With Harry Redknapp at the helm, it certainly does not take long for Tottenham to commence on their summer transfer dealings. It now appears as though Spurs are already close to confirming their first signing of the close season, with Ajax defender Jan Vertonghen all but certain to complete a move to White Hart Lane in the near future.

The news has come from Vertonghen’s agent, who claims that his client has agreed terms with Tottenham and the only issue is now the financial package between the two clubs. Speaking to Voetbal International, Mustapha Nakhli said, “The clubs are close. I hope it will be this week. I think it will. We are talking to Tottenham.”

It is understood that Ajax are pushing for Spurs to match their valuation of €15 million although with the defender’s contract expiring in 2013, Redknapp is understandably reluctant to meet such an asking price. It appears as though Vertonghen’s agent is thinking along the same lines as well, stating that he also thinks the Dutch outfit are being unrealistic with their price tag: “Fifteen million? Jan has a contract until mid-2013, so what do you think?”

Redknapp has made no secret of the fact that he is a keen admired of the defender, claiming that he is appealed by the fact that Vertonghen can play either centrally or at left back. Moreover, he has praised the Dutchman’s football ability and is understood to be impressed by the way that he looks to play the ball out of defence.

With Ledley King thought to be seriously considering his future in professional football following a series of nasty injuries, it is thought the capture of Vertonghen will provide some stability in the Spurs defence. The fact that there are doubts over the future of Sebastien Bassong and Ryan Nelson at White Hart Lane has also pushed Redknapp to search for extra reinforcement at the back.