Tottenham Hotspur must do everything they can to keep defender Toby Alderweireld at the club if they are to build on the foundations laid under Maurico Pochettino over the last couple of seasons.
Since his arrival from Atletico Madrid, by way of Southampton, he has been a revelation. Spurs had the best defence in the division last year - yes, you read that correctly and this even included conceding five goals on the final day of the season after their dreams of a title were dashed two games previous.
26 games into the current season and Spurs have conceded a league lowest 18 goals although Chelsea have only conceded a single goal more.
3 points and another clean sheet 💪ðŸ¼#Coys pic.twitter.com/zAIPHZWC50
— Alderweireld Toby (@AlderweireldTob) February 4, 2017
Of course, the Belgian hasn't done it all by himself. He has France captain Hugo Lloris minding the sticks behind him and he has formed a formidable partnership with compatriot Jan Vertonghen at the heart of Spurs' defence.
The Belgians are guarded by tackle-machine Victor Wanyama and Mousa Dembele who both anchor the midfield.
Tottenham have renewed most of their top player's contract recently with Harry Kane, Hugo Lloris, Dele Alli and Jan Vertonghen - to name but a few, all signing long term deals with the club this season.
Spurs are preparing to move into a new stadium the season after next and keeping Alderweireld would bring huge certainty to the playing squad when the off-field circus begins.
