Tottenham confirms Toby Alderweireld transfer to Al-Duhail

Toby Alderweireld expressed appreciation to his teammates, staff and Spurs fans saying, "you made me feel a part of your club from the get-go, thanks to you all and I really want you to know that this club will always be in me and my family’s heart."

Tottenham confirms Toby Alderweireld transfer to Al-Duhail
Toby Alderweireld

Tottenham Hotspurs have announced the departure of their ace defender Toby Alderweireld, who has agreed a move to join Qatari club Al-Duhail SC. 

Toby’s departure has now been confirmed, with the Belgium international set to begin a new chapter of his career in the Middle East for a fee believed to be around £13million.

“We have reached an agreement with Al-Duhail SC in Qatar for the transfer of Toby Alderweireld,” 

“We wish Toby all the best for the future.” a Spurs statement read.

The Belgian centre-back has bid his teammates and Spurs fans an emotional farewell after ending his six-year spell at the north London club.

Alderweireld arrived at Tottenham from Atletico Madrid in July 2015 and leaves the Premier League club having made 236 appearances in all competitions.

The 32-year-old had two years left on his contract but was widely linked with an exit this summer, with new Spurs manager Nuno Espirito Santo linked with a number of new centre-backs.

And the defender sent a message to fans following news of his exit, saying the club will ‘always be in my heart’.

“Six years, two homes, a Champions League final and so many memories,” 

“You made me feel a part of your club from the moment I walked out at White Hart Lane and roared up on, no matter what, into our new special, special stadium.

“Thank you first to the fans and then to my teammates and every incredible member of the Spurs staff, backroom and beyond.

“This club will always be in me and my family’s heart.

“Love Toby.” Toby read the message to Tottenham supporters on social media.

Alderweireld’s exit continues Tottenham’s rebuilding process this summer, with new boss Nuno looking to revamp his squad ahead of the 2021/22 Premier League season.

The sale represents a good piece of business by Spurs, who signed the defender for a reported £11.4m six years ago.