According to Sky Sports, Jan Vertonghen is keen to prolong his stay at Tottenham Hotspur following the appointment of Jose Mourinho. The Belgian was eager to extend his contract, which expires at the end of the season, even before the arrival of the Portuguese mastermind. But, it is believed that formal discussions regarding a contract extension are yet to take place between the two parties.
In this article, we will discuss why it might be time for Tottenham to move on and let go of Vertonghen in the summer, with Bayer Leverkusen and AS Roma reportedly interested.
Injuries and lack of form
Vertonghen was one of the most ever-present figures in the Tottenham side ever since arriving at north London back in 2012. But, within the past few years, the defender has struggled with injuries and lack of form. Since 2017, he has suffered from injuries to his muscle, hamstring and ankle that has kept him out on the sidelines for more than five months.
Moreover, Vertonghen has lacked the pace and tenacity that had once made him one of the most sought-after defenders in Europe. His passing has also looked quite clumsy, and the steady decline of his technical ability has been evident. Not to mention, the Belgian international has appeared tentative when dealing with high pressing oppositions.
As a result, Tottenham have lacked the presence of a composed defensive presence at the back. And with Vertonghen nearing the end of his career, it’s not going to get any better anytime soon.
Tottenham need a fresh start
After a successful stint under Mauricio Pochettino, Tottenham Hotspur are now in need of a complete overhaul. They have already completed the first step by hiring Mourinho. Now, they just have to get rid of ageing stars, who will make a minimal impact in the future.
Vertonghen, unfortunately, belongs to that category as he is set to turn 33 years old before the end of the season. His presence in the team, therefore, could block the way for the young guns like Davinson Sanchez or Juan Foyth to earn a more prominent role in the first-team.
As far as a defensive leader is concerned, Toby Alderweireld is much better suited for that job. The ex-Atletico Madrid star is a couple of years younger than Vertonghen but has gained a wealth of experience at the highest level of football. He can, therefore, emerge as the face of the Tottenham defence under the Mourinho era, at least.
As for Vertonghen, a move to Leverkusen, for example, wouldn’t be a bad idea. Die Werkself have been a promising side in recent times and the presence of an experienced figure could help them rise among the elites of German football once again.
