Mauricio Pochettino is yet to add a fresh face to his squad this summer but Tottenham Hotspur need some upgrades in quality at a few key areas in the squad, if they are to compete with the best next season. This has seen them scout for a number of exciting names but one player they are linked with is Joao Mario.
The Portuguese international, who started every game for his country in the World Cup recently, started his senior career with Sporting CP and spent four seasons with the senior side, before being sold to Inter Milan in 2016. He scored just two league goals in 30 Serie A appearances in his debut season at the club and slowly lost his place in the side last season, moving to West Ham United on loan in January.
The midfielder started 12 Premier League games and was crucial in West Ham’s quest to avoid a late relegation battle. He registered a goal and two assists but the arrival of Pellegrini has seen the Hammers drop interest in a permanent deal for Mario.
He has not done enough for the Italian giants to give him another chance, putting him up for sale this summer. Reports suggest that Nuno Espirito Santo’s Wolves are currently favourites to land the versatile midfielder. However, Tottenham Hotspur are listed at 5/1 as the second most likely destination for the 25-year old, before the start of the next season. So is he a player Pochettino will sign?
At 25, Mario has the potential to turn into a real match winner for Spurs but it is hard to see him as an upgrade on any of the options Pochettino currently has at White Hart Lane. The Inter Milan midfielder can play on either wing in an advanced winger’s role but is also adept at playing as a part of the midfield, adding creativity to the side in the middle of the park.
He is technically gifted and has a keen eye for a defence-splitting pass and his busy approach to the game makes him a decent fit to Pochettino’s system. He is smart with his positioning, is ready to do the dirty work and adds balance to his side and is not a bad asset to have on the bench.
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However, there is no first team spot for Mario at the Lane. Pochettino will definitely look to add depth to his side this summer and Mario’s previous experience in London will help him settle in at the club quickly. He can come off the bench and can make an impact but if Spurs are pulled into a bidding war, the Portuguese star is not a player they can walk away from. Do you think Spurs should look to sign Joao Mario this summer?
