Transfer Story:
Tottenham Hotspur have made it a point to ensure that they beef up their squad with some quality players ahead of the next season. This time around, they made it to the Round of 16 in the UCL but were knocked out by Juventus as the Italian side sparked a remarkable comeback in the second half of the 2nd leg to leave the Lilywhites heartbroken. Overall, Spurs’ season hasn’t gone as well as they would have liked, especially after last season.
Additionally, there are reports that Mousa Dembele might leave the club, as the board is unable to reach an agreement with the player’s representatives over a contract extension. Dembele has been one of the pillars of the team and is an extremely important player for Mauricio Pochettino. However, as might be expected, in case he departs, Spurs already have a target ready. Bryan Cristante has been regularly linked with them in recent times and the rumour just becomes stronger now considering the tricky contract situation of Dembele.
Bryan Cristante: A Midfield Maestro
Cristante is essentially a central midfielder and is capable of starting in a central attacking midfield position too. He is technically gifted and has made a name for himself with some consistent performances in a tactically astute league like Serie A. Cristante is a good ball-playing midfielder and carries the team ahead aided by his excellent footwork. He possesses a good first-touch and has the vision to distribute the ball in a meaningful manner. Bryan does not shy away from his defensive duties and is a good tackler too. He dives into challenges only when necessary and mostly wins the ball back with his incessant energy and running.
His off-the-ball movement helps the other forwards work on the space created near the penalty box. This season, he has played 31 games in the league and has scored eight goals whilst having created 38 goal-scoring chances too. Cristante is strong in the air and that is one of his primary attributes. Whenever the team goes direct, he is always there in the middle of the park to win the ball. Summing up these qualities, he makes up for quite an ideal midfield player, seemingly suited to the Premier League.
Should Spurs make a move?
Even if Dembele does not leave Spurs, Bryan Cristante would be an excellent addition to the squad and will directly challenge for a starting spot. His abilities in midfield are as good as any current Spurs midfielder and he brings in a certain goal-scoring prowess too; something that the likes of Dembele, Wanyama or Winks can’t replicate. He has every single trait that Pochettino demands from a midfielder and the time might be accurate for the lad to make the move to North London.
Stats Courtesy: Whoscored