Belgian defender Toby Alderweireld admits that he would prefer to stay in the Premier League next season.

The defender joined Southampton last summer on a loan deal from Atletico Madrid and played an important role in forming one of the meanest defences in the Premier League this season.




While Alderweireld made 26 appearances in the league for Southampton this term, he was only a bit part player in Atletico Madrid’s league title winning team last season.

Atletico Madrid are believed to be keen to see the Belgian return to Spain ahead of next season but Saints boss Ronald Koeman has confirmed that the club are trying to hold on to the 26-year-old.
 


Alderweireld stressed that he will play at a club next season where he feels wanted but admits that after enjoying a fruitful campaign in England, he wants to stay in the Premier League beyond the summer.

relatedNewsStory

"I really want to go to a club that really wants me", Alderweireld told the BBC.

"There are three options – stay with Atletico, stay with Southampton or go to another club. So we will see what happens.

"Southampton gave me that opportunity and it paid off, I think. I've had a fantastic year, I can't lie about that, so, yes, I'd like to stay in the Premier League."

He is also a regular in the Belgian national team and has earned 46 caps on the international stage.

Don't bet on football until you've visited Inside Bet! Interesting markets, top tips, betting facts – get all the info before you bet.