SC Heerenveen are in advanced talks to extend the contracts of two key starting players, defender Maas Willemsen and goalkeeper Bernt Klaverboer. The news, reported by FeanOnline, indicates the club is close to securing the long-term futures of these sought-after talents.
The Frisian side currently sits ninth in the Eredivisie table with four points from three matches. With a goal difference of -1 and recent form reading LDW, maintaining a stable core is vital for the weeks ahead, starting with an away fixture against Willem II on August 30th.
Who are the players staying put?
The 23-year-old defender Maas Willemsen was previously the subject of significant interest from German Bundesliga side VfL Wolfsburg. A transfer to the Germans has not materialised so far. His teammate, 20-year-old goalkeeper Bernt Klaverboer, was linked with a potential move to Italian club Udinese. Despite that foreign interest, Klaverboer has stated clearly in recent interviews that he wants to stay in Friesland. "Hij in Friesland wil blijven," the goalkeeper said.
Why is this important for Heerenveen?
Successfully extending these contracts means Heerenveen can retain two young, talented players who are already first-team starters for the longer term. This provides security in defensive areas, where both central defence and the goal are manned by players with growth potential. It also prevents the club from losing them against their will in the short term. The current squad is listed on our squad page.
How does this fit the current season start?
With four points from the first three league games, Heerenveen are in a shared ninth place. The club trails leaders AZ Alkmaar by five points. Maintaining a stable defence is essential to achieving this season's objectives. The coming weeks, featuring an away match against 16th-placed Willem II, offer a chance to pick up points. The full standings and fixtures provide more context for the manager's planning.
What does this mean for the future?
By tying down Willemsen and Klaverboer now, Heerenveen takes a significant step in the further development of the team. It brings calm and continuity at a stage of the season where every point counts. Focus can now shift entirely to on-pitch performances, without the distraction of ongoing transfer speculation surrounding these players. The club is thereby building a more solid foundation for the coming years in the Eredivisie.
