Bent suggests Spurs star will have to look elsewhere after contract rumours

Former Tottenham striker Darren Bent has said that he expects Jan Vertonghen to look for a new club if the Lilywhites are not willing to offer him a two-year extension.

Football Insider revealed recently that Jose Mourinho’s side were preparing to start next season without Vertonghen after the player’s latest contract snub.

It was claimed that the Belgian international, whose contract with Spurs runs out this summer, wanted a minimum of a two-year deal while Spurs were willing to offer just a year’s extension on reduced terms.

The experienced central defender who will become a free agent this summer is reportedly attracting considerable interest with Inter Milan (Standard), Barcelona (Sport) and his former club Ajax (Ziggo Sport) all said to be keen on his services.

Drawing from his own experience, Bent revealed that the 32-year-old will be more concerned about his long-term security rather than just a pay rise.

He expected the player to stick to his demands and leave North London if Spurs are not willing to budge on his contract demands.

Speaking to Football Insider, the former England striker said: “That’s what it always comes to when you’re a senior player it comes down to the length of contract rather than the actual money.

“It’s strange, you tend to want a little bit more security. We understand that there’s a lot of young guys coming up behind you, hungry and waiting to get going, but at the same time, you need to look after yourself.

“When you’re playing on a one-year deal, the club’s always in control because if he has a very good year the club might turn around and say they’re still not going to give you another one. If he’s got a two-year, it’s on his terms a little bit.

“I know what will happen now – if he doesn’t get the second year he’ll have to look elsewhere which I’m sure he wouldn’t want to do.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Unfortunately, I don’t believe Vertonghen has done enough this season to convince the club that he deserves a two-year extension. However, given the looming financial crisis, Spurs could decide that it is worth keeping the defender around for longer rather than spending big money on another centre half this summer.

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