According to L’Equipe, as cited by GFFN, Tottenham Hotspur have made contact with RB Leipzig regarding the availability of Nordi Mukiele. However, they are not the only club interested in his services, with Atletico Madrid and an unnamed Italian club also monitoring the situation of the Leipzig defender.
Nordi Mukiele: Player profile
Mukiele has enjoyed a rapid rise to prominence following his €16 million move from Montpellier in 2018. He has already notched up 59 competitive appearances for the Bundesliga giants, with 18 of them coming in the league this season. His presence has indeed helped Julian Nagelsmann deal with the injuries of Dayot Upamecano and Willi Orban earlier in the campaign.
A right-back by trade, Mukiele is advertised as a versatile defender. He has been utilised in a back three by Nagelsmann so far, and the Frenchman is yet to disappoint.
His excellent tackling is backed up by the fact that Mukiele has attempted 2.7 tackles per game this season with a success rate of 81%. Also, the defender has averaged 1.6 interceptions and almost two clearances per game, which is indicative of his defensive prowess.
Moreover, Mukiele’s imposing 1.87m has made him an intimidating figure for the opposing attacker, with the 22-year-old winning 1.8 aerial duels per game with a success rate of 75%. Therefore, he is undoubtedly an asset in the defensive unit, as his contributions at the back have been critical in helping RB Leipzig attain the joint-best defensive record in the Bundesliga this season.
Why Tottenham must sign Mukiele
Mukiele could be the answer to Tottenham’s defensive problems next season, given how much the Leipzig star has impressed this term. His defensive commitment and discipline will tune in well with Jose Mourinho’s defence-oriented tactics at Spurs. And this could be essential in helping him settle into the team.
But, what makes Mukiele such an appealing target for the Lilywhites is his versatility. The fact that he can operate not only as a right-back but also a centre-back in a three-man backline would serve as a massive boost for Mourinho, who often rotates his defensive setup.
Mukiele could provide some much-needed competition for Serge Aurier at right-back. Besides, his presence in the side will urge Davinson Sanchez to improve his performances, especially after a horrendous campaign so far. He has already gained a lot of experience at the highest level of football, and at the age of 22, the Frenchman could indeed be a smart long-term investment for Tottenham.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
