Jan Vertonghen’s agent Tom De Mul confirmed his client’s contacts with Serie A clubs including Inter and the player’s decision to join Portuguese side Benfica in an interview with Belgian media outlet Sporza earlier today.
“There were contacts with Inter, Roma and especially Napoli, where at one point the negotiations were becoming very concrete. But those three years of contract offered by Benfica in the end were decisive, as was the fact that he could play in the Champions League.”
De Mul revealed how Benfica promised him stability and consistent playing time, important factors for the aging defender.
“Surely Benfica wasn’t his first option at first, but then he started to take it seriously and in the end he became convinced. They offered him stability and continuity, which is fundamental for his career.”
Inter were interested in signing the 33-year-old Belgian defender on a free transfer this summer, as a low-cost option to strengthen their defence and add more experience to the department.
Vertonghen made 30 appearances across all competitions in his final season for Tottenham, for a total of 2250 minutes. IN that time, he scored twice, provided one assist and helped the side keep six clean sheets.
Inter are still looking to sign a new defender this summer, with the top target being Hellas Verona starlet Marash Kumbulla. The Nerazzurri have already reached a personal agreement with the 20-year-old Albanian but still need to reach a deal with the Gialloblu.
