Meerdink fuels speculation over Parrott’s AZ future after Utrecht win
The AZ striker appeared to suggest his team-mate is leaving before retreating from the claim, while Leeroy Echteld stopped short of confirming an imminent transfer.
UnconfirmedThis report is based on Dutch media speculation and has not been confirmed by the clubs or players involved.
Mexx Meerdink has fuelled fresh uncertainty over Troy Parrott’s AZ future following Saturday’s 4-1 Eredivisie victory away to FC Utrecht. Speaking to ESPN after the match, Meerdink initially indicated that his fellow striker would leave the club and said the potential departure would give him an opportunity to establish himself.
When pressed on Parrott’s possible destination, however, Meerdink quickly softened his comments and claimed he did not know whether a move would happen. According to Voetbalzone, he then denied having said that Parrott was definitely leaving.
Parrott was not included in AZ’s squad at Stadion Galgenwaard. Head coach Leeroy Echteld said before the game that the Republic of Ireland forward had a minor injury. Afterwards, Echteld would not confirm that a deal was close, although he acknowledged that Parrott was pursuing a transfer and said he did not know the state of any negotiations.
Voetbalzone reports that West Ham United previously submitted an offer of around €17.5 million for Parrott, while Porto have also been named as an interested club. Neither possible move is confirmed. In Parrott’s absence, Meerdink started and scored AZ’s third goal shortly after half-time from Mateo Chávez’s cross, registering his first league goal of the season.
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