Belgium defender Jan Vertonghen has signed for Benfica following the expiry of his contract at Tottenham Hotspur.
The 33-year old defender has signed a contract which will keep him at the Lisbon club until the summer of 2023.
Vertonghen had made over 300 appearances for Spurs during his eight seasons in North London.
✍️ Bem-vindo, @JanVertonghen! #PeloBenfica pic.twitter.com/gG9CrW2svU
— SL Benfica (@SLBenfica) August 14, 2020
✍️ Vertonghen assinou contrato com o Sport Lisboa e Benfica até 2023!#PeloBenfica pic.twitter.com/3jEraEmCy7
— SL Benfica (@SLBenfica) August 14, 2020
"He will be a great man to play in the Portuguese League. A big professional, a silent leader, an example in a work group," Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho said to Portuguese newspaper Record of the move.
"Fortunately I've met many throughout my career, but Jan is certainly among the best.
"As a player, everyone knows him and the Benfica coach, as well as his structure, certainly analysed everything he can bring to the team.
"I wish him to be very happy in my country. At Spurs we'll all be behind a person who is very dear to us."
Vertonghen announced his decision to leave Tottenham at the start of this month.
"I will miss the friends I’ve made here, the staff that make the club run, playing at the amazing new stadium & of course you fans.
“Thank you for all the support over the years. You’ve been amazing. We had many unbelievable memories but for now, it’s goodbye.”
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