Toby Alderweireld to snub Man City and Tottenham to make Southampton switch permanent

TOBY ALDERWEIRELD is reportedly ready to reject interest from Manchester City and Tottenham in order to complete a permanent move to Southampton.

toby alderweireldGETTY

Toby Alderweireld says he wants to stay at Southampton

The Belgium international is currently on loan from Atletico Madrid, making 18 appearances in total under Ronald Koeman.

Saints agreed a future £6.8million fee with Atletico when Alderweireld made the temporary switch to St Mary's, but the Daily Mail claims that Diego Simeone has the option to cancel the release clause by paying Koeman £1.5m.

It is also reported that Atletico are aware of the interest from City and Spurs, and could be looking to hold out for more money.

But speaking to BBC Radio Solent, Alderweireld stated that if it comes down to him, he would prefer to stay on the south coast.

toby alderweireldGETTY

The centre-back has been out injured since mid-January

If I could choose then of course I would like to stay here

Toby Alderweireld

The 26-year-old explained: "If I could choose then of course I would like to stay here.

"It's not up to me. Atletico could decide that they want me back. I have two years left there so it is difficult for me to answer the question.

"I'm enjoying the Premier League, I'm enjoying playing for Southampton - I love the club and I love the supporters.

"We'll see, I am enjoying it here and my mind and focus is on Southampton."

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