still swimming in the relatively small pond that is the top-flight of Dutch football?

It has certainly got nothing to do with his ability or his attitude for that matter; Veerman is a leader on the pitch and a talented technician to boot, producing nine goals and 11 assists for a Heerenveen side who slumped to a disappointing mid-table finish last term. 

But Southampton turned to Ibrahima Diallo last year and, this time around, it is Rangers who appear to be looking elsewhere.

Is Joey Veerman destined to miss out on a move to Rangers?

Reports linking Veerman with a move to Ibrox have dried up since they first emerged in Voetbal International two months ago.

The 22-year-old has also been linked with Serie A duo Hellas Verona and Atalanta but, unless Heerenveen soften their stance, another season of Eredivisie season appears to be on the cards.

“I think the Italians have made a very reasonable offer but, when I hear what Heerenveen is asking for, it can sometimes be very difficult,” Veerman said.  

“Ten to twelve million, I think that’s crazy. After Corona, with empty stadiums, the money is pretty much gone everywhere. Then I honestly don’t think this (price-tag) makes any sense.”

Heerenveen are under no immediate pressure to cash in either; much to the frustration of a player desperate to leave. 

“Then they say: ‘You still have a contract for three years. If it doesn’t work out this year, we’re going to enjoy you for another year and ask again next season’.

“I’m very sorry about that, because I’m ready for something else.

“I’m having a good time in Heerenveen and I’m playing well, but I’m just ready for a new challenge. But now I wonder if it will ever happen. I’m disappointed about that.”