Roma ‘hold talks with Jan Vertonghen’ with Serie A side wanting Tottenham defender to replace Chris Smalling

JAN VERTONGHEN could be on his way to Roma if their bid to buy loan star Chris Smalling fails.

The Belgian defender, 33 has been a solid part of Spurs defence after signing for £12million in 2012.

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However, this season could be Vertonghen’s last at the North London club according to Il Messaggero.

The Roma have offered the Belgium international a two-year contract with the potential for a third season at the Stadio Olimpico.

But it’s believed the Serie A giants are only likely to press ahead with a free transfer move for Vertonghen if they are unable to get Man United's Chris Smalling.

Smalling, 30, has been in impressive form for Roma during his season-long loan spell at the club.

The England international has netted twice for the team and provided one assist in 21 Serie A appearances.

Roma boss Paulo Fonseca is rumoured to want Smalling to sign a permanent deal.

However, the fee Man United are believed to be after could be off-putting for the club.

Roma’s rivals Inter Milan and Napoli are also believed to be in the race to sign Vertonghen.

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The Belgium player, who was on the bench during Spurs’ 1-1 draw against Manchester United on Friday, has netted 14 times in 311 appearances for the club.

Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho says he’s keen on keeping Vertonghen until “at least the end of the season”.

Earlier this week Mourinho said: “Jan is a fantastic guy, fantastic professional.

“His love for the club, his respect for the club, is never in doubt.

“We and him want him (Vertonghen) to be with us until at least the end of the season and hopefully Jan and his people and my club can agree that

Jose Mourinho

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"Of course, he's committed with us, of course, he's ready to play.

“We and him want him to be with us until at least the end of the season and hopefully Jan and his people and my club can agree that.

“But speaking now until the end of his contract, in the end of June, he's here to help and of course we totally trust him.”