Nevland keen on Premier League move

FC Groningen striker Erik Nevland is desperate to quit the club and move to the Premier League amid reported interest from Fulham.

The Norwegian, who had a spell at Manchester United earlier in his career but failed to make the breakthrough at Old Trafford, claims the Cottagers want him to aid their fight against relegation but Groningen are reluctant to let him go.

Nevland told Dagblad van het Noorden: "It has always been my dream to play in the Premier League. This the chance of my life. I understand that it is a difficult decision for FC Groningen to let me go, but I am 31 in 2008."

He added: "I would love to end the season at Groningen, but that is impossible. It's now or never. I hope they let me go as I think I deserve that."

Groningen, who are fifth in the Eredivisie and chasing a European place for next season, are willing to discuss the situation although they would rather keep the player.

Director Hans Nijland said the two parties would meet later on Monday to resolve the matter.

He said: "We understand that this is an enormous chance and he understands that we cannot lose him. We will meet each other again to talk about this situation."

Groningen have yet to hear from Fulham according to Nijland, who added: "As yet we haven't heard a thing so we have no idea if we can say yes or no."

The club did bolster their squad on Monday, however, by confirming the capture of Argentina Under-20 captain Matias Cahais on loan from Boca Juniors, with an option to buy at the end of the season.

Nijland said: "It is great that we managed to sign the captain of Argentina Under-20, the world champions."