Vertonghen will not be joining Barcelona this summer

Tottenham Hotspur defender Jan Vertonghen has once again discussed the interest of Barcelona this summer, but has insisted that he will remain with the English club.

Belgian defender Vertonghen has been heavily linked with a move to Catalan giants Barcelona this summer as new boss Luis Enrique cited a need for a new central defender, following the retirement of Carles Puyol.

Daniel Agger of Liverpool, Marquinhos of Paris Saint Germain have been mentioned, whilst Jeremy Mathieu completed a move to Barca last week, but Vertonghen has been a ever present name in Spanish media.

The former Ajax defender spoke of his delight about being linked to the La Liga side yesterday, but has since spoken to Barcelona-based media giant Mundo Deportivo about his wishes to remain in England with Spurs.

“I would like to stay at Tottenham,” he said.

“The interest of a club like Barcelona is confirmation that you’re doing well. But I consider my contract extension a great sign of confidence.”