Andre Gomes returned to squad after a long absence just prior to the lockdown (Getty Images)
According to the Sun, Tottenham Hotspur have entered the race to sign Barcelona outcast Andre Gomes in the summer.
Gomes has enjoyed a fruitful loan spell at Everton in the Premier League this season. The Toffees have opened negotiations with Barcelona over the long-term future of the Portuguese international but Spurs have entered the scene as a third-party to pinch the 25-year-old from under their noses. (h/t Sun)
Gomes endured a tough time at Barcelona but he has managed to find his feet at Goodison Park, making a total of 23 appearances in the Premier League for Marco Silva’s side since making his debut against Crystal Palace earlier in the season.
He has proven himself to be a perfect fit for Silva’s philosophy, playing as a midfield pivot in the manager’s preferred 4-2-3-1 system.
His influence has waned a bit following a strong start to the season but he has apparently done enough to convince Everton to make his stay permanent.
Spurs, however, can bag a massive coup if they manage to have the final say in this transfer saga, with manager Mauricio Pochettino on the lookout for a replacement for Mousa Dembele who departed for China in January.
The departure of Dembele has rendered Pochettino short of options in central midfield. Although youngsters like Harry Winks and Oliver Skipp have impressed when given the opportunity, the Lilywhites need a more experienced head at the base of the midfield.
Victor Wanyama certainly fits the bill but the Kenyan is way too injury prone to rely upon. Eric Dier, on the other hand, is really strong but his struggle against fast and agile opposition is quite apparent. Furthermore, Dier’s habit of letting the team down with lapses in concentration doesn’t make him the most reliable option in central midfield.
To put things into perspective, Andre Gomes would be a massive upgrade on all of Spurs’ existing options. The Portuguese international is a much more complete player with well-rounded attributes and there is no reason why he cannot be the ideal replacement for Dembele.
Known for his calmness and composure in possession and wonderful range of passing, Gomes is not only excels with his ball retention skills but he is adept at dictating the tempo of the game as well.
An intelligent footballer blessed with high levels of tactical responsibility, Gomes has a good eye for a pass, whilst also contributing a lot with his tireless running to close down the spaces and win the ball back for his team.
The Portuguese star is not afraid to get his hands dirty and often makes crucial tackles and interceptions to break up the play.
The 25-year-old is not known for his goal scoring prowess but he often plays a big role in the build-up to the goals. He combines his pace and agility with his strength and flair on the ball to make marauding runs and links up effectively with his teammates in and around the box.
Furthermore, Gomes has a sweet right foot that is capable of testing the goalkeeper with powerful shots from range.
To Read More Spurs News, Click Here:- Latest Spurs News
Spurs need more depth and quality in their squad to challenge for silverware on all fronts. The Lilywhites haven’t signed any new players for two transfer windows and it should be high time for them in the summer to invest in a marquee signing.
Andre Gomes is certainly a treat to watch when he is at his best, and that said, they should leave no stone unturned in their efforts to strike a deal for the Portuguese enforcer.