OPINION
Tottenham should consider joining the reported race to sign Benfica defender Andre Almeida.
The Sun claim that Crystal Palace and Southampton are currently leading the chase to sign the 26-year-old.
It is understood that both Premier League clubs watched the right-back in Sunday’s Portuguese Super Cup and that Benfica are now braced for bids for the £8million-rated ace.
The report details that Benfica have tried to convince the Portugal international to stay with a contract offer, but he has turned it down and has his heart set on a move to the Premier League.
Spurs should pounce on Almeida’s desire to play in England and try to make him their first signing of the summer.
Mauricio Pochettino is yet to make any additions to his side in the transfer window, but does not a couple of players to complete his squad.
One area the north London club desperately need strengthening is the right-back area, where they are a little light following the sale of Kyle Walker to Manchester City.
Kieran Trippier is currently the only senior option at right-back and limped off injured in their final pre-season match against Juventus.
That leaves England Under-20 World Cup winner Kyle Walker-Peters as the only natural right-back replacement and he is yet to make a senior appearance.
They should turn their attention to Benfica ace Almeida, who would be able to provide great competition for Trippier in the starting line-up.
The right-back is blessed with good pace and has an attacking edge that would fit Spurs’ style, while also looking like he could succeed in the Premier League.
Spurs will be keen to splash out big money on any summer signings and Almeida would be great value for money at just £8million.
His 26 games for Benfica in the Champions League are a major reason in why Pochettino should snap him up and his experience in Europe would be a big bonus.