OPINION
The headache that is the future of defensive star Toby Alderweireld persists for Tottenham managaer Mauricio Pochettino in the new Premier League campaign, and just what the plan is for the Belgian powerhouse is unclear.
A contract situation which leaves the club facing a £25million sale next summer – thanks to the activation of an extension clause to avoid him leaving on a free – means that January could prove to be the last chance for Spurs to seal the sort of money they want to pick up for his exit.
As for who might come in for the experienced centre back, that also remains to be seen, but it can be expected that a number of Spurs’ top rivals both in the Premier League and Europe will be left chasing his capture, and both Pochettino and club chief Daniel Levy will be reluctant to let him leave for somewhere he could come back and bite them.
As for Alderweireld, he is no clearer on his future, but speaking about potential destinations he did leave the door open for a shock return to old club Ajax, telling De Telegraaf: ” Never say never (to a return).
“At this moment in my career I don’t think about that yet. I think I can go on for years at this level. If I ever did, it is not to take it easy.
“I do not want to be 36-years-old and can hardly walk. When I return, I certainly want to leave something. And not only in the dressing room. I have a bond with the club, because I played football at Ajax for eight years. Achieving championships, the third star, experience.”
Now, Alderweireld might not be thinking about moving back to Amsterdam right now, but Spurs should be pushing the idea quite firmly, for it could prove to be a masterstroke of a move come January.
Tottenham have snapped defenders from the Dutch giants in the past, with Davinson Sanchez and Jan Vertonghen both making the move in recent years, and another swoop, this time as a swap for Alderweireld, could be sealed for top youngster Matthijs de Ligt.
The 19-year-old is one of the most highly rated starlets in Europe today and Spurs have seen themselves linked with a move for the defender – as a replacement for Alderweireld no less.
Spurs might have to forego any sort of transfer fee right now, as well as contributing to his wages, but when you can sign up a future star of world football, as well as preventing your rivals from sealing a deal for your own star, it is a no brainer.
Alderweireld will need some selling on the idea but it is something that could prove to be a masterstroke for the Lilywhites.