Duo fight for Marco

Schalke have informed the defender he can leave during the transfer window, possibly on loan, and he could be handed the chance of a return to Holland.

The defender has failed to cement a regular place in the Schalke team following surgery and has been told he can move on.

Van Hoogdalem arrived in Gelsenkirchen in 1997, following coach Jupp Heynckes to the club, and emerged as a regular under the respected tactician.

However, the 31-year-old has failed to prove himself following hip surgery and is ready to move on.

A return to Holland is a distinct possibility for van Hoogdalem.

RKC technical director Marcel Brands has thrown the club's hat into the ring, claiming his adaptability would be a real asset for the Waalwijkers.

"He is multifunctional," Brands told Brabants Dagblad. "He can play in defence and midfield."

Roda could well provide stiff competition for RKC, as van Hoogdalem has a home in the city and may fancy a return to Kerkrade.