talkSPORT transfer spotlight: Liverpool target Jan Vertonghen

Name: Jan Vertonghen
Date of birth: 24/4/1987 (24 years old)
Birthplace: Sint-Niklaas, Belgium
Height: 6ft 2in
Position: Centre-back
Club: Ajax (Netherlands)
International appearances: 32
Honours: Eredivisie 2010-11 (Ajax), KNVB Cup 2009-10 (Ajax)
 

What's the latest news?
Reports in Holland suggest that Liverpool are now battling Inter to clinch Jan Vertonghen's signature when the transfer window re-opens in January. Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish is hoping to strengthen his backline and give his side every chance of finishing in the top four this season. Ajax are determined to keep Vertonghen at the club and will be hoping a lengthy run in the Champions League will persuade him to stay with the Dutch giants.

Did you know?
1) The 24-year-old Belgian has been noted for his superb passing, leadership and thunderous left-foot.

2) Vertonghen moved to Ajax from Belgium's Germinal Beerschot in 2003 as a teenager, making his senior squad debut in 2006 before going on loan to RKC Waalwijk, playing in 12 matches and scoring three goals. Returning from loan, he earned a place in Ajax's first team, making over 100 appearances and scoring 18 goals to date.

3) As well as during the 2011 summer transfer window, Vertonghen was linked with a £10 million move to Arsenal in 2010 where he would have joined up with former Ajax defender Thomas Vermaelen. In 2010 he said, "I am ambitious. I want to play in the Premier League. The Premier League is my favourite competition but I need one more year before I am ready." Your year is up Mr Vertonghen.
 
4) Although Belgium failed to qualify for the 2010 World Cup, during the 2009 qualifying rounds Vertonghen played for his country as a defensive midfielder. Known for his versatility, he's also comfortable as a left back.

5) Jan's name became well known in the Netherlands during the 2005/2006 season when he attempted to pass the ball to the opposition's goalkeeper so that an injured played could be treated. Instead, the ball sailed straight over the Cambuur Leeuwarden goalie and into the net, leaving Vertonghen with his hands up, but also a goal up. Watch the accidental goal here:

FURTHER VIDEO EVIDENCE (SCORING A HEADER OFF A LUIS SUAREZ CORNER):