Ajax defender Jan Vertonghen has revealed that he could complete a transfer to Tottenham within the next few days.
Ajax man a fan of Premier League and expects to seal switch soon
Ajax defender Jan Vertonghen has revealed that he could complete a move to Tottenham within the next few days.
The 25-year-old has been linked with a move to the Premier League for some time, having caught the eye with his performances in the Eredivisie this season.
He had previously made it clear that joining Spurs would be his first choice, but admitted he did have other options and would not rule out their North London rivals Arsenal.
It now looks as though Vertonghen's dream move to White Hart Lane will become a reality after he told a press conference a deal is close to being finalised.
Speaking ahead of Belgium's friendly against England on Saturday, he said: "I am a big fan of the Premier League.
"It is almost the only competition I watch on TV and for me it is the best competition in the world.
"I would like to play in the Premier League. I am not in contact every day but I think it could be very close now, maybe a couple of weeks or maybe days."
Clear to everybody
Asked if he knew what club he wanted to join, he said: "I probably know which team I will be going to, yes. I know where I want to go and I think it is clear to everybody."
When probed as to whether that club is Tottenham, he nodded and said: "Yes."
Vertonghen seemed taken aback by the amount of interest in his future, especially when news of his impending move broke on televisions in the press conference room.
The defender, though, continued to answer questions in flawless English and insisted that the fact White Hart Lane will not play host to UEFA Champions League football next season is not a major issue.
"It is not that big a problem," Vertonghen said. "It would be nice but I chose for the club not just one season.
"For me it is important the connection with the club. They give me a very good feeling about everything.
"They invited me over and they also really want to close a deal, which is what gave me a good feeling.
"They showed me everything about where they want to be in the next few years and that is what I like most."
Redknapp praise
Vertonghen is likely to line up for Belgium at Wembley and if things had gone differently Harry Redknapp could have been boss of the Three Lions - something the defender is relieved is not the case.
"I met him once and I think he is a good manager," he said. "He was very friendly.
"[I am happy he is not England manager] as I have only heard good things about him and I am happy he stays at Tottenham."
However, the player tweeted after the press conference: "Don't believe everything the press writes. Nothing is confirmed. Still player of Ajax."
