There is massive focus on the Europa League final within Tottenham Hotspur, as the potential of a trophy and a Champions League place hangs in the balance.
Ange Postecoglou faces the prospect of being sacked as the Spurs coach, as the North Londoners sit a lowly 17th in the Premier League after losing 20 of their 36 games. However, he could win Spurs their first trophy in 17 years before departing, with his team set to face Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League final in Bilbao on May 21.
With that being said, plans for the upcoming transfer window is already being drawn up by the Hotspur Way chiefs. The defence is an area that needs a major surgery, particularly after the amount of goals the Lilywhites have conceded and injury problems sustained.
A central defender has to be at the top of the agenda, with intense speculation surrounding the future of Cristian Romero. Radu Dragusin is out with an ACL rupture, while Micky van de Ven has failed to stay fit across two seasons at N17. In addition, the club bosses are seemingly on the lookout for a new right-back.
According to a report from Brazilian outlet UOL, Tottenham are set to battle Barcelona for the signing of AS Monaco right-back Vanderson. Both the clubs are planning to open negotiations with AS Monaco for their star defender. The Ligue 1 club are seeking a fee around £29million for the player.
After three and a half seasons at AS Monaco, Vanderson will be allowed to leave the club this summer in the event of a reasonable offer being received. The Brazilian has been among the most consistent performers at the Principality club in recent years, bagging eight goals and 14 assists in 124 appearances. He has enjoyed another strong season, helping Monaco qualify for the Champions League with a goal and three assists in 28 league appearances.
Tottenham reigniting their interest in Vanderson perhaps comes in the wake of their decision to listen to offers for Pedro Porro this summer. A key member of Ange Postecoglou’s squad, Porro has shone in a season where majority of his teammates have underwhelmed. While their current stance is not to sell, a €60m plus offer could change their mind for the Spaniard. Interestingly, he is also wanted by Barcelona.
At 23, Vanderson would be a smart long-term replacement for Porro. The South American, who can also operate at left-back and as a right midfielder, would help trim down the overall age of the squad and bring healthy competition for Djed Spence next season. He is still developing as a player and should represent a wise investment from Tottenham.
That said, Spurs must go all out for Vanderson’s acquisition this summer.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!