Schalke sure of Engelaar capture

General manager hopeful deal will conclude this week

By Chris Ives   Last updated: 24th June 2008

Orlando Engelaar

Engelaar: Schalke target

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Schalke general manager Andreas Muller is sure FC Twente midfielder Orlando Engelaar will remain true to his word and sign for the club this week.

Engelaar has agreed personal terms with the Bundesliga side; however an impressive showing at Euro 2008 for Holland has reportedly attracted interest from a number of European clubs.

Premier League duo Everton and Newcastle are rumoured to be monitoring the 28-year-old's situation, while new FC Twente boss Steve McClaren is hopeful of retaining the player's services.

But Muller is convinced defensive midfielder Engelaar will sign at the Veltins-Arena in the coming days.

The edge

"I hope that we can complete the deal this week," Muller told Bild. "Orlando only wants to join us and made that decision some time ago. That is our trump.

"I know that he is wanted elsewhere, but Orlando won't change his mind. I am sure that he will be coming to us.

"After Holland's Euro exit, Orlando is now talking to Enschede's president Joop Munstermann to force a decision. I'm sure we will reach a reasonable agreement."