According to Nieuwsblad, Tottenham Hotspur are among the clubs interested in Timothy Castagne. The Atalanta defender is reportedly favoured by the club’s chairman, Daniel Levy, with the player also preparing for a summer exit. However, Spurs could face stiff competition from Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan in the pursuit of Castagne, whose contract expires in 2021.
Tottenham’s right-back conundrum
Tottenham Hotspur has had a myriad of problems in their defensive unit this season. Especially in the right-back department, they have struggled to replace Kieran Trippier, who left the club in favour of a move to Atletico Madrid last summer. His departure created a massive void in the RB slot, with Spurs failing to sign a proper replacement in the corresponding summer.
As a result, Mauricio Pochettino was forced to rely on Kyle Walker-Peters. And while the youngster did a good job, his progress was halted by an injury before he lost his place in the side to Serge Aurier. Since then, the Ivorian has become an ever-present figure in the Tottenham lineup, especially after Jose Mourinho was appointed as the manager.
However, his inconsistent performances have left a lot to be desired. The ex-PSG star has also had problem fitting into the RB slot properly due to his tendency to march forward with the ball that has forced Mourinho to utilise him in a more advanced role.
Therefore, Spurs must sign a new right-back in the upcoming summer transfer window if they are to solve their defensive problems next season truly. A viable alternative to Aurier should be enough to strengthen a right-back unit that has otherwise looked very incompetent.
Tottenham Hotspur are among clubs interested in Timothy Castagne: A wise option for Jose?
Castagne clearly isn’t the most successful right-backs in Serie A at the moment. But, he is equipped with a certain set of assets that could make him an ideal fit under Mourinho. Indeed, the Belgian is considered to be an excellent athlete. His ability to move up and down the flanks should be useful in Mourinho’s tactical setup that traditionally requires a lot of athleticism and energy. Also, the Atalanta star is an excellent tackler, notably boasting a success rate of 82%.
Castagne’s strengths lie in his ability to provide offensive support to his teammates. But, he is also an excellent passer of the ball with an accuracy rate of 84%. These qualities should make him a useful outlet for Mourinho, especially when it comes to squad rotation.
While Castagne is unlikely to be an upgrade over Aurier, he can surely provide the much-needed depth as well as an additional tactical option for the Spurs manager. And with his contract expiring at the end of next season, the Lilywhites might be able to secure his services for a cut-price, thus making him a wise target for the club.
