Fulham hindered as Ajax cling to Jol
On a day of conflicting reports, Jol appeared to have performed a U-turn after initially claiming in the Dutch media that he was ready to stay in the Netherlands. But it is understood the 54-year-old is intent on succeeding Roy Hodgson at Craven Cottage, only to have his path blocked by Ajax, who are keen to retain him.
Fulham’s chief executive Alistair Mackintosh is in Amsterdam to discuss the move but has so far been unable to secure Jol’s departure.
The former Tottenham manager has two years left on his contract and his exit would require Fulham to pay compensation.
The day started with reports in the Dutch media claiming Jol was prepared to snub Fulham, providing Ajax give him the funds to strengthen the squad this summer. “They (Fulham) were interested but in principle I will stay at Ajax,” Jol was quoted as saying.
Jol had been told he was not able to recruit until Dutch right-back Gregory van der Wiel and Uruguay striker Luis Suarez are sold to free up funds.
He was also angered by the release of Serbia striker Marko Pantelic and Denmark winger Dennis Rommedahl for nothing and feared he would not receive any money raised from the sale of further players. But, following talks with Ajax financial director Jeroen Slop and chief executive Rik van den Boog, he was reportedly reassured he could bring in a right-wing option and then spend more if the likes of Van der Wiel and Suarez left.
Fulham are hopeful they will capture Jol to lead the club in the post-Hodgson era after being told by Jol yesterday that he wants to manage the club.
