Barcelona eye Jan Vertonghen as Carles Puyol replacement

Spanish giants Barcelona are preparing a bid for Tottenham Hotspur defender Jan Vertonghen, according to reports.

The Catalan outfit could offer up to £17.5m for the Belgium international, who they see as an ideal replacement for retired club legend Carles Puyol.

The Express understands that the Primera Division side still have money to spend in this window, even after buying Luis Suarez from Liverpool for £75m.

However, Tottenham want Vertonghen to stay at White Hart Lane and are said to be preparing a new deal for the central defender.

Meanwhile, Spurs played out a 3-3 draw against Seattle Sounders last night in Mauricio Pochettino's first game in charge.