Tottenham transfer news: Which centre backs will return next season?

1. Toby Alderweireld-40% chance to return

This number is certainly a disappointment to Tottenham fans who believe Alderweireld is a world-class defender. It’s quite reasonable to believe he’s just the sort of player Spurs should be building around rather than letting go.

Unfortunately, the financial realities surrounding the club make his summer exit the most likely scenario. He wants to be paid like one of the top centre backs in Europe. Tottenham do not believe they’re in a position to meet those wage demands. That makes a summer sale the most likely outcome.

It’s not impossible that the two sides could find common ground. Alderweireld’s return to the starting XI against West Brom gave Spurs fans a glimmer of hope. Perhaps it was solely a tactical decision by Pochettino to play three at the back, but it could have been perceived as an olive branch by the centre back’s representatives.

Next: Tottenham need to see more of Lucas

In the end, the odds still favour Alderweireld leaving this summer in what should be a big money transfer move. Tottenham can survive without him, but it’s reasonable to ask yourself whether or not they can flourish without Alderweireld in the starting XI.