Tottenham Hotspur are interested in France defender Benjamin Pavard, according to The Mirror.
The outlet claims that the Stuttgart defender is on Spurs’ shortlist to replace central defender Toby Alderweireld, should the Belgian leave the club this summer.
The report reveals that the 22-year-old’s versatility appeals to Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino, as although Pavard has featured regularly at right-back for his national team France at the 2018 World Cup, the defender can also play centre-back and in midfield.
The Frenchman signed a long-term deal with his current side in December, which ties him to the club for a further three years, but BILD report that he has a release clause of £30.8million in his contract.
Good signing for Spurs?
Debatable.
The Frenchman has been in great form for his country at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, including a stunning goal against Argentina in the knockout stages and looking composed throughout the tournament.
The defender’s versatility is a big plus, he could provide extra options for Mauricio Pochettino, should his side sustain injuries or suspensions.
However, the jury is out on whether the 22-year-old would actually improve the Spurs team, as they have plenty of strong options at right-back, centre-back and in midfield.
This is Futbol rating 6/10
Likely to happen?
With constant speculation around the future of Spurs defender Toby Alderweireld, scouting for possible replacements is good preparation by the club and shows they’re planning for every eventuality.
It all depends on whether the Belgian does indeed leave the club over the next few months. The club will do what they can to keep the 29-year-old but if he leaves, they need to have targets in mind, in order to move for a replacement as quickly as possible.
Pavard seems like he could be a likely option, but the high release clause may be something that puts off chairman Daniel Levy in this instance.
This is Futbol rating 6/10