According to Mirror, Tottenham Hotspur are weighing up a move for Diego Godin this summer. The Inter Milan defender has been eyed as a top target as Jose Mourinho looks to shuffle his defensive unit after the end of the season. However, they could face stiff competition from league rivals Manchester United.
Tottenham’s defensive woes
Tottenham Hotspur could be in for a massive overhaul in the defensive department next season. Key defender Jan Vertonghen is running out of contract and has visibly declined over the past few years. Toby Alderweireld, too, has failed to make the desired impact despite being a regular member of the first-team.
Same can be said about Davinson Sanchez. The Colombian international has looked tentative, at times and has struggled without a proper leader playing alongside him. As a result, the Lilywhites have conceded many unnecessary goals that have ultimately affected their results.
Indeed, Spurs have conceded a whopping 40 goals this season – higher (except for Burnley) than any other team in the first half of the table. As a matter of fact, the North London side have already conceded one goal more than what they did throughout the entirety of last season (39).
Is Diego Godin the answer?
Godin’s arrival at Tottenham could undoubtedly be a welcome one among the supporters and coaching staff alike. The Uruguayan is one of the most well-respected defenders in world football, having enjoyed tremendous success at Atletico Madrid under Diego Simeone. He has also impressed during his time at Inter Milan, helping Antonio Conte’s men put up an intense fight for the league title.
Godin is primarily known for leadership qualities, which can be useful for a Tottenham side. He can help the likes of Sanchez while forming a formidable defensive partnership with Alderweireld. He was excellent at Inter, where his combination with Milan Skriniar and Stefan de Vrij has made the Nerrazzuri one of the best defensive teams in Italy.
One could argue that Godin, aged 34, might not be a smart long-term investment for Spurs. However, he has shown minimal signs of decline. In fact, the ex-Atleti captain has accumulated impressive numbers in Serie A, notably averaging 2.2 tackles, 1.8 interceptions, 2.6 clearances and 2.3 aerial duels won per game this season.
That being said, whether or not Inter will be willing to let go of their experienced defender remains a doubt. But one thing is for sure – Godin is a gamble worth taking, as far as Spurs are concerned as they look to usher in a new era under Mourinho next season.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
