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Toby Alderweireld helped Atletico win Spain's La Liga title and reach the Champions League final last season

Southampton's on-loan defender Toby Alderweireld says he would like to remain at the club after his spell from Atletico Madrid at St Mary's ends.

The 26-year-old Belgium international has made 16 Premier League starts since joining on a season-long deal from the Spanish champions in September.

And Alderweireld says he would like to make his move permanent in the summer.

"If I could choose then of course I would like to stay here," Alderweireld told BBC Radio Solent.

However, the former Ajax man, who is poised to return from a two-month injury lay-off against leaders Chelsea on Sunday, says the decision is likely to be taken out of his hands when he returns to Spain.

"It's not up to me," Alderweireld added. "Atletico could decide that they want me back. I have two years left there so it is difficult for me to answer the question.

"I'm enjoying the Premier League, I'm enjoying playing for Southampton - I love the club and I love the supporters.

"We'll see, I am enjoying it here and my mind and focus is on Southampton."