Tottenham Hotspur must strengthen their squad this summer.
Tottenham Hotspur head into the final week of the Premier League campaign looking to consolidate their place in the top four and bring Champions League football to White Hart Lane next season.
Spurs have made progress in Europe as they reached the Champions League last 16, eventually losing to Juventus, but another season of missing out on any silverware has prompted calls for big signings.
Mauricio Pochettino has plenty of talent at his disposal, but beyond the first-team XI there is a distinct lack of top quality and potential game-changers – a luxury their fellow title rivals possess.
Here we take a look at what Spurs’ first-team XI could look like next season should they strengthen with the addition of players that have been linked with a move to the north London club ahead of the summer.
Tottenham have one of the best defensive records in the Premier League, but where they perhaps lack is an attacking threat coming from the left-back area with Ben Davies somewhat reserved when getting forward.
Spurs have been linked with a move for Manchester United’s out-of-favour attacking fullback Luke Shaw, and considering his age and potential ability, he would be a superb signing for the club.
The former Southampton man has struggled under United boss Jose Mourinho, but with the support of Pochettino, he would have a manager who would encourage the player to get forward and show his true ability.
While Spurs are fairly loaded with midfielders, notably Mousa Dembele, Eric Dier, Victor Wanyama, Mousa Sissoko and Harry Winks, it is an area of the team which would be improved.
A report in Spanish editorial Sport last month claims Pochettino will attempt to sign Barcelona’s Andre Gomes this summer, and he’s the sort of signing which may make others sit up and take note.
The former Valencia man has struggled for form at the Nou Camp, but heavy competition means he was always destined to be a bit-part player and he arguably just needs a run of regular first-team football to reach top gear.
Last but not least, Tottenham need to improve in the final third and Manchester United’s Anthony Martial would be a terrific signing when taking into account his attributes are absolutely ideal for Pochettino’s side.
Blessed with pace, energy, power and an eye for goal, he would arguably be an improvement on left forward Heung-Min Son while also providing a genuine top back-up option for centre-forward Harry Kane.
Football London reported Tottenham’s interest in the player last month, but it will be interesting to see if Jose Mourinho would be willing to let a potentially top player join a direct title rival.
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