VDV - Vertonghen deal close

Jan Vertonghen: Has been linked with a move to Tottenham

Tottenham are leading the race to sign Ajax defender Jan Vertonghen, according to Spurs midfielder Rafael van der Vaart.

The Belgium international's agent previously claimed Spurs had made an approach, but manager Harry Redknapp denied talks had taken place.

However, Redknapp did confirm his interest in the 25-year-old, who has a year to run on his Ajax deal but is expected to depart Amsterdam in the summer.

Vertonghen has made no secret of his admiration for both Tottenham and North London rivals Arsenal, while Manchester City, Newcastle and Liverpool have also been linked with the centre-back.

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Dutchman Van der Vaart, who came through the youth ranks at Ajax a few years ahead of the Belgian, claims Spurs are frontrunners for his signature, with the stopper thought to be worth around £8million.

He is quoted as saying by The Sun: "Spurs asked me about him. If he's sensible, he will opt to join us."

The 29-year-old midfielder added in the Sunday People: "I hope Jan comes to Tottenham.

"As far as I know the deal is close to being done."