Timothy Castagne (Getty Images)
According to Foot Mercato (h/t Football.london), Tottenham have targeted Atalanta star Timothy Castagne ahead of the upcoming transfer window.
Castagne, 24, is a product of Genk’s academy and made his breakthrough with the club’s senior set-up in 2014/15. After three impressive seasons, the Belgian made a switch to Atlanta in the summer of 2017, where he has thrived.
So far, in his stint with Atalanta, Castagne has made 89 appearances across all competitions, contributing with 8 goals and 9 assists. And his impressive performances have caught the attention of Tottenham and Leicester also, as per the report.
Meanwhile, Tottenham have endured a disappointing season so far as they are already thrown out of all the cup competitions. They are currently 8th in the Premier League standings and are most likely to miss out on Champions League qualification.
After sacking Mauricio Pochettino, the North Londoners got off to a good start under Jose Mourinho. But the run of positive results didn’t last long. They were on the decline towards the latter stages of the season prior to the league getting suspended.
Injuries to key players including Harry Kane, Heung-Min Son and Steven Bergwijn played a role in their lacklustre performances. But the majority of the blame should go on the defence unit for their inconsistency. Since Mourinho took charge, the Lilywhites have conceded 23 goals in 17 league games.
It clearly indicates that Tottenham need to reinforce their back with a new centre-back. However, the full-back position is also one key area which Mourinho should address in the summer. Serge Aurier is the only first-choice right-back available at the manager’s disposal.
Despite the lack of options, Mourinho loaned out youngster Kyle Walker-Peters in January. The same has been the case on the opposite side of the defence with Danny Rose’s departure, leaving only Ben Davies available at left-back.
In that regard, signing Castagne in the summer would improve their options in defence. The Belgian has proven himself on both sides of the pitch, whilst being able to play in a midfield role also. In 14 Serie A games this term, he has racked up 1 goal and 2 assists but fell a victim to injury for the best part of the campaign.
The Belgian international’s versatility would be a huge boost to Tottenham’s squad. He would provide them with the much-needed depth in the full-back slot. He has been in fine form in the last two seasons and his inclusion would also bring in a healthy competition to the squad.
Tottenham are in dire need of reinforcements to their backline and Castagne could resolve their issues if he is able to replicate the same form he has shown for Atlanta. Thus, Spurs should make a move for the Belgian international before the next season commences.
