According to Eldesmarque, Tottenham Hotspur are keen on securing the services of Joao Cancelo. Jose Mourinho has already identified him as a top target as he seeks to add more quality in the defensive department in January. The player himself is keen on leaving Manchester City, though Spurs could face stiff competition for the Portuguese international, who could cost around €60 million.
Cancelo’s struggles at Man City
Cancelo left Juventus in the summer, in favour of a rather shocking move to Manchester City for a fee of €65 million. But, contrary to expectations, he has struggled under Pep Guardiola, primarily due to lack of game-time. While he was signed as the alternative for Kyle Walker, the Catalan has continued to prefer the Englishman ahead of Cancelo at right-back.
As a result, the former SL Benfica defender has mustered only 576 minutes of league football with only six starts. He has been considered as a rotation player while he has been a regular in cup fixture, which is, in fairness, quite unacceptable for a player of his calibre.
Why he must move to Tottenham
Given his struggles since moving to Etihad in the summer, Cancelo will be desperate to get his career back on track. And leaving Man City this January could be a step in the right direction. And Tottenham Hotspur, in that regard, could emerge as an ideal destination for the right-back.
The Portuguese connection between Mourinho and Cancelo could help the defender integrate himself into the fast-paced nature of the Premier League. Moreover, he is sure to become a first-team regular at Tottenham, who have a dearth of options in the right-back slot, especially following the departure of Kieran Trippier.
How Cancelo can benefit Mourinho
From a tactical perspective, Cancelo could be an ideal fit under Mourinho’s style of play at Tottenham. Known for his attacking prowess, coupled with his pace and technicality, the Portuguese international could offer some much-needed flair on the right-hand channel for Spurs.
His work-rate on the far side could help the likes of Lucas Moura or Erik Lamela to operate in a more central area, thus significantly improving their overall involvement in the proceedings. But most importantly, it is Cancelo’s technical prowess that could boost Spurs’ build-up play – making him a viable target for Mourinho.
However, it remains to be seen whether or not the Lilywhites will be willing to splash €60 million on Cancelo in this January transfer window.
