According to AS, Tottenham Hotspur could rival West Ham in pursuit of Guillermo Maripan this summer. The AS Monaco defender has emerged as a target for both the Premier League clubs following his success in Ligue 1. Spurs manager Jose Mourinho, in particular, is keen on securing the services of Maripan as he looks to bolster his defensive options in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Guillermo Maripan’s stellar success at AS Monaco
Maripan joined AS Monaco for a fee of €18 million last summer. Since then, he has become one of the best performing defenders in Ligue 1 this campaign, having become a key component in Robert Moreno’s defensive system.
Indeed, Maripan has made 20 league appearances this season, creating a formidable partnership with Benoit Badiashile and Kamil Glik. His defensive contributions have played a critical role behind Monaco’s steadily improving form under Moreno.
The Chilean’s performances are also backed by statistics, with the defender notably attempting almost three tackles per game with a success rate of 72%. He has also averaged 3.3 clearances while winning two aerial duels per game. His pass completion rate of 88% is pretty impressive as well.
What can he offer to the table?
Maripan is primarily known for his 1.93 metre frame. His towering presence at the back helps him assert his dominance, both physically and aerially. Moreover, the 26-year-old is a good reader of the ball, notably averaging 1.3 interceptions per game this season.
However, what makes him such a sought-after defender in France is his ability to distribute the ball. His technical prowess has already been implemented well by Moreno. Moreover, it is combined with his physical dominance and intelligent decision making, meaning Maripan is indeed a well-rounded defender.
Tottenham could rival West Ham in pursuit of Guillermo Maripan: A wise option for Mourinho?
Maripan is an excellent option for a Tottenham side that are destined to lose Jan Vertonghen. The Belgian’s contract expires in the summer while the likes of Juan Foyth and Davinson Sanchez have also had a difficult time this season. The Monaco star, therefore, could add some much-needed solidity in the defensive unit.
In fact, Maripan’s technical and physical prowess could combine well with an experienced defensive figurehead like Toby Alderweireld. Their partnership could not only improve Spurs’ backline but also ease the club’s build-up from the back.
From a financial perspective, however, it is still unclear as to how much exactly Maripan is going to cost. He has had a tremendous season and still has a contract with Monaco until 2024, which could be problematic for Spurs. So it will be interesting to see how this transfer saga takes shape within the coming months.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
