Rafael Van der Vaart hints Jan Vertonghen deal close

Tottenham Hotspur playmaker Rafael van der Vaart has hinted that Ajax captain Jan Vertonghen is nearing a summer switch to White Hart Lane.

The Belgium international looks set to leave the Dutch champions after playing a key role in the Amsterdam club's title-winning season.

Dutchman Van der Vaart, who came through the youth ranks at Ajax a few years ahead of the 25-year-old, thinks Spurs are leading the race to secure Vertonghen's signature.

The 29-year-old told the Sunday People: "I hope Jan comes to Tottenham.

"As far as I know the deal is close to being done."

Spurs manager Harry Redknapp recently denied that he had made an approach for the centre-back, who can also operate in midfield.