Tottenham Hotspur favourites to sign Serie A defender: Ideal player under Pochettino

Tottenham Hotspur are tipped as the favourites to sign Sampdoria defender Joachim Andersen, according to reports.

The Danish defender has attracted interest from many quarters with his remarkable performances in the Serie A this season and a big money move in the summer could be on the horizon.

As per Independent, Tottenham Hotspur is the likely destination for the Sampdoria star, with the Lilywhites having already made contact with the player’s agent.

Joachim Andersen: The ideal player under Pochettino

It’s probably safe to say that Tottenham Hotspur have one of the most balanced sides in Europe, which has been one of the key reasons behind their success under Mauricio Pochettino.

However, the north London giants might have to brace themselves for a potential overhaul in the defensive department in the coming transfer windows if we consider the likely departure of Toby Alderweireld. The Belgian international has a €25 million release clause that can be activated in the summer and he is likely to be a subject of considerable interest when the transfer window opens.

In addition, Jan Vertonghen will turn 32 before the end of this campaign while young Juan Foyth still needs a bit of time before he can be counted upon as a first-team regular for Tottenham, thus accentuating the need of a new defender. And that’s where Andersen comes into the fray.

Following the departure of veteran defender Matias Silvestre last summer, Andersen has stepped up to the plate for Sampdoria this season, featuring in 23 league games so far.

The 22-year-old’s skillset is one that could help him thrive under Pochettino’s tactics at Tottenham. The player is dominant in the air and fits into the mould of physically imposing defenders currently in possession of Spurs. Indeed, the former FC Twente defender has won 55 headed duels this campaign – more than any other player in the team.

In addition, Andersen has averaged 1.1 tackles and 1.3 interceptions while only six players have surpassed his tally of 109 clearances. This is indicative of his doggedness in defence that could certainly fortify the Spurs backline next season.

But, Andersen’s game is not only limited to defending as the 22-year-old is also blessed with excellent technical quality that allows him to distribute possession from the back. In fact, no other Sampdoria player has completed as many passes as Andersen, who can be utilized as the perfect ball-playing centre-back alongside Davinson Sanchez.

And at the age of 22, Andersen certainly has time on his side and will, thus, be an excellent long-term investment for Spurs as they aim to maintain their push for the Premier League title next season.

Stat courtesy: Whoscored