Germany the dream for golden Gypsum Boy

Named as the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia's Player of the Year for 2009, striker Besart Ibraimi has set his heart on a move to Germany but believes "several clubs in Europe" have been monitoring him.

Steady progress
The 23-year-old has made steady progress as he has moved through the national youth teams, performing well at FK Vlazrimi, FK Napredok and – for the last two seasons – FK Renova. Ibraimi has hit his peak this season in the Gypsum Boys' run to the top of the Prva Liga with 12 goals in 16 league games, and his peers have been impressed.

'More motivation'
Ibraimi was delighted to be presented with the country's Player of the Year award, saying: "This is biggest day of my career. I want to thank all my team-mates and my coach because they have played a big part in this award. This gives me more motivation to improve my game. I want to keep playing and I will give everything to get better."

European pedigree
A regular at Under-21 level, Ibraimi has now made five appearances for the senior national team and should have a major role in FYROM's UEFA EURO 2012™ campaign. He also saw action in UEFA club competition this season, scoring both of Renova's goals as they lost 3-2 on aggregate to FC Dinamo Minsk in the UEFA Europa League first qualifying round.

Exciting spell
The next six months are likely to provide more intrigue for Ibraimi, with Renova – from the village of Dzepciste – in pole position to challenge for the league title, five points clear of the chasing pack at the winter break. Whether their star forward remains at the club beyond the transfer window may prove to be an important factor.

Germany calling?
"I want to play abroad," said Ibraimi, who hopes a move further afield can aid his development. "A lot of teams have shown interest in me. I have six months left on my contract with Renova and I will see what happens. I want to play in the Bundesliga but I have been told several clubs in Europe are interested in me."