Jan Vertonghen is considering his options, according to the Mirror. The Belgian will turn 33 in April and has been at the club since 2012. His contract with Tottenham Hotspur expires this summer.
Spurs Should Keep Jan Vertonghen for One More Year
Decisions Decisions
The Mirror records some of Jan’s comments on Belgian TV show De Kleedkamer: “I’m in a process right now that I have to grab a piece of paper and write down the pros and cons of the options I will have soon.
“I will really have to decide what I want in my career. In three to four years, I will normally return to the place where I will likely settle down.
“I have to start thinking about where I still want to live, what language I want to learn, what culture I still want to live in.”
Twilight Years
Vertonghen has been an important part of the Spurs defence for 228 Premier League matches. Over this time, he has been consistent, professional and committed in every performance. However, this season he has suffered in terms of finding form and consistency. This was epitomised when Mourinho subbed Vertonghen in the Southampton match. He looked distraught on the bench, and this was mostly due to his own performance. But, it would be difficult to find many Spurs players who haven’t been at fault for less than convincing performances this season.
At 32, Vertonghen is an experienced player who has seen the peak of his career at Spurs. A long-term contract is not on the cards. But, the club should offer him another year at the club. The squad is already lacking depth in some areas; it would be hard to replace Vertonghen’s experience. The likes of Davinson Sanchez and Juan Foyth are still developing their skills. Thus, keeping the likes of Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld at the club would give these players good examples to follow.
Verdict
Tottenham should keep Vertonghen in their squad for another season. His contract renewal is still on the cards, and both parties should work to reach a suitable deal. However, it is understandable that a player in Vertonghen’s later stage of career may want to review his options. This is especially considering that the likes of Eric Dier have re-emerged from the depths to be favoured by Mourinho. But, with the recent injuries stacking up, the defender would still play an important role in the squad regardless.
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