Tottenham have reportedly asked Barcelona about a possible move for Memphis Depay while in talks to strike a deal for Clement Lenglet – a player that Rafael van der Vaart branded “world class” only in 2021.
Depay, 28, has endured a tricky spell at Barcelona since joining the Spanish giants last summer from Lyon on a free. He signed a two-year deal, scoring 13 goals in 37 games during his first season, but injury hampered his progress.
Since his arrival, Barcelona have brought in Ferran Torres and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang – limiting his game time. A move for Robert Lewandowski could further hinder his inclusion in Xavi’s side. Spurs have asked about him.
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They have been told that a fee of £17million will be enough, and while Depay wants to stay – he is in the final year of his contract. It is said that he will consider clubs in the Champions League – which of course, Spurs are.
Speaking about ex-Manchester United man Depay during analysis of a 4-0 win for The Netherlands over Montenegro in September, van der Vaart branded Depay winning a penalty as “world class” and said he is a fan.
“I’m a fan of his,” Van der Vaart said. “He creates for us, always and in every game. Today I have seen again moments of the ‘old’ Memphis, or the Memphis of Barcelona. We need such a player.
He creates opportunities, gives and is always busy: he’s not one to be lazy either. This action is just world class. Of course not smartly done by that defender, but you do need that action.”
Van der Vaart branded Depay ‘world class’: Tottenham have asked
There is no doubting that Depay is a wonderful player. He proved such at Lyon, with 76 goals and 55 assists in 178 games. He can play up front, on either flank or as a no.10. But do Tottenham really need him?
He would be on big wages, and last season proved that his proneness to injury is growing as he gets older. While he is cheap at £17million in terms of transfer fee, Spurs have surely got to avoid – especially after signing Richarlison.
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