Southampton could take legal action if Atletico Madrid's Alderweireld is sold elsewhere

Things could get messy if Atletico Madrid sell Toby Alderweireld to a club other than Southampton.

The Premier League club is anticipating the midfielder will arrive at St. Mary's on a permanent transfer before the transfer window closes. Should Atletico choose to sell him elsewhere, Southampton is prepared to take the matter to court, according to The Guardian.

The Belgian international joined Southampton on a season-long loan last season in an agreement that gives them the option to sign Alderweireld for £6.8 million.

However, Tottenham have emerged as a contender to sign the midfielder, with reports suggesting Atletico have agreed to an £11.5-million transfer fee.

If Alderweireld's sold to Tottenham, Southampton may look at taking legal action against the Spanish club. Atletico could have paid Southampton £1.5 million to get out of the agreement, but they are believed to have missed the deadline to do so.