According to Todofichajes, Tottenham are in talks with Atletico Madrid for Stefan Stavic. The centre-back has emerged as a top target for Jose Mourinho’s side as they look to bolster their defensive options in the summer. Savic is believed to be available in the market, although Tottenham Hotspur could face stiff competition from Ligue 1 side AS Monaco.
Stefan Savic: A bright career ended by injuries
Savic has been a part of the Atletico side since 2015 when he joined from Serie A club Fiorentina. Since then, he has featured in 151 competitive matches for La Liga giants, helping them grow under the leadership of Diego Simeone. At the same time, however, the Montenegro international is also among the most unfortunate defenders in European football right now.
Indeed, a majority of Savic’s career at Atletico Madrid has been marred by injuries. Since arriving in Spain back in 2015, the defender has suffered from a whopping 13 different spells on the sidelines. These constant fitness problems have not only minimised his overall game-time but have also allowed other defenders to establish themselves as first-team members of the senior side.
When Savic has been able to remain fit, his performances have been more than decent. His defensive commitment and aggression are ideally suited to Simeone’s rigid tactical style at Atletico. However, as the club prepares for a potential overhaul, the 29-year-old could now be forced to take the next step in his career.
Is Savic a viable target for Tottenham?
From a tactical perspective, Savic is an ideal fit for Tottenham Hotspur. The ex-Fiorentina star, who is likely to be considered as a replacement for Jan Vertonghen, has a lot of experience at the highest level of football. But more importantly, his discipline and commitment tune in well with Jose Mourinho’s defence-oriented tactics.
Savic’s robust style of play should indeed combine well with the much more technical nature of Toby Alderweireld, thus adding a new dimension to the club’s backline. On the flip side, however, Spurs simply cannot overlook the defender’s woeful injury record.
At the same moment, Mourinho needs someone who can reliably and consistently make himself an ever-present figure in the backline alongside the likes of Alderweireld and Davinson Sanchez. Savic clearly doesn’t fit the bill, with all his recurring muscle injuries. Hence, it would perhaps be wiser for the Lilywhites to shift their attention to other alternatives in the market this summer.
