TOBY Alderweireld is hoping for a swift resolution on his future, admitting he will miss Saints if he has to go.

The Belgium international has proved to be a simply magnificent signing, establishing himself as one of the most highly-regarded centre backs to have ever played for the club.

Whether or not he is back next term remains to be seen, however.

Alderweireld has been on loan from Atletico Madrid this season, with Saints possessing an option to buy him for about £6.8m.

However, his parent club can cancel that agreement for £1.5m, and sporting director Jose Luis Perez Caminero has already indicated they intend to bring him back.

It is unclear as yet, however, whether or not they will do that with a view to using the 26-year-old themselves next season, or simply so they can sell him for a higher price.

Whatever the case, Alderweireld is hoping the situation will be resolved sooner rather than later.

“The only thing I hope is that the decision will be quickly, so I know where I have to play," he said.

Daily Echo: Toby Alderweireld

Toby Alderweireld

Saints have already been informed by Alderweireld that he would like to stay, and executive director of football Les Reed is attempting to talk to Atletico about bringing the player back to St Mary's.

The club would certainly want to make a push if the Spanish outfit are willing to sell, and it would be a major statement if they could keep him beyond this season.

Alderweireld knows a return is possible, but is also aware that he may be playing elsewhere next season.

If his time at Saints is indeed over, it is clear that he will miss it.

"You never know if it’s going to be Southampton," he said.

"The only thing I can say is I am very happy, I want to thank everybody for giving me this opportunity to play here.

"I love the fans, I love the club, I love, obviously, everything. I had a fantastic year."

Alderweireld told the Daily Echo before the 6-1 win over Aston Villa earlier this month that it did not feel as though that match would be his last home game for the club.

Even after Sunday's final contest of the season, the 2-0 loss at Manchester City, he revealed that he still did not feel as if his Saints career is over.

“I have to be honest, maybe it can be my last game, but it didn’t feel like my last game," he said.

"Maybe because I am a little bit frustrated that we couldn’t win here."