BUENOS AIRES - Dutch giants Ajax are preparing a bid to sign River Plate and Colombia international midfielder Juan Fernando Quintero, according to press reports in Argentina.

The Eredivisie giants are willing to pay up to 15 million euros ($17 million) to secure the 27-year-old before the Netherlands' winter transfer window closes on January 31, the Ole news service reported.

It added that River will be tempted to accept the offer, despite the existence of a 27 million-euro buyout clause in Quintero's contract.

Quintero, who has been capped 21 times for Colombia, returned to football last October - almost seven months after suffering a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament of his left knee.

Earlier this month he underwent cardiac monitoring after irregularities were detected during a pre-season physical examination. River Plate doctors subsequently cleared him of any serious health problems.

Ajax currently lead the 18-team Eredivisie standings, six points ahead of AZ Alkmaar.