It has been a few days since Tottenham Hotspur have announced the arrival of Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg. The Danish midfielder joins from Southampton in a deal worth around €16 million. He was one of Jose Mourinho’s prime targets in this summer transfer window, and in this article, we will discuss how the arrival of Hojbjerg could affect Tottenham next season.
What’s Next For Harry Winks?
Hojberg’s addition to the side will, no doubt, affect Harry Winks’ game-time at Tottenham. The Englishman became an ever-present figure in the Spurs midfield under Mourinho during the second half of the 2019/20 campaign. However, his pass-oriented gameplay isn’t exactly suited to the high pressing, counter-attacking football professed by the Portuguese mastermind.
Hojbjerg, in that regard, is a much better fit. That is perhaps why Manchester City are now considering making a move for Winks this summer. The Premier League giants are even willing to splash £40 million, which could actually turn out to be a smart piece of business for Tottenham.
Even if Winks does, however, end up staying in north London, he will have to compete hard for a place in the starting lineup. It could ultimately hinder his progress and hopes of getting into the English national team for the European Championship next summer.
Radical Changes In Midfield Setup
What makes Hojbjerg such a smart signing for Tottenham is his all-round qualities in midfield. Although he is primarily known for his tenacity and leadership, the Dane is also good when it comes to rotating possession. It could nullify the need for having to deploy two separate midfielders in Winks and Moussa Sissoko, ultimately opening up a host of tactical possibilities for Mourinho.
In fact, it won’t be surprising to see the ex-Chelsea manager using that opportunity to deploy Giovani Lo Celso in a more withdrawn role, with Dele Alli operating as a number ten. He could also opt for a 4-1-4-1 with Hojbjerg featuring as the lone holding midfielder.
Oliver Skipp To Be Loaned Out?
While Winks’ future at Tottenham remains uncertain, another promising young midfielder, Oliver Skipp, is more than likely to move away from north London. The 19-year-old has already had difficulties finding regular game-time under Mourinho this past season, having featured in just 71 minutes of league football.
Skipp, therefore, might leave the club on loan in search of regular game-time, which could aid not only the player but also the club as they look to find the right balance following the arrival of Hojbjerg.
