Toby Alderweireld’s excellent form is one of the few reasons behind Tottenham Hotspur’s impressive run this season. Mauricio Pochettino’s side has reached new heights this term and are one of the title contenders and Alderweireld’s contribution cannot be ignored.
Rumours are hovering around that Real Madrid have taken an interest in the player now. The Belgian has emerged as a transfer target for many clubs but Madrid president Florentino Perez has identified the defender as his primary target and is ready to lure him to Santiago Bernabeu.
Alderweireld was one of the better centre-backs last season, as Spurs conceded just 26 goals and managed to grab a second place in the Premier League.
Tottenham’s stiff wage structure has been a problem for the club and a number of players including Danny Rose have been vocal about this. The left-back gave an unsanctioned interview in which he clearly claimed that he feels he is currently underpaid at the North London club.
Daniel Levy is known for his tough stance on most issues, but this low wage structure will now challenge the Spurs chairman, who is a tough nut to crack. Kyle Walker moved to Manchester City in summer and currently earning much more than what he was getting at his former club.
Talks for a new deal hasn’t been fruitful, although the defender’s current deal is scheduled to expire in 2019. He currently earns in the range of £50,000-a-week at the club, although the club do have the option to extend his contract by a further year. But he wants pay parity with the club’s top earners.
The 28-year old’s agent recently opened up on his client’s future and gave an indication. “Toby is always good. Even after his injury he recovered well. Tottenham’s statistics fell sharply during his absence.
“If you only look at his figures, Toby is impressive and for his performances, he deserves either a correct contract from Tottenham or a transfer.”
So it is clear that wages will be an issue in Alderweireld’s new contract and the attraction from the Bernabeu only makes it tougher for Spurs.
Zinedine Zidane seems to be happy with his squad depth currently but he will need some fresh faces and Perez wants to back him up with some rigorous investment. Inter Milan are also monitoring his situation and could make a substantial offer to tempt him to Italy.
So do you think Spurs can keep hold of the Belgian next summer?
