According to a recent report by the Daily Star, Tottenham Hotspur will face stiff competition from Arsenal and Manchester City in the race to secure the services of Brazilian defender Dani Alves, who is a free agent during this summer transfer period. In the Transfer Window Podcast (transcripted by the Daily Star) last week, Duncan Castles claimed that Spurs had made contact with the player over a potential move in this off-season.
However, according to renowned beIN Sports journalist Tancredi Palmeri (via the Daily Star), the Gunners have also joined the chase to lure the South American sensation to North London this summer. In a recent tweet, Palmeri said, “Arsenal in contacts with Dani Alves.”
More Competition, More Problems For Tottenham?
This recent development could be a significant blow for Spurs as their London rivals will be able to offer Alves more game time on the pitch. Mauricio Pochettino still has Kieran Trippier in his squad even though the Sun has linked him with a summer exit from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The Argentine manager will also have Serge Aurier available for the new campaign.
Hence, it is highly unlikely that Spurs will be able to land Alves unless they let one of their current right-back options leave before the start of the new season. The Brazilian defensive ace is vastly experienced at the highest level and could be a clever signing for the North London outfit in the short-term.
Alves’ Brilliant Season With Paris-Saint Germain
The 36-year-old is currently experiencing the twilight years of his playing career. Despite losing a yard of pace, Alves did manage to have a fruitful season with Paris Saint-Germain in the previous campaign when he put in a series of productive displays in the Ligue 1.
The ex-Juventus right-back featured in 32 matches for the French champions last season, registering three goals while creating eight assists across all competitions. However, Alves has struggled defensively having made an average of 1.8 tackles, 0.3 interceptions and 0.3 clearances per match in the top tier of French football (stats via whoscored).
What Are The Brazilian’s Strengths And Weaknesses?
Alves has a good football IQ and can still be productive while going forward in the opposition half. He tends to contribute by scoring or creating a few goals as he takes up dangerous positions out on the wide areas. However, the Brazilian talent can be a liability inside his own half as he struggles to keep up with the pace of the opposing wingers and is also synonymous for making rash challenges when facing his own goal.
Is Alves Worth The Fight?
Alves could still have a year or two left in his locker to perform consistently at the top level so Spurs would do well to bring him to North London this summer. Thus, the Brazilian veteran is undoubtedly worth fighting for as he still has something left to contribute before he hangs up his playing boots in the coming years.
