Tottenham Hotspur confirm signing of Toby Alderweireld from Atletico Madrid

Tottenham Hotspur have confirmed the signing of Toby Alderweireld from Atletico Madrid on a long-term contract.

The Belgian was heavily linked with a move to Spurs this week, despite Southampton's desire to sign the defender on a permanent deal following last season's loan spell.

There were reports that a switch to White Hart Lane could be delayed due to a legal dispute involving the Saints, who claim that Atletico missed the deadline to cancel a clause that allowed the South coast club to sign Alderweireld permanently at the end of last season.

Despite the legal wrangling, Spurs have announced that the defender has put pen to paper on a five-year deal after a reported fee of around £11m was agreed.

SIGNED: We are delighted to announce the signing of @AlderweireldTob from Atletico Madrid. #WelcomeToby pic.twitter.com/CTThyOs7V7

— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) July 8, 2015