Chelsea and Tottenham target Toby Alderweireld keen for Premier League stay

Atletico Madrid defender Toby Alderweireld is hopeful of remaining in the Premier League but admits a decision over whether he will be allowed to join Chelsea, Southampton or Tottenham Hotspur is out of his hands.

Alderweireld impressed during a season-long loan spell at St Mary's last season but is now subject to intense speculation regarding his future.

Both Chelsea and Tottenham are understood to be interested in signing the Belgium international, who would be available to the London pair for £14m ($22m). Should Southampton be able to secure an agreement with Alderweireld, they will have to pay £11m for his services.

After a successful campaign in the English top flight, in which Alderweireld was part of the second best defence in the Premier League, the 26-year-old is keen to remain but he concedes parent club Atletico will dictate where he starts next season.

"The only thing I can say is that I'm happy in England, but it isn't just up to me," he told the Mirror. "I had a fantastic season at Southampton and after I have been on holiday I will talk with Atletico.

"I don't have an answer now, but hopefully Atletico will tell me quickly what is happening. It would be good to come back to England."

Despite possessing the best defence in the Premier League and having three of their regular back four named in the PFA team of the season, Chelsea are actively looking to improve their defence after manager Jose Mourinho confirmed a defender is on his summer shopping list.

Chelsea conceded just 33 goals last season but with John Terry turning 35 before the end of the year and concerns over Gary Cahill's form, Mourinho may be tempted to look to the long term.

Meanwhile, Tottenham endured a campaign undermined by defensive fallibility and midfielder Nacer Chadli has spoken openly about the potential of signing international colleague Alderweireld.

"Toby is also a very good player," he said. "He did very well with Southampton this season, he still has a contract with Atletico. I don't know if they attract him but hopefully [Spurs] can make it.