Transfer Centre

Anderlecht eye Bryan Ruiz, Steven Defour

By Michael Penkman, Reporter | 19 December 2013

Anderlecht general manager Herman van Holsbeeck says that the Belgian club are tracking Bryan Ruiz and Steven Defour ahead of the January transfer window.

Anderlecht general manager Herman van Holsbeeck has confirmed the club's interest in Bryan Ruiz and Steven Defour.

The 28-year-old Costa Rican, who joined Fulham from Dutch side FC Twente two years ago, has been struggling with a back injury this season, which has restricted his playing time.

Despite new Whites boss Rene Meulensteen stating that he will get a chance, Ruiz has reportedly opened himself to a return to the Belgian league, where he spent 2006 through 2009 with Gent.

"He is on our list," Van Holsbeeck told Het Laatste Nieuws. "Ruiz is a good player, but not our first choice. Of course we know Ruiz's qualities.

"We have made a list of players who will go to the World Cup, but aren't playing regularly. Ruiz is on it, but so are others."

Answering questions about Porto midfielder Steven Defour, he replied: "Anderlecht will be a good option for him.

"At Anderlecht he will be the star. If he wants to be sure of his place in the Belgian World Cup squad, then we are a perfect option. Steven is an intelligent guy. I think he knows this."

Defour left Standard Liege for Portugal in 2011.