According to Eldesmarque, as cited by Sky Sports, Real Madrid have reignited their interest in Christian Eriksen. It is believed that the European giants are even prepared to offer Luka Modric as part of the deal to sign the Tottenham Hotspur star, whose days in north London could be numbered.
The importance of Eriksen at Spurs
Eriksen is one of the most important players for Tottenham Hotspur along with Harry Kane and Son Heung-Min. Although the Lilywhites have Dele Alli as a partnering playmaker, its the versatility and adaptability of the Dane that makes him one of the best playmakers in world football.
Indeed, Eriksen plays a key role in Mauricio Pochettino’s system. Despite being a number ten, the Argentine is free to utilise him as a wide playmaker or even as a central midfielder, thus offering him additional tactical versatility.
Furthermore, Eriksen can provide the creative essence far better than anyone else in the current crop of the Tottenham playmakers. His set-piece prowess, in particular, is one of the main sources of Spurs’ creativity going forward. Not to mention, he has an almost telepathic understanding with Son and Kane – making them one of the most dangerous attacking units in Europe.
Alli’s disappointing form has already raised questions as to whether or not the Lilywhites will be able to replace Eriksen. And the departure of the ex-Ajax star could further derail the club’s development.
Will the return of Modric benefit Tottenham?
Modric was simply a star in the Premier League when he left Tottenham many years ago. He has improved a lot since then and has recently won the Ballon D’Or last year.
That being said, Modric has struggled at Real Madrid, of late. And with Los Blancos ready to usher in a new era under Zinedine Zidane’s second spell at the club, the Croatian international’s services will not be needed in the future.
Tottenham Hotspur, in that regard, might not be a bad destination from the player’s perspective. However, he may not be useful for Pochettino, whose tactical setup requires a lot of athleticism and tenacity.
Modric, to that end, may not be the ideal player. The Croatian is an excellent ball carrier in half-spaces. But at the age of 34, he is already in the final phase of his career and will not benefit the Lilywhites for the long-term. Hence, the Premier League side should reject Real Madrid’s proposal of signing Modric as part of the deal to sell Eriksen next summer.
