According to Guardian, Tottenham have opened talks with Olympique Lyon over the potential transfer of Tanguy Ndombele. However, the Lilywhites are unwilling to meet the club’s staggering €75 million valuation for the midfield. Instead, they want to pay just €50 million, although Ndombele has been linked with a move to a host of top clubs across Europe this summer, including Manchester City and Juventus.
What can Ndombele bring to the team?
Ndombele has enjoyed immense success in the Ligue 1 for the past couple of seasons. Since moving to Lyon on loan from Amiens back in 2017, the Frenchman has become a vital part of Les Gones’ midfield unit, having made almost 100 appearances across all competitions.
The 22-year-old is mainly known for his tenacity in midfield. Indeed, Ndombele offers dynamism in the middle of the park and his willingness to win back possession for his team coupled with his work-ethic makes him one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe. He has notably averaged 1.9 tackles per game this past season.
Additionally, Ndombele likes to venture forward with the ball and create scoring opportunities for his team. He registered seven assists for Lyon and averaged 1.4 key passes per game – an impressive tally for a central midfielder.
The Frenchman can make driving runs into the final third. And his physical prowess allows him to carry the ball across half-spaces, despite considerable pressure from defenders. Most importantly, the 22-year-old has attained a pass completion rate of 89%, which is indicative of his impressive ball-distribution.
Should Tottenham come up with an improved bid for Ndombele?
Tottenham should definitely look to come up with an improved Ndombele given Eric Dier’s recent struggles with both form and injury. The English international hasn’t been consistent enough and has appeared lacklustre with his passing.
As for Victor Wanyama, he too has struggled with injuries. And the Kenyan international cannot be considered as a reliable option in the holding midfield role next season. Ndombele, to that end, could provide Mauricio Pochettino with an excellent alternative.
The Frenchman can be slotted in as the lone holding midfielder in Tottenham’s 3-1-2-1-2 formation. Alternatively, he can also operate in the double-pivot alongside someone like Christian Eriksen or even Dier – depending on the nature of the opposition.
Ndombele’s excellent physique also makes him a tailor-made fit for the physically astute nature of the Premier League. And at the age of 22, he will be able to provide a prospect for the future. Hence, the addition of this French midfielder could make Tottenham title challengers.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
