According to Fanatik, Galatasaray are eyeing a swoop for Japhet Tanganga. The Tottenham defender has emerged as an eleventh-hour option for the Turkish giants as they look to reclaim their dominance in the Super Lig. Galatasaray have already agreed personal terms with Tanganga and are hoping to sign him on a season-long loan deal with a purchase option valid next summer.
Japhet Tanganga’s Story So Far At Tottenham
A product of the Tottenham academy, Japhet Tanganga rose to prominence during the backend of the 2019/20 campaign. He was given a direct promotion to the senior side by Jose Mourinho as he ended the season with six appearances in the Premier League while also making his Champions League and FA Cup debut.
Tanganga was expected to enjoy a breakthrough campaign last season. But unfortunately, a nasty thigh injury kept him out on the sidelines, halting his progress. He ended up making only six league appearances last season, largely serving as a bit-part player even after returning to full fitness.
However, despite his fitness problems, the Englishman has turned a lot of heads with his defensive prowess. He is a dogged centre-back who is particularly good when it comes to keeping up with his marker. His imposing figure also gives him the physical stature required to thrive in the Premier League.
What truly makes Tanganga such a valued youngster, though, is his versatility. A centre-back by trade, the 22-year-old can operate in a three-man backline and even as a right-back if required. It is partly what helped him get a call-up to the senior side, with Jose Mourinho using him as an alternative for Serge Aurier for a brief period.
Should Tottenham Sanction His Sale?
Tottenham Hotspur defence is certainly going through a summer of change. Toby Alderweireld has left the club in favour of a move to Al-Duhail and there are lingering doubts over the future of Eric Dier.
The club are set to announce the arrival of Cristian Romero. But they do require the presence of existing youngsters like Joe Rodon and Japhet Tanganga, both of who have an excellent opportunity to make their breakthroughs under new manager Nuno Espirito Santo.
Tanganga could be particularly useful with his versatility and dogged defensive nature. It serves well for Nuno, who is known for his defence-oriented tactical philosophy. As such, the 21-year-old may find himself in a more favourable situation next season.
His robust nature of play should also complement the technical prowess of Romero, thus adding another dimension to Tottenham’s backline. Hence, it would perhaps be wiser for Spurs to keep hold of Tanganga this summer.
