Tottenham Hotspur have been looking at Pau Torres…
What’s the word?
That’s according to The Athletic’s Charlie Eccleshare, who believes that the north London outfit will make another sizeable splash on a central defender but that may not come before this summer’s transfer deadline.
And the Villarreal defender is one name that has been mentioned.
“I still think Tottenham might go big on a centre-back, not in this window but windows to come,” he told GIVEMESPORT.
“At the moment there isn’t really anyone out there that stands out. I know they’ve looked at Pau Torres but they would have done that deal by now if they wanted to.”
Summer-ending coup
Torres reportedly has a release clause of around £50m and would be a mighty addition to Antonio Conte’s squad, one that they must consider moving for before it’s too late.
If the Spain international enjoys another solid campaign, it won’t only be Spurs that will be interested, particularly as Premier League rivals Manchester United and Chelsea have also been mooted in the past.
A Europa League winner in 2021 and a Champions League semi-finalist this year with the Yellow Submarines, Torres has emerged as one of the standout defenders in Europe.
Should Spurs move for Pau Torres?
YES!
NO!
It is his ball-playing and carrying ability in particular that makes him shine above others.
When compared to other centre-backs in Europe, the 25-year-old ranks within the top 9% for progressive passes (4.41) and carries (4.67) per 90, as well as the top 1% for completed dribbles (0.81) per 90, as per FBref.
The Spaniard also ranks amongst the top 3% for non-penalty goals (0.13 per 90), so he can clearly influence the game at both ends of the pitch too.
It’s perhaps no surprise, therefore, to have seen Torres lauded as an “extraordinary talent” by his former youth coach Javi Calleja, whilst national team boss Luis Enrique once dubbed him “sensational” after his display against rivals Portugal last year.
Conte may have brought in Clement Lenglet on loan this summer but given that’s just a temporary deal and the fact that Ben Davies is still starting, he may not be a long-term candidate for the club.
The current starting back three also lack serious quality of depth behind the starters, so there’s always a need for further reinforcements.
As such, sporting director Fabio Paratici could end Spurs’ summer with a big bang by making a move for Torres. Not only would he be getting in ahead of likely competition but he’d be adding a major piece to Conte’s squad for the long run.
AND in other news, Player agrees move: Spurs could seal “decisive” 8th signing but Levy must now pay up…