McLeish's striker hopes turn to Dost
Published 22:30 04/04/12 By Football Spy
Marco van Basten is determined to put the block on Bas Dost’s planned £7m move to Aston Villa.
Dutch legend Van Basten takes over as Dost’s Heerenveen boss at the end of the season and has started negotiations to keep hold of his prized asset.
Van Basten is discussions with Heerenveen chairman Rob Veenstra over plans for the club’s squad next season.
In a blow for Villa manager Alex McLeish the Dutchman has placed keeping Dost at the top of the agenda.
Heerenveen are still in the running to clinch a Europa League spot next season and Van Basten wants Dost to spearhead the club’s challenge if they make it into Europe.
Sources close to Van Basten confirmed: “He is planning to talk with Dost and his representatives and wants him to stay.
“He is already putting his squad together for next season and he will make it a priority to keep Dost.”
Van Basten has agreed a two-year deal to replace Ron Jans in his return to coaching after a spell as Holland national team boss.
And he is planning more discussions with Dost before the European Championships in a bid to persuade him to remain with the club.
Dost is the leading scorer in the Dutch league this season with 22 goals and wants the chance to test himself at a higher level.
