Tottenham Hotspur contemplating a move for Serie A fullback: A smashing addition?

Though Tottenham have had another good season, they stumbled in the semi-final of the FA Cup which has again raised a few questions. Their squad depth is questionable, and so has been the persistent injury troubles of some of their players.

Last season, Danny Rose was exceptional at the left-back position. However, after hinting his future lies elsewhere a few months ago, he has had injury issues and his form hasn’t been the best.

Ben Davies has progressed to become an integral member of the team and has turned up with some excellent performances in the left-back position. With Rose looking to move away from Spurs in the upcoming transfer window, most certainly, Spurs will sign a replacement for the Englishman. Accordingly, reports have linked Inter Milan defender Dalbert with a move to North London.

Dalbert: A traditional fullback

Dalbert’s style of play is quite the opposite when compared to the modern-day fullbacks who like to maraud forward and play virtually as a winger. He is more technically adept, defensively aware and can thwart off attacks with his positioning on the field. Dalbert can spray balls from the flank to his wingers or to the other midfielders at the centre of the park.

The Brazilian’s starting position helps him read attacks effectively and that also allows him to ready himself better as compared to other fullbacks who focus more on the getting forward.

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Dalbert is quite effective and strong, though he might not be offer as much as Rose in the attacking third. In 12 appearances in the league this season, Dalbert is yet to register even a single goal contribution. However, he has won a decent 52% of his defensive duels and has been particularly strong in the air, displaying his aerial prowess.

He has won 63% of his aerial duels and has completed 70% of his take-ons too.

Should Spurs make a move?

It is a very tricky question, to be honest. If you look at it from one perspective, then Dalbert is a very safe backup buy. He would relish working under Mauricio Pochettino and provides good defensive solidity. However, his lack of intent whilst going forward is something that can go against him in this particular transfer. Having followed Pochettino’s career, it is quite visible that he likes his fullbacks to attack and provide an outlet for crosses.

Ben Davies and Kieran Trippier are two players who have always been known for their attacking endeavours and hence they have significantly improved under Pochettino. This is one aspect of the game that does not come naturally to Dalbert and hence it remains to be seen whether Spurs take a risk by going ahead with this transfer.