Tottenham Hotspur Transfer News: Rafael Van Der Vaart to Leave White Hart Lane?

It appears that the White Hart exodus has begun.

Manager Harry Redknapp is no more and it appears that Dutch playmaker Rafael van der Vaart could also be on the way out of White Hart Lane over the summer transfer window.

According to Mirror Football, van der Vaart is wanted by Schalke in an attempt to join forces with former Hamburg manager Huub Stevens. The two have reportedly been in contact over a possible move, with the international midfielder impressing his former boss.

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"His qualities are unprecedented. I would love to work with him again. We have contacts with his agent. Every day I speak to Horst Heldt [Schalke’s general manager] about our plans.There are rumours circulating that Rafael would return to Germany, but I have not heard from his mouth. I have not spoken with him and we’ll have to see after Euro 2012.

He has a contract so we will have to pay a ransom. If Rafa really wants it, he is welcome. If that opportunity arises, and he looks forward to it, let him come...”

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The real question though will depend on how hard Tottenham Hotspur are willing to fight for the 29-year-old, who would be a bitter loss for the club in the transfer window.

With Luka Modric potentially leaving and Gareth Bale's future at the club a tentative yes, the loss of van der Vaart could potentially kill off any chance that Spurs had of a top four finish and Champions League qualification for next season.

Croatian star Vedran Corluka has already voiced his opinion that national teammate Modric as well as van der Vaart will depart from White Hart Lane following the dismissal of Harry Redknapp—with the aspiration of Champions League football the driving force.

Tottenham's priority must be on keeping the star duo as Euro 2012 draws to a close in order to maintain their status as a genuine contender in the English Premier League.

Van der Vaart netted 12 goals and seven assists for Tottenham last season and finished with the third highest average match rating for the club. He would be a bitter loss for the club, with Schalke expected to increase their interest once Euro 2012 is completed.

Is Rafael van der Vaart set to leave White Hart Lane this summer?

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