Despite finishing above arch-rivals Arsenal for the first time in decades, the Lilywhites surely felt the salt being rubbed on their wound as the Gunners won the FA Cup last Saturday by beating Premier League champions, Chelsea. Tottenham Hotspur have undoubtedly been phenomenal this season, and although an unlikely loss to West Ham United ended their title search, they are an emerging European superpower.
With the first team, that well organised, manager Mauricio Pochettino will hardly need any major transfers to further strengthen his side, except firming up his bench. And with the club looking to dispose of failed defender Kevin Wimmer this summer, Pochettino would need a potential replacement who could replace Jan Vertonghen or Toby Alderweireld as and when needed.
According to reports, Tottenham are looking for something in the region of £17.6 million to let the 24-year-old Austrian international leave this summer. They bought the player from Bundesliga side Cologne for £6.1million in 2015. After 21 league appearances, Wimmer looks unimpressive and could make his way out.
And given the dearth of quality centre-halves in the market, he will definitely be up for grabs. Tottenham are looking to bring in solid replacements as they aim for a stronger European campaign next season. Here are 3 replacements for him this summer:
Michael Keane (Burnley):
Absolutely the most in-demand defender in the summer transfer window, the Burnley enforcer, is a sure departure from Turf Moor after a brilliant display. The Manchester United academy product is wanted by all top sides in the league with Tottenham being one. His disciplined defending and intelligent game-reading definitely makes him a bug level-up from Wimmer, but acquiring him will be equally difficult, especially with five Premier League sides competing in the Champions League next season.
Lamine Kone (Sunderland):
This one should be an easier signing compared to Keane. With Sunderland getting relegated, the Ivory Coast international is surely leaving the Stadium of Light this summer. And with Champions League on offer, he would take it in the first chances. A tireless centre-half, it was Kone’s heroics that saved Sunderland the relegation, the previous season. And he wouldn’t mind fighting at the other end of the table for a change.
Ben Gibson (Middlesbrough):
Another easy buy, Gibson has been a revelation for Middlesbrough. With the Teesside relegated, he would also like to move out as fast as possible. An intelligent defender, the 24-year old could be more familiarised with the likes of Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld. He can read the game brilliantly and reaches the right place at the right time. He played a significant role in Middlesbrough’s impressive defensive record this season and could be a superb addition at the Lane.
