Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly identified Toby Alderweireld as the man to fill a hole in their defence this summer.

Despite being out of action with injury in recent weeks, Alderweireld has been a key player for Southampton this season after moving to the club on loan from Atletico Madrid.

Spurs were believed to be keen to sign Winston Reid on a free transfer before the New Zealand international committed his future to West Ham United by signing a new long-term deal earlier this week.

According to The Telegraph, that news has persuaded Spurs to rival Saints for Alderweireld's services when the transfer window reopens.

The report claims that Southampton have the option to secure a permanent deal for £6.8m, but Atletico can buy out that clause for £1.5m to attract a higher offer from another club.

Signing a defender is expected to be a priority for Spurs in the summer as reports continue to suggest that both Younes Kaboul and Vlad Chiriches could leave White Hart Lane.