Barcelona want Tottenham's Toby Alderweireld in January

British newspaper the 'The Mirror' are reporting that Barcelona are set to make a January move for Tottenham Hotspur centre-back Toby Alderweireld. 

The 29-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season while Barcelona are, at present, dealing with a shortage of options at the heart of their defence.

Umtiti is expected to be out injured until January, whereas Thomas Vermaelen is out for at least six weeks with an adductor muscle injury. This has left the Catalan club with a void to fill at the heart of their defence, with the club having only two fit central defenders. 

Alderweireld struggled for fitness himself last season with a hamstring injury and lost his place to Davinson Sanchez.

Manchester United were also interested in the Belgium international over the summer, however a switch to Old Trafford never materialised for Alderweireld. 

It is uncertain whether the 29-year-old is unwilling to renew his contract with the London-based club, however a lucrative offer to the Camp Nou may be too good to turn down. 

Alderweireld is no stranger to LaLiga, having played for Atletico Madrid in 2013 making 12 appearances in the league. 

Since regaining fitness, the Belgium has returned to the heart of Tottenham's defence and has played in seven of the club's eight Premier League fixtures this seaosn.