Compatriot tells Donny van de Beek to resist lure of Real Madrid | OneFootball

Rafael van der Vaart has warned Ajax midfielder Donny van de Beek against a move to Real Madrid.

Van der Vaart, who spent two disappointing seasons with Los Blancos, feels a lack of playing time with the Spanish giants could hinder the 23-year-old’s development.

“His transfer to Real Madrid does not seem to get off the ground,” the former Netherlands international told Dutch programme Studio Sport (via Football-Oranje).

“Real is really a difficult club. I would think it would be a shame if he is not allowed to play there. That is of no use to us with the Dutch national team.”

Van der Vaart advised van de Beek to choose a team where he will be a central figure, but acknowledged that it will be difficult to resist an approach from Real.

“It would be better for him to go to a club that has a bit more feeling for players and a slightly clearer idea with him,” van der Vaart said.

“But then you must say ‘no’ to that beautiful white shirt.”

Van der Vaart, who also had two spells with Hamburg during his playing career, suggested that the Bundesliga would be the most suitable destination for his compatriot.

“I would think Bayern Munich is a very nice club for him, just like Borussia Dortmund,” he said.

Manchester United have also been linked with a move for van de Beek, though reports suggest that the Premier League’s interest has waned in recent days.