Gregory van der Wiel could yet join Arsenal, according to reports.
The Gunners had been linked with the Dutch defender throughout the transfer window after he was one of Holland’s star turns at the World Cup.
This reported interest from Arsene Wenger led the Ajax full-back to speak out about his desire to link up with international team-mate Robin van Persie at the Emirates.
He said: "Of course it's nice to read that Arsenal are interested. Van Persie has told me many stories about the Premier League, Arsenal and Mr Wenger.
“Maybe he can put in a good word for me.”
TalkSPORT now suggests that two Premier League clubs have requested “representative passes” to watch the 22-year-old in action for Ajax this season.
The financial plight of the Amsterdam club is understood to mean they are willing to listen to offers for their prized assets, and they are allegedly holding out for £15 million for van der Wiel.
Last month Ajax financial director Jeroen Slop lamented their economic plight.
“Ajax last season recorded a loss of 21 million euros because of missing out on the group stage of the Champions League achievement,” he said.
“We cannot afford the same loss rate and will be forced to sell and top players are not excluded."
