Southampton’s on-loan defender Toby Alderweireld wants to stay at St. Mary’s when his loan move from Atletico Madrid ends at the end of the season, according to BBC Sport.
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The 26-year-old Belgium international had made 16 Premier League starts for the Saints since joining on loan from the La Liga champions in September.
Alderweireld has clearly enjoyed his time on the south coast and speaking to BBC Radio Solent on his future he said, “If I could choose then of course I would like to stay here.”
That said though, the defender, who is set to return from a two month injury lay-off against Chelsea, is realistic about his future and knows the decision is likely to be out of his hands when he returns to Madrid in the summer.
He continued, “It’s not up to me. Atletico could decide that they want me back. I have two years left there so it is difficult for me to answer the question.
“I’m enjoying the Premier League, I’m enjoying playing for Southampton – I love the club and I love the supporters.
“We’ll see, I am enjoying it here and my mind and focus is on Southampton.”
The Hampshire club currently sit seventh in the Premier League table with a realistic chance of a Champions League spot, sitting just four points off fourth placed Manchester United.