According to The Mirror, Tottenham Hotspur are preparing a move for Kim Min-jae. They have stepped up their pursuit of the Beijing Guoan defender in light of Chelsea’s interest in the star. In fact, the Lilywhites are weighing up an offer for the South Korean international this month, with the Chinese outfit ready to cash in on him.
Do Tottenham Need A New Defender?
Tottenham Hotspur have fared considerably in defence following the appointment of Jose Mourinho. However, it results from a collective improvement in the club’s overall pressing and defensive shape rather than inspiring performances from the centre-back.
While Eric Dier does deserve credit for establishing himself as a key member of the side, no one else really has been able to step up. Toby Alderweireld has produced some good performances but has struggled with fitness issues. As for Davinson Sanchez, he has lacked the consistency in his performances while new signing Joe Rodon simply hasn’t been given enough chances.
Other options include Japhet Tanganga, who has been out for most of the campaign due to a long injury layoff. Hence, Spurs need a reliable long-term defensive partner for Dier, especially with Alderweireld nearing the final phase of his career.
Is Kim Min-jae The Ideal Option?
Kim Min-jae may not have the experience of playing in European football like many other Tottenham targets. However, he has built quite a reputation for himself with his performances in the Chinese Super League and indeed, in the South Korean national side.
Nicknamed “The Monster”, Kim has an imposing 1.9m frame that makes him an intimidating figure for the opposing attackers. It also gives him a significant advantage when it comes to physical and aerial duels. In addition, the 24-year-old is known for his no-nonsense defensive philosophy which tunes in well with Mourinho’s tactical setup.
As far as passing is concerned, Kim may not be as effective as someone like Alderweireld when it comes to threading long, diagonal passes out from the back. But, at the age of 24, the Beijing Guoan star has room to improve and potentially become an even more complete centre-back.
Aside from sporting reasons, Spurs should also consider the relationship between Kim and Son Heung-Min as the duo play together for the South Korean national team. It could give the Lilywhites an advantage in the transfer pursuit and help the player settle in quickly in England, thus making him a smart long-term investment for the north London giants.
