Tottenham are confident of securing a deal to sign Toby Alderweireld from Atletico Madrid despite reports that Southampton could take legal action to try and sign the defender, sources have told ESPN FC.
The north London club and Southampton have been battling it out to sign Alderweireld, with Spurs chairman Daniel Levy believed to have flown to the Spanish capital to try and thrash out a deal for the 26-year-old Belgium international.
Alderweireld spent a successful spell on loan at Southampton last season and, as part of that loan arrangement, a £6.8 million buyout clause was agreed between the clubs.
Atletico had the option to cancel it by paying Southampton £1.5 million -- but reports suggest that they failed to do so in time.
As it stands, Southampton believe they are entitled to sign Alderweireld and could consider legal action against Atletico should the Spanish club sell him to Tottenham.
Spurs believe any issues are between Atletico and Southampton and that any dispute will not prevent them from landing one of coach Mauricio Pochettino's top targets.
Alderweireld is also thought to favour a move to Tottenham, with the club ready to offer him a five-year deal.
On Sunday, reports said Southampton were expecting to complete a deal for Alderweireld.