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Mourinho should work his magic to get this Spurs player to sign a new contract – opinion

Since his introduction to Tottenham Hotspur Mourinho has sent out a clear signal in defence.

Toby Alderweireld has started all three of the managers opening games despite being out of contract in the summer, yet to sign an extension, but told Belgian journalists “I am happy that I’m playing“.

It is a show of faith in a player the Portuguese manager was heavily linked with at times throughout his spell with Manchester United. New personnel in the dugout, who clearly rates the Belgium international’s abilities, might tempt the defender to extend his current deal, and it would solve a lot of potential defensive issues Mourinho could have.

The primary issue is that the contract of Alderweireld’s long term defensive partner, Jan Vertonghen, is also expiring at the end of the season. Juan Foyth does not yet appear ready to take the reins alongside Davinson Sanchez, as the pair lack the equivalent Premier League experience of their Belgian teammates.

If he is only able to hold on to one of the centre backs whose contracts expire, Mourinho should prioritiese the younger of the duo. Alderweireld has made a better start to what could be his final Premier League season and has more to offer long term.

The Belgian pair have nearly identical stats for average tackles, interceptions and fouls per 90 minutes. Still, Alderweireld has completed more clearances and blocks per game in the Premier League, proving his commitment to defending. While the 30-year-old also offers more going forward, with two assists to his name this term to Vertonghen’s none, Alderweireld has a higher average number of passes per game and plays more long balls than his long-term centre back partner.

Of all the players who could leave the Tottenham Hotspur stadium for nothing this summer, Alderweireld should be the one who is most heavily persuaded not to go. Eriksen has been angling for a move away for some time, Vertonghen at 32 is past his best, but Mourinho has coveted Alderweireld for some time and should do everything possible to convince the defender he is at the centre of his plans in North London.

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