Tottenham have extended Toby Alderweireld’s contract by a further 12 months after triggering a clause in his deal.
The Belgium international has been a mainstay of a Spurs side which have become established Champions League regulars under Mauricio Pochettino and are in the thick of the title race following Liverpool’s defeat at Manchester City last night.
Alderweireld was heavily linked with a move to Manchester United last summer, but executive vice-chairman Ed Wooward is understood to have vetoed a deal, harbouring concerns over the player’s injury record and value for money at 29 years of age.
Tottenham were said to be demanding £70million for the centre-half and although they have now safeguarded themselves against the prospect of losing him for free in the summer, his contract now includes a £25m release clause which can be activated in the summer.
United are thought to maintain their interest but will wait to finalise their long-term plan to replace Jose Mourinho before settling on their close season targets, while Inter are thought to be monitoring Alderweireld’s situation. Read more