Chelsea should keep tabs on Jan Vertonghen’s contract situation

With his contract set to expire at the end of the month, Chelsea should keep tabs on Jan Vertonghen’s next move.

It seems as if Vertonghen’s time at Tottenham is coming to a close. While Spurs were eager to sign the centerback to a two-year extension, the question is now “when will he leave?” Over the last eight seasons, Vertonghen has been one of the Premier League’s best defenders, but he’s now fallen out of favor with former Chelsea and current Spurs manager Jose Mourinho.

Vertonghen is set for a free transfer away from Tottenham in the coming months. Chelsea should keep tabs on Vertonghen’s contract situation and reach out to gauge his interest in a move to west London.

A move to Chelsea makes a lot of sense for both the club and Vertonghen, but only if the Blues sign the centerback to a one or two-year deal. Vertonghen wants to maximize his time in a top European league and playing for Chelsea would give him the opportunity to do that before moving abroad. The 33-year-old may not start consistently, but a chance at finally winning an English trophy may be enough to lure him to Stamford Bridge.

Further, Vertonghen would get to stay in London. An underrated aspect of any major transfer is the fact that players have to pack up their entire lives and move to another country. With this transfer, Vertonghen may not even have to move homes. Lastly, playing for one of Spurs’ biggest rivals offers Vertonghen a chance to give Mourinho a metaphorical middle finger. Tottenham is a place the Belgian holds dear to his heart, he was willing to extend his time there until Mourinho stepped in. Revenge is a dish best served on a cold winter night at Stamford Bridge during a London Derby.

On the other hand, the deal makes sense for Chelsea for multiple reasons. Any deal for Vertonghen would be on a free transfer. The Blues are reportedly making big money moves for Timo Werner and Ben Chilwell, so a free signing is exactly the sort of business they would do at the back.

Chelsea should also take a look at the 33-year-old because of the experience he brings to the table. Vertonghen has played in the Premier League since 2012. He’s played 311 matches for Spurs, including Champions League knockout matches and high-stakes matches in title races. The Blues have lost a lot of leadership at centerback over the last few years with John Terry, Gary Cahill and David Luiz all departing the club. Vertonghen obviously cannot make up for all of that experience, but that doesn’t mean he has nothing to offer in the leadership department.

Lastly, Vertonghen gives Chelsea another option along the back line. The rumor mill hasn’t been turning recently for Chelsea and centerbacks the club is linked to. Consequently, it’s time to consider the fact the Blues may not make any additions to the defense aside from a left back. If no new names are purchased, what’s the harm in bringing in Vertonghen for free?

Chelsea’s defense has struggled mightily this season. Despite having options in Antonio Rudiger, Andreas Christensen, Kurt Zouma and Fikayo Tomori, the Blues cannot seem to figure it out. The rest of the season will be telling, but if the struggles continue, Chelsea should consider bringing in a fresh face. Vertonghen is not the answer to the Blues’ centerback problems, but he may provide a temporary—and inexpensive—solution.

The likelihood of Chelsea bringing in Vertonghen is slim-to-none, but it’s a move the Blues should definitely consider. Vertonghen may be the best option for the Blues unless a reliable centerback becomes available for a reasonable price.