Jan Vertonghen has hinted that he will leave Tottenham Hotspur in search of a new challenge in Spain or Italy this summer.
The centre-back moved to Spurs from Ajax in 2012 and has made over 300 appearances for the north London club.
However, the 32-year-old has not agreed to a new deal at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium despite compatriot and defensive partner Toby Alderweireld signing an extension in December.
Manager Jose Mourinho has claimed that he would like Vertonghen to follow Alderweireld in agreeing to an extension.
But the Belgium international seems to be set on a move to the continent.
Now he has admitted that he is weighing up rising interest and disclosed he is keen to learn a new language.
“I want to sign with the right club. It could be Spurs, or another club,” Vertonghen told Belgian outlet Play Sports Kot.
"It must be a club with ambition. I want to play in Europe, as the national team is important for me.
"I want to play in Europe and learn another language. Spain and Italy are options. And the duration of the contract will also play a role."
Vertonghen, who has made 118 Belgium appearances, also discussed how the coronavirus outbreak may impact his chances of a move this summer.
Many clubs are set for a quiet transfer window after months without match-day income and television money hurting their finances. As such, big-money marquee signings are predicted to be scarce, even amongst Europe's giant clubs.
However, Vertonghen is available for free after his contract expires on 30 June and he claims the outbreak has only increased interest in his services.
“It might sound weird, but since the corona crisis there is more interest. I’m a free agent and some clubs might not have a lot of money," Vertonghen added.
Vertonghen has made 26 appearances for Spurs this season, scoring twice and assisting once.
