Europe´s elite keeping tabs on Maher

The father of AZ Alkmaar starlet Adam Maher says Barcelona are not the only team keeping tabs on the attacking midfielder.

Ider Maher told Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf clubs such as AC Milan, Manchester City and Lyon had previously attempted to sign the 18-year-old.

Barcelona will reportedly send a scout to the Eredivisie match between AZ and ADO Den Haag on Sunday to have a closer look, but the Catalans will face stiff competition for his signature.

Despite the interest from abroad, Ider Maher stressed the Netherlands under-19 star is not ready to leave the Eredivisie just yet.

“He could have joined AC Milan, Manchester City or Olympique Lyonnais a few years ago,” Maher’s father said.

“It was too early for a move abroad, though – and it still is. Adam is still too young for such a big step. There’s plenty of time to leave in three or four years time.”

Maher’s contract with Eredivisie leaders AZ runs until the end of the 2014/15 season.