OPINION
Tottenham are one of a handful of European giants reportedly eyeing a move for Valencia defender Ezequiel Garay after scouting him in Valencia’s opening La Liga clash on Friday.
Spanish newspaper Super Deporte claimed that Spurs’ talent spotters were in attendance as Valencia edged past Las Palmas in a 1-0 win, thanks to former West Ham striker Simone Zaza’s first-half strike.
It is said that Tottenham are set to do battle with Manchester United, Juventus and Benfica, who were also in attendance to see Argentina international Garay help keep a clean sheet in his first appearance this season.
Spartak Moscow are said to have tabled an offer earlier in the transfer window for Garay, but their offer was rejected as was under the £18.3million valuation.
Tottenham have already completed the signing of former Ajax defender Davinson Sanchez, but they could still be in the market for another summer signing.
This Is Futbol weighs up whether a move to sign Garay is a good one, and if the north London outfit can secure a deal before the end of the transfer window.
Good move for Tottenham?
If Mauricio Pochettino wants to revert to his three-man defence, luring Garay to Wembley could be a great move.
Spurs currently have Toby Alderweireld, Jan Vertonghen and Sanchez as options at centre-back, with Eric Dier preferred in central midfield. Kevin Wimmer is expected be sold.
The Daily Mail claimed on their transfer news blog on Tuesday (10.14am) that Wimmer was the subject of a £15million bid and Garay could be signed to replace the defender.
Garay, if deemed good enough by Spurs’ scouts would add real depth to Pochettino, both in flexibility over formation and as a replacement for Wimmer.
This Is Futbol rating: 9/10.
Likely to happen?
Garay used to play for Benfica and he could be interested in a return to the Portuguese giants after they won the Liga NOS last season over Porto and Sporting Lisbon.
The defender could also be tempted by a move to Juventus, with first-team football likely to come his way after the Italian champions sold Leonardo Bonucci to AC Milan.
Spurs must convince Garay that he will be a regular in the side if they are to beat their competitors in the race.
However, Pochettino’s shared nationality with Garay could give him the edge over his rivals.
This Is Futbol rating: 5/10.