Fredberg: "No deadline for new contract Slimani"

INTERVIEWS Islam Slimani's winter transfer is a long shot. He signed for half a year and the question is growing louder whether Anderlecht should extend his contract. CEO Sports Jesper Fredberg, however, is not to be rushed. "Let's see, regardless of all the emotions, what both parties want in the long term," he said.

Fredberg spoke to the press yesterday upon leaving for Villareal. When asked if he is working on a contract extension for Slimani, he laughed. "First there was criticism when we let him sign. Now because he didn't sign for longer," he grinned.

According to Fredberg, it is not the case that Slimani has to stay anyway because he has already scored five goals. "Of course the possibility does exist," he admits at the same time. Fredberg says Slimani is integrating well and is important for the youngsters.

Anderlecht now wants to see calmly and without pressure what it wants ánd what Slimani himself wants. "Can we make Islam even better and how does he see the future," Fredberg said. So a new contract is an option, but Fredberg does not set a deadline. Just as he also has no fear that other clubs will run with him. "I would be surprised if Islam does not want to stay," Fredberg concludes.