According to Mundo Deportivo, as cited by Express, Tottenham Hotspur are now serious about the transfer of Diego Godin. The Inter Milan defender has been eyed as a top target by Jose Mourinho as he looks to bolster his defensive options. The Spurs boss is also preparing for life without Jan Vertonghen, whose contract expires at the end of the season.
In this article, we will draw a comparison between Godin and Vertonghen and discuss whether or not the Uruguayan can really replace the Tottenham veteran.
Style of play
Both these defenders are primarily known for their maturity and composure in the backline. They can offer a lot of solidity and balance to the side, which is essential for any top club.
Godin, however, is more defence-minded centre-back when compared to Vertonghen, who is exclusively a ball-playing defender. That means the Uruguayan is a better option when it comes to defending deep and it comes as no surprise either, given his experience with Diego Simeone at Atletico Madrid.
That being said, the Inter Milan star doesn’t have the passing range of Vertonghen. The Belgian is an excellent distributor of possession while he can also thread long diagonals from the back. Also, he is much more versatile, with Mourinho notably utilising him as a left-back this season.
Statistical comparison
Godin has attempted 2.2 tackles per game this season with an accuracy rate of 68%. He is also an excellent reader of the game, having averaged 1.8 interceptions per game. Vertonghen, in that regard, falls a bit short, with 1.6. However, the Spurs veteran has attempted more tackles (2.6) with better accuracy (80%).
Godin has also failed to outperform Vertonghen in terms of aerial duels and clearances statistically, but the values are almost the same. The Uruguayan has won 2.3 headed duels per game compared to Vertonghen’s 2.6. His tally of 2.6 clearances per game is also lower than the 2.9 of his Belgian counterpart.
Verdict
Despite the statistics heavily favouring Vertonghen, it is fair to point out that the Belgian has featured in a wide defensive role for a majority of the campaign. As a result, he has remained much busier, especially in the fast-paced nature of the Premier League.
From a sporting perspective, Godin will be an excellent replacement option for the ex-Ajax star. He has the experience of playing at the highest level of football and knows how to lead a team. And unlike Vertonghen, the Inter Milan star is much more suited to Mourinho’s defence-oriented tactics – making him a viable target for the Lilywhites.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
