Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with a move for Yann M’Vila. Do they need him?
French newspaper L’Equipe reported yesterday that Tottenham had bid £15 million for Rennes midfielder Yann M’Vila.
The midfielder has been linked with their North London rivals Arsenal all summer, and like with Jan Vertonghen it would be nice for Spurs fans to get one up on their competitors, but it is hardly the basis for a right-thinking transfer policy.
Still Tottenham haven’t signed a player since the Belgian centre-back signed on July 12, more than one month ago now, and fans are desperate to see new faces.
But is Yann M’Vila a player Tottenham actually need?
The French international is highly regarded, rated as one of the best defensive midfield prospects in Europe. His Euro 2012 experience did not work out as hoped, due to injury and the whole of Laurent Blanc’s team underperforming, but fans have long since learned not to judge players solely on international tournaments.
The future shape of the Spurs midfield depends on Luka Modric’s future – But right now it is probably best for Tottenham to assume he will leave, even though he still remains, and if he remains at the club after September 1 then it will be a bonus as he will have to knuckle down like last season and kick on.
Even if the Croatian does leave, Yann M’Vila is not a like for like replacement in style. Perhaps that is a good move, as AVB will give the side a different shape, but Tottenham are more than blessed in the defensive midfield department.
They have two of the best in the league, in Scott Parker and Sandro. Now right now there are question marks over whether either will be ready to start the season; Parker has already been ruled out until mid-September with an Achilles injury, and Sandro has been on Olympic duty with Brazil.
He ‘should’ be back for kick-off, but much depends on his fitness and Andre Villas-Boas’ plans, which will include a contingency without him.
Sandro proved at the Olympics just why he is so highly rated. He was instrumental as Brazil won the silver medal, playing a key role in their midfield.
He struggled for game time last year with Parker preferred under Harry Redknapp’s management, and still faces a tough competition this coming season.
What Spurs don’t need is to sign a third top player competing for the position. It may sounds illogical, but it would be counter-productive if it restricts Sandro from playing more regularly, and eventually forcing him to look for a move away from White Hart Lane.
What do you think? Is M’Vila needed at Spurs?
image: © apasciuto
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