De Boer rules out Alderweireld move, for now

Ajax manager Frank de Boer has dismissed reports linking Toby Alderweireld with a move to Tottenham in January.

The 23-year-old has been touted as a possible target for Andre Villas-Boas for some time, with the Portuguese signing the defender’s former team-mate Jan Vertonghen in the summer.

Now with William Gallas and Michael Dawson both seemingly coming to the end of their time at White Hart Lane, the ex-Porto coach is reportedly keen to re-launch his interest.

However, de Boer said Alderweireld would remain in the Netherlands this season, but could be on the move next year.

“That’s maybe something for next year,” De Boer told reporters when asked about a possible deal with Spurs. “I think he’ll end this season at Ajax.

“We’re very happy with him and don’t want to let him go in the winter, unless it’s a super transfer (fee) , but I don’t think that will happen.”

The asking price for the Belgium international is believed to be eight million pounds, but Spurs also reportedly face competition from Liverpool, Newcastle and Southampton.

Alderweireld is understood to prefer a move to the Premier League, with the likes of Eden Hazard, Vincent Kompany and Marouane Fellaini playing their part in a growing Belgian presence.

Villas-Boas may also have the upper hand, with former club team-mate Vertonghen and national colleague Moussa Dembele playing there.