De Telegraaf recently voted Ajax Defender Jan Vertonghen Eredivisie Player of the Year. Not all that surprising really considering that the 25-year-old was instrumental in marshalling his side to their 31st Eredivisie title. It’s also not all that surprising that he’s heavily tipped with a move to England in the summer. He’s only got a year left on his Ajax contract, so the talented Belgium International would be available at a fairly reasonable price.
Tottenham seem to have already registered their interest. Speaking to Sky Sports, Vertonghen noted that: “There’s something happening with Tottenham”.
But he was also keen to point out that “there are other clubs interested” and “I have a choice…For me, it is important to get regular playing time. I also need a stable club”.
Harry Redknapp has since played down any claim that a deal is close declaring that Vertonghen is just one of several players that Spurs are weighing up a move for.
The Ajax captain has also found himself linked to Arsenal who he has labelled a ‘magnificent club’. With the Gunner’s defensive record seriously lacking, it wouldn’t be all that surprising if Wenger were to bring in another centre-back to help add a little more stability. The Mail claim that Arsenal could get the Belgium International for as little as £7m. Now that sounds like a Wenger-esque bargain.
Could we be about to witness an Arsenal-Tottenham transfer showdown?
Bearing in mind his claim that his main concern is ‘regular playing time’, which club would suit him best?
Tottenham are in need of another defender. William Gallas is getting on. Ledley King is out on his last legs. Younes Kaboul is good but inconsistent. Yes, they’ll be able to recall Steven Caulker from Swansea City at the end of the season, but is he really ready to help Spurs fight for Champions League football? I’m not so sure.
What about Arsenal? Despite his reputation Thomas Vermaelen has looked a little shaky over the latter half of the season. Per Mertesacker’s injury will require a considerable amount of convalescence and the likes of Johan Djourou and Sebastien Squillaci don’t seem good enough.
Indeed, I think it’s Arsenal who can put Vertonghen’s versatility to best use. The 25-year-old can play in the defensive midfield position as well as in the centre of defence. With Alex Song showing little discipline in the centre of the park, Arsene Wenger may view the Ajax man as a chance to provide Arsenal’s midfield with a little organisation.
Spurs have the likes of Sandro and Scott Parker to keep things tidy in midfield. Arsenal need another defensive midfielder and another defender. To that extent, it strikes me that Vertonghen would be better suited to the Emirates than White Hart Lane.
What’s your take? Where would you like to see Vertonghen play next season?
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With the quality of this player and with the statue of Arsenal, we need players that are hungry for success and Jan Vertongen suite this. And if really wish to come to Arsenal
i wanna see vertongen in pull on arsenal shirt next season
Player has stated he want to sign for Tottenham. Sign young players with an attacking team. Along with Kaboul will make a great defensive partnership. Arsenal have a huge amount of CD’s and although they’d love to move some on, who’s going to pay djorou or schillachi 50k+ pw. Probably seen the Emirates trophy cabinet and decided to move is not all about money !!