Belgian international Toby Alderweireld started his first Premier League game since October 2017 in Tottenham's 1-1 draw away at Brighton on Tuesday night.

The 29-year-old defender has two years remaining on his current deal in north London - but, with clubs queuing up, is expected to leave in the summer.

Contract talks have reportedly broken down following after Spurs refused to meet Alderweireld's wage demands.

He is widely regarded as one of the finest centre-backs in the Premier League but is currently only earning £50,000-a-week.

Mauricio Pochettino commented on Alderweireld's lack of first team football recently, insisting that he is still a Tottenham player.

"Toby is still our player [with a] two-year contract," said the Argentine coach.

"I'm sure he's going to play [before] the end of the season. He's doing well, he’s training and he only needs to wait for his opportunity."

Jamie Redknapp drops truth bomb on Spurs

Kyle Walker left Spurs for Man City last summer and the retired Liverpool midfielder believes this kind of situation is now a "Tottenham trait".

“There’s an argument to say he [Alderweireld] has been the best in the Premier League the last few years,” said Redknapp on Sky Sports.

“He’s a top-level player, a big opportunity for him to come back into the team, maybe even get an opportunity to play in a cup final, so still a lot to play for for him.

“Oh, 100 per cent [he's not playing because of his contract], 100 per cent. That’s what happened to Kyle Walker last season.

“It’s a Tottenham trait, they don’t want to spend top money to keep one of their best players."

Redknapp is spot on - Tottenham will continue to lose their best players unless they change their wage structure.

Grame Souness added: "I think he’s the best one they’ve got in that position.

"I prefer him to [Davinson] Sanchez who is a young man still learning the game. You’ve got the finished article in him at 29.

"It’s a brave move when you think what’s at stake. I think just bite the bullet, accept he’s going to leave but make the best of him while he’s around the place."

Redknapp chimed in: "Or just keep him, give him what he wants."

They've failed to win a trophy since 2008 and must start convincing key players to sign new deals if they intend to start challenging for silverware. 

Harry Kane is Tottenham's highest earner, reportedly earning £100,000-a-week.

Will Daniel Levy scrap the wage structure in order to keep Alderweireld? Let us know what you think by leaving a comment below.