According to Eldesmarque, Jose Mourinho has set his sights on Barcelona’s Nelson Semedo. It is believed that Tottenham Hotspur are willing to pay €36 million to sign the right-back, who is favoured by Mourinho. Semedo himself is keen to move to the Premier League as long as he is guaranteed regular game-time. Barca, however, are looking for a fee of €50 million.
Semedo’s mixed spell at Barcelona
Semedo initially joined Barcelona back in 2017, in a €35 million move from SL Benfica. He was considered as an alternative to Sergi Roberto and a long-term replacement for the long-serving Dani Alves. However, the Portuguese has struggled with a lack of game-time ever since arriving in Catalonia.
Semedo has been largely utilised as a rotation player, notably featuring in just over 1,500 minutes of league football during his debut campaign in La Liga. Injuries have played it’s part, with the defender suffering from a muscle and a hamstring as well as a knee injury during his time at Barca.
This season, Semedo started on a positive note. But, his progress was stalled by a muscle problem and the ex-Benfica star is still yet to start in the league since returning to full fitness.
Can Semedo solve Tottenham’s right-back problems?
Mourinho has appeared overreliant on the services of Serge Aurier this campaign. The Ivorian is currently the only viable option at the disposal of the Tottenham boss. And despite being given chances, he hasn’t really been able to impress either, often lacking consistency in his performances.
Semedo, in that regard, would be an ideal replacement for the ex-PSG star. Although the Portuguese international has often been criticised for his poor defensive positioning, he is, in fairness, quite a well-rounded fullback. He can not only provide the attacking support from the flanks but can also keep check of his marker.
One vital aspect of Semedo’s game is the raw pace that allows him to become a threat on the counter. It also enables him to cover ground quickly. Moreover, the 26-year-old has considerable experience at the highest level of football, having made over 100 competitive appearances for Barcelona.
Therefore, the right-back is unlikely to have any difficulties in integrating himself into the fast-paced nature of the Premier League. And given his style of play, he could be an ideal replacement for Trippier. At the same time, the presence of both Semedo and Aurier would provide Mourinho more flexibility in terms of squad rotation.
