Rafael van der Vaart is expecting to leave Real Madrid
after learning he is not in new coach Manuel Pellegrini's plans for
the season.
The Holland international only joined Real from Hamburg last
summer, but has been deemed surplus to requirements following the
big-money arrivals at the Bernabeu.
Chelsea have previously been linked with a bid for the
midfielder, while former clubs Ajax and Hamburg are also reportedly
keen.
Van der Vaart confirmed Pellegrini has told him he will be on
the periphery this term and revealed Real want to recoup the
16million euros (£13.5m) paid to Hamburg 12 months ago.
"The coach told me I won't get much chance to play, so it's not
an option to stay here," Van der Vaart told De
Telegraaf.
"Real want to get my transfer fee back. I completely understand
that clubs want to wait."
The 26-year-old would be prepared to return to Hamburg and
admits his priority is to find a club where he will play regular
first-team football.
He added: "Of course I am interested in HSV, but it's not the
only option for me.
"The most important thing is that I will play at a new
club."
- Football365