Vitesse close to Knopper deal

Vitesse are still far from being on a sound financial footing, but coach Edward Sturing has been given the green light to freshen up his squad.

Sturing has been alerted to Knopper's availability and has stepped in with an offer for the 26-year-old.

The deal is reportedly at an advanced stage, with the player expected to undergo a medical in the near future.

Knopper has been told he has no future at Ajax, having spent last season on loan at Heerenveen, and he could well fancy breathing new life into his career at the Gelredome.

Another player attracting the interest of Vitesse is Roberto Pinto from Hertha Berlin.

The 25-year-old still has a further season to run on his Hertha deal and was a regular member of their squad last term, but he could be lured to the Gelredome.