Van der Vaart focused on Spurs
Playmaker says talk of a return to Hamburg is 'just gossip'
By Thomas Zocher. Last Updated: July 13, 2012 4:25pm
Rafael van der Vaart: Tottenham playmaker is happy where he is after being linked with Hamburg
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Rafael van der Vaart insists he is focused on the coming season at Tottenham Hotspur and says talk of a return to Hamburg is 'just gossip'.
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The Dutch playmaker joined Spurs from Real Madrid in 2010, but there have been reports he could be sold during the summer transfer window.
He previously enjoyed three years at Hamburg between 2005 and 2008, scoring 29 goals in 74 appearances for the Bundesliga club.
Hamburg coach Thorsten Fink has admitted he would be happy to welcome Van der Vaart back to the club, but the 29-year-old is planning to stay at Spurs.
Incredible
"It's kind of incredible how my name has been mentioned across Europe in the last few days," Van der Vaart told BILD. "But I just want to say that this is just gossip talking.
"I am about to play for Tottenham Hotspur in the new season. I have had two good campaigns in England and I am enjoying it.
"It's amazing the people of Hamburg and Hamburger SV still hold me in such kind regard. I enjoy this, it gives me a big boost."
Hamburg's general manager Frank Arnesen also conceded that agreeing a deal to bring Van der Vaart back to the club is just a pipedream.
Arnesen said: "Rafael van der Vaart would be an ideal signing. Every manager would be glad to be able to rely on him.
"But a transfer of Rafael van der Vaart to Hamburg is impossible. We would require massive subsidies for that."
Rafael van der Vaart
