According to Daily Star, Arsenal are mulling over a shock move for Tottenham Hotspur defender Toby Alderweireld. The Belgian international reportedly has a release clause of £25 million that can be activated this summer and it seems like the Gunners have identified him as the perfect candidate to bolster their defensive department.
However, it is believed the North London giants are having a problem meeting his £25 million release clause upfront. Instead, they want to pay that amount throughout the coming year, and this could be a problem if they are to secure his services this summer. So, should Unai Emery really urge the Arsenal hierarchy to step up their efforts of signing Alderweireld?
Alderweireld is one of the best defenders in the Premier League
Alderweireld initially joined Tottenham Hotspur back in 2015, in a €16 million move from Atletico Madrid. And since then, he has become a vital part of the Spurs backline, having made 159 appearances for the Lilywhites across all competitions.
The Belgian has built a solid defensive partnership with his compatriot Jan Vertonghen that has played a significant role behind Tottenham’s success under Mauricio Pochettino. As a result, he is regarded as one of the best defenders in the Premier League at the moment.
That being said, Alderweireld has struggled with injuries in recent years, notably making just 14 league appearances during the 2017/18 campaign. He did, however, become an ever-present figure in defence last season, featuring in 34 matches and helping the club secure Champions League qualification for the upcoming campaign.
What can the Belgian bring to the table?
Alderweireld is predominantly a ball playing centre-back, whose composure on the ball coupled with his excellent passing range allows him to enhance his side’s build-up from the back. He can also read the game very well and is capable of making crucial tackles. Hence, he can be compared to Bayern Munich sensation Jerome Boateng, in a way.
The Belgian does appear lacklustre in terms of his positioning and marking, at times but those lapses of concentration are prevalent in any defender nowadays.
Should Arsenal make a move for Alderweireld?
Arsenal would be in dire need of defensive reinforcements this summer if the performances of Shkodran Mustafi were anything to go by last season. Also, veteran skipper Laurent Koscielny is keen to leave while the likes of Rob Holding and Konstantinos Mavrapanos have struggled with injuries.
Alderweireld, in that regard, might be able to solve the Gunners’ defensive problems and his leadership qualities at the back will offer more solidity as they look to kickstart a new era under Emery next season. However, it remains to be seen whether or not the Belgian will be keen to move to Emirates as it could jeopardise his relationship with Tottenham fans.
