Van der Vaart still thinking

Ajax star Rafael van der Vaart says he has yet to make a decision on his future.

Ajax star Rafael van der Vaart says he has yet to make a decision on his future, despite Hamburg claiming they have agreed terms with the Dutch international.

The attack-minded midfielder is one of the most highly rated players in Dutch football and appeared to have the world at his feet when bursting onto the scene a couple of years ago.

Van der Vaart's star has dimmed somewhat this term, but he made it clear that he wanted to secure a move in the summer.

Teams in England and Spain had expressed interest in the schemer, while he had always maintained his desire was to test his skills in La Liga, but reports are suggesting he will be plying his trade in the Bundesliga.

The Dutchman was spotted in Hamburg recently, fuelling speculation that he was keen on a move to Germany, and the club's coach Thomas Doll claims terms have been agreed with the 22-year-old.

"Rafael van der Vaart has decided he would like to join us," Doll told Bild. "It is now just a question of the two clubs reaching an agreement over the fee."

Talk of a deal being agreed would appear to be premature, but HSV say they are in dialogue with Ajax.

"We are in talks with Ajax, but that is as far as it has gone at present," said HSV technical director Dietmar Beiersdorfer.

Van der Vaart claims it is premature to say he has agreed terms with the club, with his father likely to have a major say in his next destination.

"HSV are a big club and should not be underestimated," van der Vaart told Voetbal International. "I am 22 and it would be a good step in my career.

"But nothing is decided. My father will watch their last game and his judgement will be very important."

Doll sees van der Vaart as the key to helping his squad make a concerted challenge for Europe next season, but the Rothosen will have to dig deep into their pockets to land him.

According to Bild, Ajax are looking for a ‚é¼7 million fee whilst the Bundesliga outfit's latest offer is reportedly between ‚é¼4 and ‚é¼5 million.