It is no secret that Tottenham Hotspur are going to have a hard time keeping hold of soon to be out of contract players in Christian Eriksen, Toby Alderweireld and Jan Vertonghen. Alderweireld, in particular, has already attracted interest from Juventus and Inter Milan.
In this article, we will discuss why the Lilywhites should target AC Milan star Alessio Romagnoli as they prepare themselves for the potential departure of Alderweireld.
Romagnoli’s success at Milan
A product of the AS Roma youth academy, Romagnoli initially moved to AC Milan in 2015, for a fee of €25 million. He was rated as one of Europe’s most exciting young defenders at that time. And he didn’t disappoint either, becoming a crucial figure of the Milan backline.
Romagnoli made 34 Serie A appearances in his debut campaign at San Siro. Although Milan finished seventh in the league, he played a crucial role at the back that saw the Rossoneri concede only 43 goals.
During his ongoing four year spell at San Siro, Romagnoli has notched up 154 competitive appearances for Milan. He was even rewarded for his performances, with the captain’s armband last summer, following Leonardo Bonucci’s return to Juventus.
What can he bring to the table?
Romagnoli doesn’t exactly share the same style of play with Alderweireld. But, much like the Belgian, the 24-year-old is often reliable when passing out from the back. Although he may not be able to thread accurate long passes, he more than makes for it with his solidity at the back.
Indeed, the Milan captain is an excellent reader of the ball. It allows him to cut off passing lanes as he often likes to move forward and neutralise a counter-attacking opportunity. The Italian international is also a threat from set-pieces, thanks to his 1.88m frame that gives him a considerable advantage in aerial duels.
An ideal replacement for Alderweireld?
Romagnoli is already tipped as the ideal successor for Italy’s ageing defender Giorgio Chiellini. And it could be a perfect time for Tottenham to make a move for the 24-year-old, who has not only the quality but also the experience to become a replacement for Alderweireld.
As described earlier, the Italian international is blessed with a series of defensive traits that could enhance the overall quality of the Spurs backline. But most importantly, he has the leadership material that might be useful, especially with Vertonghen nearing the end of his career.
