Why Tottenham should parts ways with Jan Vertonghen in the summer
Reports from Sky Sports suggest that Jan Vertonghen is keen to discuss a new contract with Tottenham, following the arrival of new manager Jose Mourinho.
Earlier in the month, Daily Mail reported that Vertonghen – along with two other Spurs stars – were set to reject any new contract with the club. Now, things seem to have turned around after a change in their management.
After sacking Mauricio Pochettino, Tottenham appointed Mourinho and since then, they have had better results with the Portuguese in charge. The Lilywhites are currently 10th in the league standings.
Back in 2012, Jan Vertonghen, who earns £100,000-a-week, was brought to north London from Ajax. Since then, the Belgian has been an important figure in the team. Under Pochettino, Vertonghen had his best days but at the moment, he does not look fit.
He was instrumental in Ajax’s back-to-back Eredivisie-winning campaigns along with fellow countryman Toby Alderweireld. His performances have been outstanding for the national team as well and he is quite experienced.
This season, Vertonghen has featured in only 6 league games for Spurs and is yet to make an impact for the team. The fact that he is in the twilight of his career does make the situation more complex.
Frequent injuries in recent times have been a major issue for the 32-year-old. The Premier League gets tougher as the season progresses and things will only get more difficult from here on.
Though he has vast experience, it would be good if both Tottenham and Vertonghen part ways. The Belgian’s contract with the club will come to an in the summer and he would do the right thing by choosing to exit.
With Mourinho at the helm, holding on to Vertonghen will only worsen the dynamics. The Belgian’s age and fitness must be taken into consideration, especially with the young Davinson Sanchez in the mix.
At the moment, Sanchez seems fitter than Vertonghen and can develop into a fine centre-back if he plays regularly. Juan Foyth, another promising defender in their ranks, would be the perfect back-up for Sanchez.
And with reports claiming that Mourinho will be on the lookout for defensive reinforcements in the summer, Vertonghen would find himself further down the pecking order amidst the potential new arrivals.
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Verdict
Coping with the demands of the Premier League is not easy and hence, Vertonghen must exit at the earliest.
His departure could also pave the way for new signings to flourish in Tottenham colours.