Jan Vertonghen set to sign for Benfica after Tottenham exit

As reported by Sky Sports, former Tottenham Hotspur defender Jan Vertonghen is closing in a on a free transfer to Portuguese heavyweights SL Benfica.

The 33-year-old Vertonghen brought an end to his eight-year association with Tottenham last month. With his contract expiring at the end of the Premier League season, the Belgian international decide not to renew and departed from the club.

Vertonghen left Tottenham at the end of 2019/20 season

A free agent now, the Belgian international is closing in on signing for Portuguese giants Benfica, as per the report from the Sky Sports. Vertonghen is penned to undergo his medical with the club on Thursday and Friday. He will be signing a three-year contract with the Portuguese outfit, the report adds.

Vertonghen arrived at Tottenham from Dutch giants Ajax in 2012. During his time with our club, the 33-year-old established himself as one of the most reliable defenders in the Premier League. He was one of the key members of our rise under former manager Mauricio Pochettino.

However, the recently-concluded 2019/20 campaign had been a difficult one for the defender. Form and fitness deserted Vertonghen for major parts of the season, which meant he had to make do with a role on the bench than on the field.

The Belgian centre-back departed the club after having made 315 appearances. In the process, he found the back of the net on 14 occasions, while setting up seven goals as well. (h/t Transfermarkt)

The Belgian made 315 appearances for Tottenham (Image credit: Getty)

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A magnificent servant for Tottenham during his time at the club, it’s sad that he could not get a proper send-off from the fans because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Nevertheless, we wish Jan all the best for what lies ahead!