After their recent draw with Wigan Liverpool are now 12 points adrift of leaders Arsenal. Click here for all the latest outright betting.

Afonso Alves is hoping he can soon secure a move move away from Heerenveen.

The prolific striker is set to leave the club with Manchester City, Middlesbrough, Fenerbahce and AZ Alkmaar competing for his signature.

The Brazilian international has returned from a holiday in his homeland and wants his future resolving.

“The last few days I have spent with my family and friends in Belo Horizonte,” he told his own website.

“When I return to the Netherlands I hope to complete my transfer to one of the interested clubs.”

Alves, 26, wants to leave Heerenveen in order to maintain his push for an international place.

“I want to continue my work and stay in the picture with national coach Dunga,” he continued.

“I want to work myself into being a first-team regular with the Brazil national side.”

AZ made the opening gambit in the race for Alves and coach Louis Van Gaal is confident of securing the Brazilian’s signature.

“I think he will come,” said van Gaal – ignoring speculation about the rival interest.

“AZ are complete with Heerenveen and Alves has chosen us. AZ has done everything that it could do.”

After their recent draw with Wigan Liverpool are now 12 points adrift of leaders Arsenal. Click here for all the latest outright betting.