Our Tottenham Hotspur fans here in the Transfer Tavern are hoping to bring in a similar quality of defender should their Belgian star, Toby Alderweirleld, leave this summer.

Indeed, Alderweireld has been strongly linked with a move away from Spurs this year after he is struggling to regain his place in the side following an injury. Surely, our regulars are right in thinking that Mauricio Pochettino may cash in on £36m rated by Transfermarkt defender and trigger Jonny Evans £3m relegation release clause, should the Baggies drop down a division.

However, while Alderweireld would be sorely missed at Spurs, our regulars think that Mauricio Pochettino can find a more worthy replacement than Evans.

Recently Spurs have found themselves in the top-four once again, thanks to Chelsea’s poor form since the turn of the year and their constant progression looks to be continuing. Still, if they harbour any ambition to kick on next season, then a top quality centre-back has to be high on the priority list in the summer.

With that in mind, our landlord takes a look at TWO potential defenders that Pochettino could grab himself a deal should their team be relegated…

Ahmed Hegazi

Jonny Evans’ teammate Ahmed Hegazi is in good form despite the clear struggles the Baggies are facing, having been linked with numerous clubs in the January window, the Egyptian has remained faithful to the West Brom cause.

He’s been a constant high performer for both club and country this season and is a centre-back who likes to clear his lines as quickly as possible. Alongside the likes of Jan Vertonghen, it could prove a perfect foil. Pochettino could definitely remain under the radar with Hegazi and bring in a quality defender on the cheap.

Wesley Hoedt

Southampton man Wesley Hoedt has been one of the main men in the Saints team so far this season and largely impressed our regulars throughout his games played. The Dutch defender likes to pass the ball out of the defence and loves a tackle, much like an old-school defender.

Again Pochettino could take advantage of a Southampton relegation and get a young and impressive player on the cheap come the summer. With Hoedt only being 24, Pochettino could certainly mould him into the player he wants over the years.