Ajax defender Jan Vertonghen has revealed he is close to joining Tottenham and believes a deal could be finalised in the next "couple of weeks or maybe days".
The Belgium international has been the subject of speculation linking him with a move to the Barclays Premier League, with Arsenal and Spurs both reportedly interested. Vertonghen has previously stated his preference to join Tottenham and the defender says that move now looks close to completion.
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."
"I am a big fan of the Premier League," he said ahead of Belgium's friendly with England on Saturday.
"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."
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 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."
Source: PA
