West Ham United’s interest in Ajax winger Steven Bergwijn is ‘dormant’ for the time being, but the Dutch side are happy to sell if they can recoup their money on him.
That’s according to journalist Mike Verweij, who believes that John Heitinga could be behind the apparent interest in the Dutchman.
Reports since November have linked West Ham win a move to bring Bergwijn back to the Premier League, with David Moyes keen to strengthen his options up front.
They’ve continued into the January transfer window and a report last week indicated a bid could be incoming sooner rather than later.
Bergwijn has long been linked with a move away from Ajax, despite only having joined them from Tottenham in July 2022.
He’s struggled to replicate his best form since returning to the Netherlands, often finding himself the focus of ire as the Dutch giants have struggled over the last year.
It’s often been made clear they’d be happy to sell for the right price as they plan a major rebuild and Verweij says that remains the case, speculating West Ham may be interested thanks to Heitinga, who worked with him at the Dutch club and is now a coach for the Hammers.
“West Ham United has dormant interest,” Voetbal Zone quote him saying.
“I think that Heitinga, who has been there for six months now, has seen that Bergwijn can be of value in West Ham’s playing style. Especially with his speed.
“I think that when Ajax gets the chance, perhaps not this winter, the club will cooperate in a transfer of Bergwijn. Only if they get their purchase price back, so around €30m.
“Then I immediately lost all my confidence in Heitinga. If he (Heitinga) starts recommending Bergwijn to West Ham, I will lose my confidence in him. That is the same as with Ten Hag, then he gives Ajax a lot of money.”
