With or without Champions League football, Tottenham can’t afford to miss a step with their recruitment in the summer.
In previous years, it has hit the headlines for the wrong reasons when signings such as then-club record transfer Tanguy Ndombele have gone horribly wrong.
But it’s fair to say that Tottenham can be trusted a lot better now because they have improved in that department.
The Italian market has served them very well, as players like Dejan Kulusevski, Rodrigo Bentancur, Cristian Romero, Guglielmo Vicario and Destiny Udogie have proven.
But in the summer, Spurs probably secured their best transfer of the lot when they snapped up Micky van de Ven from the Bundesliga.
The London club paid Wolfsburg £43 million for his talents and he has proven to be an outstanding purchase for the club.
Michael Owen shared how he has made a ‘huge impression’ at Tottenham, with his speed and ability to defend huge spaces being a standout, as he told Premier League Productions (07/04/24 at 8:10 pm).
Ange Postecoglou deserves huge credit because is getting serious value out of van de Ven and you feel this is just the start.
The likes of Ledley King have been left surprised by the player, with Owen also sure to give the player his flowers.
Micky van de Ven’s performances
“We have all eulogised over his defensive capabilities this season,” said Owen. “He has been a brilliant signing.
“But I didn’t know he had that in his locker as well (goal v Forest) – he has made a huge impression since he has been at the club.”
Tottenham’s backline
Come the summer, Spurs will still need to invest and bulk up their backline, or else, it could cost them.
Fans don’t have an issue with who is starting, even if they secure Champions League football, but it’s clear depth is required.
Radu Dragusin joined in January and has done fairly well so far, but you sense he isn’t anywhere near his best.
Ashley Phillips is doing well at Plymouth, but will Postecoglou hand him minutes next season?
You feel Phillips should still be part of the squad because there will be more games, but one more centre-back is still needed.
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