Arsenal & Spurs face £10m defender fight

Newcastle United have reportedly joined Arsenal and Tottenham in the chase for Jan Vertonghen, according to the Daily Mail.

The Ajax centre-back was reportedly being courted by Harry Redknapp’s Spurs, while Arsene Wenger is credited as being a long-term admirer.

Now Toon boss Alan Pardew is thought to be interested in bringing the Belgium international to the Sports Direct Arena.

All three clubs are thought to be willing to meet Ajax’s reported £10 million price tag.

Gunners chief Wenger has an unprecedented injury crisis in his defensive ranks and has admitted he may need to dip into the transfer market.

Meanwhile Redknapp believes he needs some top quality additions to his squad if Spurs are to maintain their title challenge, and at least secure Champions League qualification.

Pardew has lost Steven Taylor for the season and his side’s previous defensive solidity has disappeared in their last few matches.

Newcastle have also been unable to convince Coloccini and Danny Simpson to sign new contracts, leading to fears they may leave the club.

24-year-old Vertonghen has been in impressive form for the Dutch champions,  now captaining them after winning the title last season.

A versatile left-footer, he can play anywhere across the back line and is also occasionally deployed as a defensive midfielder.

Should he join Arsenal, he would line up next to compatriot and former Ajax team-mate Thomas Vermaelen.