According to the Daily Mail, Tottenham Hotspur are in talks with Jan Vertonghen over a potential contract extension. It is believed that the Belgian is keen to prolong his stay in north London by signing a new deal. His current contract at Tottenham expires at the end of the season (via the Daily Mail).
Speaking on Monday, the defender said, “I’m very aware of my age. But I feel fairly young. I want to play as many games as I can at highest possible level. I’m very ambitious. I feel like I still have a couple of good years left in me. That’s definitely how I’m feeling now. I hope I can help the team for as long as I can.”
Vertonghen’s spell at Tottenham
Vertonghen initially joined Tottenham back in 2012, in a €12.5m move from Ajax. He has improved a lot since then, ultimately becoming one of Premier League’s most consistent defenders over the past few years.
During his ongoing seven-year spell at Spurs, Vertonghen has featured in almost 300 competitive matches, 213 of which came in the Premier League. It makes him one of the most experienced defenders playing in the English top-flight at the moment.
Vertonghen’s leadership at the back has played a crucial role behind Tottenham’s monumental growth under Mauricio Pochettino. His versatility has also helped the Lilywhites cope with injuries and suspensions.
Why Should Spurs keep hold of Vertonghen?
Losing Vertonghen for free next summer is unlikely to hurt Tottenham as he arrived from Ajax seven years ago. But, it’s what he brings to the table that could continue to enhance the Spurs backline.
Indeed, the Belgian international is a calming presence at the back. Vertonghen’s excellent ball distribution, coupled with his composure, make him a decent ball-playing centre-back. The ex-Ajax starlet is also known for his well-timed tackles, which allows him to diffuse any attacking move from the opposition.
Most importantly, it is Vertonghen’s leadership that could come in handy for the Premier League giants. Tottenham’s struggles were evident when they played with Davinson Sanchez and Toby Alderweireld in defence earlier this summer. Their form improved only after the return of Vertonghen.
Moreover, the 32-year-old can slot in at the left-back position as well, which could be useful for Pochettino. The Argentine mastermind loves to shuffle his cards and rotate the squad week in week out.
It is believed that Vertonghen will use Moussa Sissoko’s recent contract extension as a bargaining chip in his bid to prolong his stay at Tottenham Hotspur, which could bode well for the player as well as the club.
