According to a report from Yahoo Sport UK, Tottenham remain ‘open’ to the possibility of sanctioning Toby Alderweireld’s departure this summer. The 29-year-old has been linked with a move away from North London for much of the close season given his current contract situation, with Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United one team reportedly having expressed a keen interest in the centre back.

And with Spurs reportedly ready to let Alderweireld leave this summer, and United one side seeking to take advantage, Mauricio Pochettino’s side should indeed let the Belgium international leave, but only on the condition that they get Anthony Martial in return.

The Breakdown

Ultimately, while the 29-year-old struggled for form and fitness last season, there is little questioning the fact that Alderweireld is one of the best defenders in the Premier League, and as such would benefit pretty much every defence in the top-flight.

He struck up a wonderful partnership with compatriot Jan Vertonghen in helping Spurs finish third in 2016 and then second the season after, on both occasions inspiring Pochettino’s side to the best defensive record of any team in the division.

Thus, United would be receiving a hugely influential player in their own bid to bridge the gap to champions Manchester City, which is why Spurs simply must get something more than just money out of the deal. And that is where the unhappy Martial comes in.

Tottenham have been linked with the 22-year-old for much of the summer given his reported desire to leave Old Trafford, having struggled for regular football under Mourinho last term – that ultimately cost him a place in France’s World Cup squad.

But with 17 goals in his first season in English football, it’s evident that the forward has immense talent and undoubted potential just waiting to be fulfilled, and under the guidance of Pochettino, that may well happen – very few players have regressed under the Argentine.

Thus, with Spurs set to help United out with the sale of Alderweireld, chairman Daniel Levy and the club’s hierarchy must demand something as well as money in return for the influential defender, and with Martial seemingly wanting out of Old Trafford, the 22-year-old is the man they must demand as part of any deal for the Belgian ace.

Tottenham fans… what do you think? Let us know!