Despite PSG interest, Tottenham can’t afford to cash in on Jan Vertonghen

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Jan Vertonghen has been a regular for Tottenham Hotspur ever since he joined the club in 2012, but reports now appear to suggest that Paris Saint-Germain could look to bring his stay in north London to an end.

The Sun say that Thomas Tuchel is considering the Belgian as one of several options as he looks to strengthen his defensive back-line.

The former Ajax man only has one year remaining on his contract at present and is certainly no spring chicken at 31-years-old, but Spurs would be mad to cash in on him now.

This summer may be the last chance the club have to make a substantial profit by selling the experienced central defender, but he is simply too valuable to allow him to leave at any price.

“I think he is the complete centre-back. We have worked a lot together to reach the level that he is at today. He looks like a 20-year-old because it is easy for him to run – he is like my new dog! Physicality is his talent. It is genetic. He is an athlete and he could play until he is 40 because his physical condition comes very naturally to him.”

Mauricio Pochettino on his defender.

Vertonghen’s excellent technique is ideal for Mauricio Pochettino’s three man defence and despite his advancing years, he has no problem covering plenty of ground, even filling in as a makeshift left-back or left-wing-back and getting forwards at times.

As one of the Premier League’s most respected, his departure, in a transfer window which could coincide with Toby Alderweireld leaving the club, would be a major blow to any transfer hopes.

His experience is also a benefit, particularly alongside youngsters like Davinson Sanchez and Eric Dier. In 2017/18, Sanchez showed his clear potential but at times also showed naivety that Vertonghen has helped to minimise by playing alongside him at the back.

That Vertonghen won the club’s Player of the Year award in May just goes to show how highly valued he is at White Hart Lane and, whilst he may lack the glamour of a Harry Kane, Christian Eriksen or Dele Alli, he is just as important to Mauricio Pochettino.

Moneyball financial theories may suggest that accepting a substantial bid from Paris would be a wise move, but Tottenham would be mad to even consider allowing a key part of their spine depart the club for any amount of money.