Tottenham transfer news: Jan Vertonghen hopeful Christian Eriksen will stay at Spurs despite Real Madrid speculation

The Dane only has one year remaining on his deal and admitted he was open to a new challenge

Jan Vertonghen remains hopeful teammate Christian Eriksen will remain at Tottenham despite their crushing Champions League final defeat to Liverpool and talk of a move to Real Madrid.

The Belgian defender praised Eriksen, who he has played with since their time at Ajax, with his form enough to make him a priority for Madrid as they bid to rebuild under Zinedine Zidane.

But despite just a year remaining on his contract, Vertonghen remains hopeful the 27-year-old will remain at Spurs.

"Obviously when the transfer window starts there are a lot of rumours, but there were rumours last year and everyone stayed together, so I'm hopeful," he told Sky Sports.

"Christian is a great player. I have known him since he was 16, played with him since he was 16 or 17 [at Ajax] and I hope he's with Tottenham next season.

"He's an exceptional player."

Eriksen meanwhile recently conceded he would be open to a new challenge.

Eriksen featuring in the Champions League final (AFP/Getty) (AFP/Getty Images)

"I have the wildest and deepest respect for everything that has happened in Tottenham, nor will it be negative," the Dane said.

"But I have also said that I would like to try something new."