Tottenham Hotspur are now thought to be ‘desperate’ to beat Newcastle United in the race to sign Lille defender Sven Botman this summer.
That’s according to the Daily Star, who claim that a new left-sided centre back is an ‘absolute priority’ for Tottenham.
Tottenham want to appease boss Antonio Conte amid lingering doubts over his long-term future in North London.
Conte wants new signings this summer to know that Tottenham are serious, with Botman now thought to be a key target.
It’s stated that most around the game think Botman is heading for Newcastle this summer, but Tottenham aren’t just stepping aside.
Botman was a top target for Newcastle in January and the expectation is that the Magpies try again this summer.
However, we can now expect Tottenham to make their move for Botman in a bid to give Conte what he wants.
Conte has used a three-man defence throughout his time at Tottenham, converting Ben Davies to play as a left-sided centre back to bring balance to the Spurs back line.
Tottenham don’t really have other options in that specific role though, and that’s why a new signing there is paramount this summer.
Botman is naturally left-footed, though whether he is quick enough to play as a wide centre back in a three-man defence is up for debate.
The Dutchman, 22, is a huge presence at 6ft 5in tall but playing wide in a back three means being dragged out towards flanks and isolated against attackers.
Botman may be better in the centre of a back three with quicker players around him, but that’s not the role Tottenham have in mind.
Branded a ‘machine’ by Jose Fonte, Botman has a huge future ahead of him and Tottenham are seemingly ready to fight Newcastle for his signature.
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