• Premier League

Spurs leading the race for Vertonghen

ESPN staff
May 3, 2012
Jan Vertonghen is ready to move to the Premier League © Getty Images
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The agent of Ajax defender Jan Vertonghen has confirmed that Tottenham are among a number of clubs to have made a firm offer for the player.

Vertonghen has attracted strong interest from Spurs and north London rivals Arsenal in recent times, as he has developed into a fine defender while helping the Amsterdam club clinch the Eredivisie title this season.

And the Belgium international's agent, Mustapha Nakhli, has revealed that a number of clubs are interested in signing his client in the summer - with Harry Redknapp's side at the head of the queue.

"There is enormous interest. A number of clubs have made concrete approaches, with Tottenham among them," Nakhli said. "Jan has a few dream clubs. Playing at the top of the Premier League is something he has worked really hard for."

Vertonghen's manager at Ajax, Frank de Boer, believes the 25-year-old has shown a marked improvement in both his attitude and performances in recent times, and is now ready to make the move to the Premier League.

"Jan has seen the light," said De Boer. "Not only on the pitch, but away from it. I have been very critical of him and, at some point, he must have become fond of me.

"His development is wonderful to see. If he leaves, I think it is right. Earlier, I thought it would have been unwise.

"It will not be easy to replace him."

Manchester City, Newcastle and Liverpool have also been credited with an interest in the defender in the past. Vertonghen has one year remaining on his current contract.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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