Once again Tottenham pushed the league leaders, but it wasn’t good enough. Under Mauricio Pochettino, Spurs have been pretty consistent to get into the top four but they don’t have that title-winning team yet.
The circumstances have been difficult for Spurs. They have been helped by some shrewd transfer signings as they didn’t spend big money on the team’s key players – Harry Kane, Dele Alli, Christian Eriksen and Mousa Dembele. However, with Manchester City set to continue splashing the cash in the summer, Spurs will have to find out a way to compete.
After a quiet start to the last summer transfer window, the club managed to get some important deals done in time. The upcoming window could be no different with the World Cup before that.
Reports indicate the club are after Bruno Fernandes. The Sporting Lisbon attacking midfielder has had a remarkable season and has a release clause of €100m. The fee might be too steep for the North London outfit, but in Daniel Levy, they have a good negotiator, so don’t be surprised if you see the price tag substantially reduced.
Fernandes – stats
The 23-year old has played 29 games this season in the Liga NOS. Having played in an attacking midfield position more often than not, Fernandes has mustered nine goals and eight assists which shows that he is a goal-scoring midfielder.
Because he is such a complete player, he’d be a good addition. Not only can he pass, but he has a good burst of speed, can dribble well and is composed in front of goal. He averages at least two key passes a game and gets forward often to test the opposition goalkeeper.
With 2.6 shots attempted per game, it’s hard for the opposition defenders to mark him.
What will he offer?
Christian Eriksen and Dele Alli have played in the attacking midfield role for in the last could of seasons. While the team is pretty strong, the addition of someone like Fernandes will add a goal-threat from midfield and take the pressure off Kane’s shoulders.
Though he has a release clause of €100m, Spurs could get him for cheaper. In today’s market, clubs have to break the bank for even a defender. So, Spurs could be looking at paying at least a €50m for the attacking midfielder.
Stats via Whoscored
