Tottenham Hotspur must keep Hugo Lloris from joining Manchester United, says Jan Vertonghen

Tottenham Hotspur captain Hugo Lloris must be persuaded to ignore the advances of Manchester United and other interested clubs, according to teammate Jan Vertonghen.

The 28-year-old had been touted as a potential replacement for Real Madrid-bound David de Gea, even though the France international has denied claims his contract contains a release clause allowing him to join United for £14.9m.

Lloris signed a new five-year contract last year, but earlier this week admitted he was considering his future after Tottenham again failed to qualify for the Champions League. Spurs finished fifth this term, six points behind fourth-placed United.

"He's a great guy, great captain, great goalkeeper and a brilliant player for us," said Vertonghen, whose Belgium team face Lloris's France in an international friendly on 7 June.

"He's the captain, very important and this season he was one of our best players. He's been outstanding for us and if you want to continue growing as a club you have to keep your best players and Hugo is one of them.

"I hope Tottenham can keep him. It will be a sign for everyone next year that we want to compete in the Premier League."

In Mauricio Pochettino's first season in north London the club qualified for the Europa League for a fifth straight campaign and chairman Daniel Levy insists he will invest in the squad to help push the club towards the top four.

Despite having Victor Valdes in reserve, United are almost certain to reinforce their options in goal if De Gea leaves this summer, ahead of a campaign which, according to manager Louis van Gaal, must yield a title challenge.

Valdes played the final two matches of the Premier League season against Arsenal and Hull City but produced two uncertain performances to raise fears over life after De Dea.