Work Permit Complications Removed for Fulham and Newcastle Target Douglas

Monday, 27th August, 2012

The race for FC Twente defender Douglas is set to heat up after the player became eligible for the Dutch national team yesterday.

Douglas has a Dutch passport and has now been in Holland for five years, something which makes him all the more attractive to foreign clubs.

Now, despite being born in Brazil, Douglas can move to play in England without being subject to a work permit, and this has increased the chances of a switch to the English Premier League before the summer transfer window closes.

The 24-year-old has been interesting Fulham and Newcastle, and Twente chairman Joop Munsterman has signalled that he can leave for the right price.

Doulgas’ representatives are believed to have already held talks with Fulham, while Newcastle are long-time admirers of the defender and could rival the Cottagers for his signature.

The centre-back moved to Holland in 2007 from Joinville and has since established himself as one of the finest defenders in the Eredivisie.

Losing Douglas would be a big blow to Steve McClaren’s Tukkers but, with the player’s contract set to expire next summer, it would also ensure at least some value is realised from the club’s effort in developing and nurturing the Brazilian.