Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly pushing for a move for Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Denis Zakaria this summer.
According to Sport Bild, Tottenham are locked in a three-way battle with Arsenal and Everton to sign the talented Switzerland international.
Denis Zakaria has cemented his status as one of the finest defensive midfielders in the Bundesliga with his displays over the last few seasons. He has made 128 appearances for Monchengladbach in all competitions since his arrival from Young Boys in 2017. But he was plagued by a knee injury last campaign, which limited his time on the pitch.
Zakaria’s contract expires next summer and Monchengladbach are keen on selling him now rather than risk losing him for free. The 24-year-old is reportedly available for a bargain price of £17 million.
Is Denis Zakaria a good fit for Spurs?
Tottenham are well-stocked in midfield but they could offload the likes of Moussa Sissoko and Harry Winks over the next few weeks. Thus, a move for Zakaria makes perfect sense.
The 24-year-old is a physical presence in the center of the park. An extremely powerful midfielder, Zakaria’s primary role is to shield his backline. A strong tackler, Zakaria excels at winning back possession for his side. He has a great engine and can get up and down the pitch at will. Last season, he averaged 1.2 tackles, 0.9 interceptions and 1.2 clearances per game.
Denis Zakaria is also quick and has great technical ability. He likes to collect the ball from his defenders and drive up the field. He has a great passing range and can recycle possession as well as release his teammates with accurate through balls. The Swiss is particularly handy at starting counter-attacks. He averaged 0.8 dribbles and 0.9 long passes per game in the Bundesliga last time out.
Moreover, his versatility means he can be employed as a defensive midfielder, in the box-to-box role, or even as a makeshift centre-back.
Zakaria’s arrival will undoubtedly strengthen Tottenham’s midfield and aid them in their quest to return to the Champions League after missing out for two consecutive seasons. The Swiss is still only 24 and is yet to hit his prime, meaning he could prove to be a valuable long-term acquisition for the north London club. At just £17 million, he is an absolute steal and Spurs should make him their top priority.
