Tottenham transfer news: Daniel Levy flying to Madrid to negotiate over £10m-plus Atletico centre-back Toby Alderweireld

The Belgian was hugely impressive for Southampton last season

(GETTY IMAGES)

Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy is set to fly out to Madrid later this week to start negotiations with Atletico over the signing of defender Toby Alderweireld, writes Simon Johnson in the Evening Standard.

Spurs are keen to agree a deal with Atletico for the 24-year-old defender, who impressed while on loan at Southampton last season.

Southampton are still hopeful of agreeing a transfer themselves, but Atletico are looking to earn more money from the Belgian's departure.

As part of their loan agreement with Southampton, Atletico had given them first option to buy the centre half this summer for £7m.

But Atletico included a get-out clause which would see them pay Southampton £1.5m in order to have the chance to sell him elsewhere.

It is believed they are willing to do that with Tottenham keen to follow up their interest, now that the transfer window is officially open.

Standard Sport understands Atletico are expecting Levy to travel to the Spanish capital to meet with them and discuss terms.

To make it worth their while, the La Liga club are demanding a minimum of £10m for Alderweireld, which is well within Tottenham's price range.

It is understood Atletico never considered keeping the player after his loan at Southampton expired and have been looking to replace him in the squad with Anderlecht star Chancel Mbemba.

It is believed Alderweireld also favours a move to White Hart Lane, where he can link up with fellow Belgium internationals Jan Vertonghen, Nacer Chadli and Mousa Dembele.