Former Premier League player Danny Mills has claimed Tottenham could face a shock departure in the summer. 

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Mills believes veteran defenders Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld could leave the club in the upcoming transfer window.

While Vertonghen has long been linked with a summer exit, the pundit's prediction for Alderweireld might come as a bit of a surprise to Spurs fans.

Last week, Jose Mourinho told Sky Sports that Tottenham "are not going to spend rivers of money" in the transfer market due to the economic uncertainty surrounding the pandemic.

Indeed, Daniel Levy has told the Portuguese he will have to offload players to fund a move for stars like free agent Willian, and Mourinho will have to rely on reduced fees and loan deals as he looks to overhaul his squad.

Mills told football writer Dylan Childs "It is going to be very, very difficult. Spurs’ biggest problem is who they lose. Vertonghen, Alderweireld could well go and they have already lost Eriksen.

"It is going to be interesting to see what happens in the transfer market and who is prepared to spend money with everything that is going on.

"There is always a spin and an argument to justify spending but it will interesting to see how that dynamic fits with fans."

As it stands, it is hard to argue with the pundit here, as Vertonghen is likely to leave as he has already rejected an offer on the table.

The Belgian duo were favourites of Mauricio Pochettino, yet the 33-year-old has lost his place in the starting lineup under the Argentine's successor.

Although Vertonghen has only played 19 games in the Premier League this season, he has shown no signs of slowing down, making 2.1 tackles per game, averaging 1.6 interceptions and completing a staggering five clearances on average (WhoScored).

He is reportedly considering an offer from Real Betis, amid interest from former Chelsea boss Antonio Conte, who is now in charge of Serie A giants Inter Milan.

On the other hand, Alderweireld signed a contract extension in December, keeping him at the club until June 2023.

Furthermore, he recently revealed the appointment of Jose Mourinho had a major influence on his decision to extend his contract.

However, Alasdair Gold has highlighted the importance of Eric Dier, Japhet Tanganga and Davinson Sanchez at the back over the course of the season.

Moreover, Mourinho is well aware he will have to work with a limited budget, and he may be tempted to sell the £21.6m-valued veteran if an offer arrives to spend the profits elsewhere.

Tottenham fans, do you think Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld will leave the Lilywhites in the near future? Let us know down below!