According to ESPN’s Jorge Nicola, as cited by Metro, Tottenham Hotspur are monitoring Flamengo star Gerson. The young central midfielder has raised a lot of eyebrows this summer, with Arsenal, in particular, keen on securing his services. Although Spurs are yet to make a move for Gerson, Nicola has confirmed that they have probed for the Brazilian.
Gerson’s success at Flamengo
Gerson initially joined Flamengo last summer, in an €11 million move from AS Roma. He had a miserable time at the Italian capital, amassing only 42 first-team appearances in three years with the Giallorossi. As a result, he was shipped out back to his native Brazil as part of the club’s overhaul in the midfield department.
A move to Flamengo has worked wonders for Gerson, it seems. He was one of the ever-present figures in the Flamengo side that won the Brazilian Serie A last year. Indeed, the 22-year-old built a formidable midfield partnership alongside Willian Arao, helping his team win not only the league title but also the Copa Libertadores.
What can he bring to the table?
Gerson is a traditional number eight. He is blessed with an immense technical prowess that allows him to anchor the midfield. His crisp passing, combined with an excellent vision makes the Brazilian one of the most in-demand midfielders in South America at the moment.
Another key asset in Gerson’s game is his physical attributes. Although he doesn’t have the most imposing figure, the Flamengo star is more than capable of holding his own in a one-on-one duel. It enables him to keep hold of the ball in tight areas of the pitch. Also, the 22-year-old has quick feet and isn’t afraid to take on defenders, thus making him a remarkable ball-carrier.
Tottenham Hotspur are monitoring Flamengo star Gerson: A viable option for Mourinho?
Gerson appears like an excellent cost-effective option in Jose Mourinho’s bid to reinforce the midfield department. The Brazilian star should add a new dimension to the club’s build-up play with his passing and dribbling. In fact, he can be an ideal alternative for the underperforming Tanguy Ndombele.
That being said, the ex-AS Roma star is also a risky option. He is yet to impress in Europe, which means transitioning to the fast-paced nature of Premier League will be difficult. Furthermore, Gerson does not have a lot of experience at the highest level of football.
The Brazilian is a much less expensive option when compared to other midfielders. But, his lack of experience and credibility could create problems in his bid to thrive in the Premier League. Hence, it would perhaps be wiser for Spurs to shift their attention to other, more proven alternatives.
