Premier League giants Arsenal and Tottenham could go head to head this summer, for the services of Toulouse’s defensive gem Issa Diop. Both the clubs are keen to secure a quality defender in the summer and as per reports, Issa Diop ranks high in their respective transfer wishlists this summer.
Tottenham, in particular, will be in desperate need of a quality centre back next season, with star defender Toby Alderweireld, being highly linked with a move out of London.
However, Tottenham could face some serious competition from arch-rivals Arsenal as well as FC Barcelona, for the services of this highly talented defender from Toulouse.
The grandson of former Bordeaux player, Lybasse Diop, who was also the first ever Senegalese to play in the French top flight, Issa Diop has been making a strong mark in the Ligue 1 in recent years.
Born in the pink city in 1997, the imposing centre-back has been excellent, to say the least within these last few seasons. The Frenchman is touted by many, as the next big thing in French football, largely thanks to his incredible rise in the French top flight at such a young age.
Despite being only 21 years old, Issa Diop has already featured in over 80 games for Toulouse. In fact, the Senegalese-born French defender was also appointed as the club captain, earlier this season, which proves his credential as a defensive leader at the back.
Highly known for his excellent positioning and aggression in the defensive third of the pitch, Issa Diop is an imposing centre-back, who is not afraid to leave his line in order to press the opposing attackers, much like Marc Bartra. Alongside Christopher Jullien, who plays a more reserved role in the defensive half, Diop often moves forward to help his team in the pressing phases as well as taking part in the build-up play.
Without a doubt, the 21-year-old is tailor-made for Tottenham’s style of play under Mauricio Pochettino. His strong figure coupled with his intriguing style-of-play could make him the perfect replacement for Toby Alderweireld.
Along with fellow-defender Christopher Jullien, Issa Diop has built a formidable defensive partnership this campaign but that being said, his future is in serious doubt, considering the fact that the Violets could well be on the verge of being relegated come the end of the season.
Therefore, the Lilywhites should definitely splash the cash for this highly talented centre-back, who is more than ready to make the next step in his career.
