Tromso manager Jorgen Vik has addressed growing speculation surrounding Jens Hjertø-Dahl's future after Cardiff City emerged as serious contenders to sign the highly-rated midfielder.
Cardiff and Rangers in Pursuit
The 20-year-old Norway Under-21 international, who was close to being included in the senior World Cup squad, has been at the centre of an increasingly complex transfer saga this week. Cardiff and Rangers have both seen bids rejected as they attempt to prise him away from the Norwegian side.
Cardiff are said to be in talks with Tromso after an opening offer of around £5.5million was knocked back, while Rangers' pursuit appears to have cooled as the Scottish giants close in on Partizan Belgrade captain Vanja Dragojevic.
Vik's Statement
Speaking ahead of Tromso's weekend clash with HamKam, Vik insisted the club are not preparing to lose one of their prized assets just yet. "Despite a lot of speculation, we have retained the duo Tobias Guddal and Jens Hjertø-Dahl," Vik said. "The duo will probably be in action when TIL starts qualifying for the Europa League on Thursday."
His comments suggest Tromso are in no rush to sanction a sale, with the club keen to keep Hjertø-Dahl for next week's Europa League second qualifying round tie against Czech side FC Hradec Králové.
Interest and Background
The latest update comes after WalesOnline spoke exclusively to Nordlys sports reporter Lars Eidissen, who believes Cardiff are one of only two clubs with genuine interest despite the midfielder being linked with a host of teams across Europe. The player is understood to be open to a move to the UK after previously rejecting Turkish side Besiktas despite the Super Lig club agreeing a fee with Tromso.
Cardiff's interest is thought to have strengthened as Rangers focus on alternative midfield targets, with reports north of the border suggesting Derek McInnes' side are close to completing a move for Dragojevic. Should that deal go through, it would leave Rangers with an abundance of central midfield options and potentially clear the path for Brian Barry-Murphy's side to push ahead with their pursuit.
Player Performance
Hjertø-Dahl has enjoyed a superb campaign in Norway, registering six goals and two assists in just 12 league appearances, while his all-action displays have put him on the fringes of the senior national team squad.
