Japhet Tanganga (Getty Images)
According to Evening Standard, Tottenham are planning to hand youngster Japhet Tanganga a new contract that would keep him at the club until 2024.
Having come through Tottenham’s youth system, Tanganga, 21, made his senior bow under former boss Mauricio Pochettino in a League Cup tie against Colchester last September. He was then promoted to the first-team. But he had to wait January to make his Premier League debut, which came in a 1-0 loss to Liverpool.
The youngster has been on the positives in the Lilywhites’ squad this season but had to miss several games due to a stress fracture in his back. He has been impressive in the limited opportunities he has received.
And, he is set to follow in the footsteps of teammates Oliver Skipp and Eric Dier, both of whom have recently committed their future to the club, by signing a new four-year deal. (h/t Evening Standard)
Jose Mourinho’s men have managed to bounce back from the poor start to the season and have managed to reach the 7th position in the league standings. But with just one game remaining, they have failed to qualify for the Champions League.
One of the major reasons for their inconsistency is the lack of stability at the back. The North Londoners have already conceded 46 goals so far and that isn’t good for a team of their calibre. The backline, which consists of Toby Alderweireld, Jan Vertonghen and Davinson Sanchez has disappointed this season.
Youngster Juan Foyth has also not featured under Mourinho and has struggled with injuries. Thus, keeping hold of Tanganga, whose contract was due to expire at the end of next season, is a wise decision by the club.
The England U20 international has been impressive for the Lilywhites so far and made an impression in the game against Liverpool. He was solid at the back and showed his potential. The youngster is also known for his versatility as he is capable of playing anywhere across the back four. And, with the lack of quality at the back, Tanganga’s contract extension is the right step.
Given his recent performances, he can go on to become their leader at the back in the future if he continues to develop himself.
With experience, the 21-year-old could become a better player under the guidance of Mourinho and can soon replace Jan Vertonghen or Toby Alderweireld at the heart of Tottenham defence. The Belgian duo are past their best and Tanganga can be the natural replacement.
With a lack of adequate options at the back, Tottenham are in dire need of centre-backs and Tanganga has already shown his potential. He has been of immense help to the squad on several occasions despite his tender age and can be seen as the future of the Lilywhites’ defence. Thus, a new contract for the youngster is the right step by the club.
