Reported Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal target Jerome Boateng will be leaving Bayern Munich on a free transfer at the end of the season.
Bayern Munich sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic has told Sky that the German will depart the Bundesliga champions, with Jose Mourinho and Mikel Arteta apparently hoping they can bring him to Spurs and Arsenal respectively.
Bild wrote that Arsenal and Tottenham wanted Boateng in the summer back in January, and the news that he is available on a free may have made him an even more appealing target for the London pair.
“Jerome’s contract expires in the summer. It will not be extended,” Salihamidzic told Sky. “He will leave – hopefully with titles.”
Good for Spurs?
Boateng would certainly offer Tottenham a vastly experienced option at the back.
Spurs have failed to really find a leader of their defence this term, with Mourinho seemingly unhappy with his options at the back.
Tottenham have failed to find a reliable pairing in the centre of their defence all campaign.
Boateng would surely help in that regard, although at the age of 32, there may be questions whether he is past his best.
If Boateng was paired with Toby Alderweireld there could be concerns over a lack of pace between the pair, but he would be able to act as a steadying influence on the likes of Davinson Sanchez and Joe Rodon if he was to arrive.
What about Arsenal?
Arsenal also have had issues in central defence this term, but whether another ageing player would be a wise option is very much up for debate, even though Thomas Muller has called him ‘incredible’ (Bundesliga).
The Gunners already have David Luiz at the club, and Arteta seems to be building a youthful side, meaning Boateng may not fit the club’s policy for recruitment.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
