Surprise Prem pair on Tottenham defensive shortlist due to two key traits
Tottenham have added on-loan Fulham defender Joachim Andersen and Brighton centre-back Lewis Dunk to their list of transfer targets, according to a report.
Investing in their defence is a priority for Tottenham ahead of the summer transfer window. Jose Mourinho has struggled to find the right combination at the back this season. As such, he wants to upgrade the role with better options.
As they continue to scour the market, two players currently plying their trade in the Premier League have emerged onto their radar.
According to Football London, Spurs’ centre-back shortlist includes Andersen and Dunk. Both players fit the criteria of being experienced leaders who are tested in the Premier League.
Andersen joined Fulham on loan from Lyon late in the summer transfer window. Despite the Cottagers’ battle against relegation, the Denmark international has impressed.
Three years remain on Andersen’s contract with Lyon, who will be able to command a decent fee for him. Fulham could also try to sign him permanently if they stay in the Premier League.
Lyon seem to be planning for a departure, with director of football Juninho recently admitting: “I think he is going to want to extend the adventure in the Premier League.
“He played well at Fulham, and if he comes back, we’ll greet him with open arms.”
Subscribe for free to TEAMtalk’s daily newsletter…
The fact that Andersen has Premier League experience makes him appealing to Tottenham. The same also goes for Dunk, who has been a key player for Brighton in their rise to the top flight and subsequent consolidation in the division.
The Albion captain has often been linked with a move to a bigger club and Spurs could be a suitor. Mourinho wants an experienced figure at the back, which 29-year-old Dunk certainly is.
Dunk also brings the benefit of being a homegrown player, which would help towards Tottenham’s squad quota.
Dier: I decided to play CB
Eric Dier says he made the decision to switch to a centre-back full-time before Jose Mourinho's arrival at Tottenham.
Another name in contention is Nikola Milenkovic, who seems likely to leave Fiorentina in the summer. He has no Premier League experience, but has been a solid figure in Serie A.
Linked with a number of English clubs, Tottenham will face competition for the 23-year-old. However, with just one year left on his contract, he could be available at a decent price.
Two names who Football London claim are not on the shortlist yet are Southampton’s Jannik Vestergaard and Lille’s Sven Botman, despite previous reports hinting at interest.
Defensive clearout needed at Tottenham?
To make room for any potential signings, Spurs may need to sell one of their current options.
There have been claims that Mourinho does not trust some players currently at his disposal in that position. Therefore, they could be sent away in order to create space for new arrivals.
The report from Football London adds that Juan Foyth is likely to depart on a permanent basis. Villarreal have had him on loan all season and should exercise their option to buy for around £13m.
As for Toby Alderweireld, Eric Dier, Davinson Sanchez and Joe Rodon, there are still some doubts about their capabilities. It is not yet known which is more likely to depart.
There were some rumours about the former earlier this week, though.
READ MORE: Contact made for Tottenham star as rivalry forces suitors into action
