Tottenham told to block Bergwijn exit as journalist reveals official approach – pundit
Alan Hutton has urged Antonio Conte to prevent Steven Bergwijn from leaving Tottenham in January amid reported interest from Ajax.
The former Spurs defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 24-year-old is a “valuable” asset to the Lilywhites.
Speaking on De Telegraaf podcast (24 December) and relayed by Ajax Showtime, journalist Mike Verweij revealed the Dutch giants have made an official approach for the winger and are “really serious” about his capture.
Ajax are reportedly long-term admirers of Bergwijn and have considered making a move in recent years.
As reported by ESPN earlier this month (10 December), Antonio Conte does not see the Netherlands international as part of his long-term plans.
However, Hutton suggested the Italian boss should keep the winger on board next month.
“I would like to see him stay,” Hutton told Football Insider’s Russell Edge.
“I watched the West Ham game and I thought he played really well. Conte said he is backup to Harry Kane. I don’t see him as a striker.
“I see him as one of those two other forward-thinking possessions. He could play on either side.
“If he can get a run of games, keep his fitness levels high, work hard in training, I don’t see why they would want to let such an asset go.
“That is unless Antonio Conte just really doesn’t see him fitting in for whatever reason. We’re not privy to what goes on daily.
“I know he likes his players working 110 per cent every single day. Whether he’s doing that or not, we don’t know.
“But I think on his day, he’s an excellent player who can give you a lot going forward. So that’s why I would want to keep him in the squad.”
Bergwijn made his first start under Conte in the 2-1 League Cup win over West Ham.
He scored his first goal of the season against the Irons, as well as contributing an assist.
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