Tottenham Hotspur target Stefan de Vrij would be ‘an unbelievable signing’ if they can prise the defender away from Inter, according to journalist Dean Jones.

The 30-year-old has been linked with a reunion with former manager Antonio Conte in north London for several months and could finally make the switch in the summer.

What is the latest news regarding De Vrij?

According to Italian outlet InterLive, Tottenham are keen to sign De Vrij in order to boost their defensive options next season, although they’re expected to face fierce competition for his signature.

The report states that Catalan giants Barcelona are also eager to secure his services and could offer Memphis Depay as part of the deal to bring him to Camp Nou.

De Vrij – who is valued at £40.5m by Transfermarkt – has just under 18 months left on his current contract at San Siro and has so far shown no signs of putting pen to paper on fresh terms.

Last season, the 55-cap Netherlands international formed a formidable partnership alongside Alessandro Bastoni and Milan Skriniar as the Nerazzurri claimed their first Serie A title in 11 years.

No side in the Italian top-flight conceded fewer goals than the 35 they leaked on their way to silverware, and De Vrij has continued to be a mainstay in the starting XI under new boss Simone Inzaghi, featuring from the off in 21 league games.

What has Jones said about De Vrij?

De Vrij has established himself as an elite-level centre-back in recent years, making over 200 appearances in Serie A.

Rio Ferdinand SLAMS Marcus Rashford! Hear more on The Football Terrace...

And Jones believes he would ‘fit perfectly’ with what Spurs are intending to do under Conte’s stewardship over the next few years.

He told GiveMeSport: “If they can get De Vrij, I think that would be an unbelievable signing and would fit perfectly for where they want to go in the next couple of years.”

Would De Vrij be a good signing?

Since Conte succeeded Nuno Espirito Santo back in November, Tottenham have had mixed success, pulling off memorable victories over Manchester City, Leeds United and Everton while suffering damaging defeats to the likes of Middlesbrough, Burnley and Wolves.

As a result, Spurs have been linked to several potential centre-back targets, but De Vrij could be the most ideal option out there for the capital club.

The 6 foot 2 ace played 88 times under Conte during their time together at Inter, and would perhaps be able to adapt to the Italian tactician’s unique demands with ease once again, allowing Spurs to progress at a faster rate.