
Defender
Toby Alderweireld will hold talks with Atletico Madrid over his future next
week, with Southampton, Chelsea and Tottenham all understood to be
interested in his permanent signing.
The 26-year-old Belgium international, who enjoyed a successful loan spell
at Southampton last season, will return to his parent club after duties with
his country to discuss his next move.
Sky sources understand Saints have first option to sign the defender but
Atletico can alter that arrangement via a small payment and create an open
market for the player, who has attracted the interest of a host of Premier
League clubs.
I don't know if Chelsea are interested but I have read a little bit in the
press. Let's see what comes up and I will make a decision. We will see what
clubs come in.
After he played 90 minutes in Belgium's 4-3 friendly win over France on
Sunday, Alderweireld told Sky Sports News HQ: "I will go back to Spain next
week and we will talk.
"We will see what happens. I hope a decision will be made quickly, otherwise
it will be all summer.
"I don't know if Chelsea are interested but I have read a little bit in the
press. Let's see what comes up and I will make a decision. We will see what
clubs come in."
Alderweireld, who signed from Ajax in 2013, is believed to have two years
left to run on his contract and is not thought to have been offered a new
deal by Atletico.
He will feature again for Belgium in their upcoming European Qualifier
against Wales on Friday and he said: "We have to be on our best to win that
game. We have a good squad and good players and we want to be first in the
group."