Tottenham Hotspur defender Toby Alderweireld has revealed that he never came close to leaving the North Londoners, despite interest from Manchester United.
Jose Mourinho made it clear to United’s executive vice-chairman that he wanted a commanding centre-half, with Alderweireld listed as one of the targets, but the club was unable to deliver.
The Belgium international has established himself as one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League and he has established quite a stern defensive partnership at Spurs with fellow countryman Jan Vertonghen.
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At international level, the 29-year-old played an influential role in Belgium reaching the semi-finals of the World Cup in Russia this past summer, so it goes without saying that he’s considered hot property.
According to Sky Sports, the Reds made contact with Spurs over a potential deal for the defender, however, the two clubs ultimately failed to agree on terms.
Speaking to Sky Sports on Tuesday, Alderweireld has surprisingly insisted that he did not ever consider leaving Spurs over the summer: “Everyone was saying everywhere that I absolutely wanted to leave Tottenham.
“That’s not true. This summer, I quickly understood Tottenham wanted to keep me. So, I had to battle to get my place back in the team. To be in the first team again is a victory for me.
“I just try to help Tottenham as best I can with my qualities. Regarding my future, everything that was said in the press was not right all the time.”
This will delight Spurs fans but, truthfully, has the opportunity arrived in front of Alderwerield, there’s no way he would have turned United down.
Passion 🔥⚽👊🏼 #COYS pic.twitter.com/guJlZLP0DF
— Alderweireld Toby (@AlderweireldTob) August 28, 2018
