Exclusive: North London Conjecture Ends as Dutchman Nears Move

The representative of rumoured Arsenal and Tottenham target Gregory Van der Wiel has told the IBTimes UK that the highly coveted Holland international is very close to concluding a deal to join Valencia.

The 23-year-old has been perpetually linked with a move to the Premier League over the last two years, and in particular Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has been strongly associated with the versatile defender. In recent weeks their north London counterparts Tottenham have been credited with an interest in the player as well.

Although both Tottenham and Arsenal are said to be amongst Van der Wiel's rumoured admirers, the business partner of the player's agent Hakim Slimani, Piet van der Pol, told the International Business Times that neither Arsene Wenger nor Harry Redknapp has expressed their interest formally and that Valencia are finally close to concluding a deal.

"There is nothing at the moment (in regards to Tottenham and Arsenal's alleged advances). There is serious interest from Valencia, and Valencia and Ajax are currently discussing a transfer fee." Van der Pol told the International Business Times UK.

When pressed on the credibility of reports linking Van der Wiel with moves to Arsenal or Tottenham, and indeed a host of their Premier League rivals, Van der Pol added: "There is nothing serious at the moment, only rumour."

Although Arsenal and Tottenham continue to be linked with a player who is expected to play a major role for Holland in next summer's European championships, the aforementioned Slimani recently suggested Van der Wiel had made his mind up over his much discussed future.

"Maybe Ajax are hoping that another club will make an offer, but Gregory has already made his decision, and wants to join Valencia," Slimani told Voetbal International.

Ajax's firm negotiating stance has had the desired effect given heightened reports of pending bids from Arsenal and Tottenham, particularly given his evident pedigree, but back in December the Dutch international claimed he had already agreed terms with the previously mentioned La Liga side.

"The clubs are still negotiating, but I expect them to reach an agreement," The alleged Arsenal and Tottenham target told Eredivisie Live. "I have already spoken with Valencia and have agreed terms. If everything goes according to plan, I will sign a five-year deal."

While Ajax have patently been trying to encourage a bidding war between Valencia, Arsenal and Tottenham, it appears Arsene Wenger and Harry Redknapp have little interest in pursuing the 2010 Dutch Young Player of the Year.