Manchester United eyeing cut-price move for Tottenham Hotspur defender

Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho has reportedly urged the club to make a fresh attempt to sign Toby Alderweireld when the transfer window reopens.

The Tottenham Hotspur defender was heavily tipped to join the Red Devils last summer but a deal never materialised with Spurs' hierachy having placed a £60m price tag on his head.

Alderweireld has since commanded a regular role at the heart of the Spurs backline but his future remains a concern with his contract expiring at the end of the 2019/2020 season.

Moreover, it is suggested that he has a £25.4m release clause which would be activated during the summer of 2019 and United may take advantage of this situation, Evening Standard reports.

As per the publication, the Red Devils could seek to make a fresh approach at the turn of the year in an attempt to convince Spurs in parting ways with the versatile defender.

It is added that United are optimistic of securing the Belgian's signature for much lesser than £60m sum quoted during the summer amid the defender being reluctant to pen a fresh Spurs deal.

Tottenham are currently fourth in the standings after the first 12 Premier League matches while Manchester United are four points behind them in eighth.