Whilst Tottenham’s summer focus has been squarely on the improving the attack, I hope Andre Villas-Boas has one eye on his defence.
Spurs first choice back-four is among the strongest in the Premier League. But looking past this, towards Tottenham’s squad players, it’s clear that this is an area that could be bolstered.
Younes Kaboul is a fantastic talent, but his injury battles have been a constant, nagging side-show throughout the last couple of years. If he stays fit, I’d back him to have a strong season, but I’m worried that’s he’s going the way of Tottenham legend Ledley King.
Jan Vertonghen impressed last season, but needs to add a bit more consistency to his game. He’s the kind of player who seems to rise to challenges and thrive on competition, so I can only hope that Spurs provide him with this. It’s also worth noting that the big Belgium sprained some ligaments during a recent pre-season game and may spend some time on the sidelines next year.
Dawson is as committed as they come, but doesn’t share the pace of players like Vertonghen and Kaboul. He’ll likely be a first-choice centre-back for Spurs next season, but could also use a little competition to keep him fresh.
With all this in mind and Steven Caulker having moved on, signing another centre-back may well be a necessity for Spurs this summer. As luck would have it, The Express recently claimed that Tottenham have agreed a £6.9m deal for Steaua Bucharest defender Vlad Chiriches.
Now the 23-year-old Romanian just has to agree personal terms with Spurs and undertake a medical. Should this news give fans reason to be excited? I certainly think so and so does Romanian coach Piturca (who also slips in a cheeky dig at Tottenham):
“I hope he can establish himself in England with Tottenham. We have had many examples of players who have failed to establish themselves and have lost their place in the national team.”
“It will not be easy, even if he is extremely good. I am sure he will be able to [establish himself], but it will not be easy because opponents in England are extremely good and must perform very well from game to game. His quality is tremendous.”
Despite the general negativity, the key quote here, is that ‘his quality is tremendous’. Andre Villas-Boas has clearly seen something in the young talent and I’m excited to see him get a chance in the Premier League.
I can only wish him the best of luck and hope that he provides the competition that Tottenham’s back four needs.
Ed Note: Steaua Bucharest’s jailed owner recently told the Press: ‘‘Who are Tottenham? Why can’t they wait? Don’t do the transfer! I’m not selling! I am Gigi Becali!’ Looks like a deal for Chiriches may be more complex to engineer than it was initially thought.
What’s your take? Should Spurs be in the market for Vlad Chiriches?
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They’ve stated in no uncertain terms that he will not be sold in this window so we may look elsewhere…unless by some miracle Steaua’s owner stops being a moron and allows a deal to be done after their CL game.