Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with a move for VfB Stuttgart defender Ozan Kabak as per reports.
Kabak has been on the radar of three of the top six sides in the Premier League for quite some time now, and the German side have put a price-tag of £13.8 million on him as per the Daily Express.
After Stuttgart’s relegation, Arsenal, Manchester United and Spurs have once again turned their heads towards the 19-year-old defender who was recently named the Bundesliga rookie of the season following his impressive performances.
The former Galatasaray centre-back made 17 appearances for Stuttgart this past season, but his impressive performances alongside Benjamin Pavard couldn’t save the club from relegation.
Ozan Kabak would be an exciting player Mauricio Pochettino
The Turkish International is quite talented and possesses a strong aerial prowess and tackling ability. With a 6ft 1in stature, the 19-year-old managed an average of 3.4 aerial duels won, and 2.5 tackles per game.
Kabak’s reading of the game and quick turn of pace helps him deal with even quick forwards. He averaged 1.8 interceptions and 3.7 clearances during the 2018/19 season.
The technically astute defender is also confident in the build-up play from the back as his passing and distribution are solid. Kabak averaged an excellent pass success percentage of 82.1, and also made quite a few forward forays.
Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino, who predominantly deploys his team in a 4-3-3 or a 4-2-3-1 or a 3-5-2, could use a player like Kabak in the squad. The Argentine who has a history of developing young players into world class superstars, is perhaps the perfect manager for Kabak to play under in the next chapter of his career.
Kabak could become the understudy to Toby Alderweireld who has just one year left on his Lilywhites contract and with age catching up to him, the 19-year-old could slot into the Belgian’s role in no time.
The teenager impressed Stuttgart sporting director Thomas Hitzlsperger with his maturity even at such a young age, “It’s incredible how worldy-wise he is for his age.
“It’s astonishing. I see him every day and am amazed at how he mature he is.”
Considering Tottenham don’t have a high budget a player like Kabak, who will cost the club only £13.8 million, would be a shrewd addition.
Stat Courtesy: Transfermarkt, Whoscored