According to a recent report by Bild (translated by Sport Witness), Tottenham Hotspur are keeping a keen eye on SC Freiburg centre-back Robin Koch whose current contract is set to expire at the end of next season. The same source has also claimed that Spurs are preparing for the departures of Jan Vertonghen and Juan Foyth this summer, which is why they have identified Koch as a potential defensive option ahead of the summer transfer window.
Koch’s Impressive Form At Freiburg This Season
The German international has enjoyed a brilliant season at the Schwarzwald-Stadion after putting in a series of commanding displays at the heart of Christian Streich’s defence. He has featured in 33 matches for the Bundesliga outfit this term, scoring three goals in the process across all competitions.
More importantly, Koch has established himself as a top defender in the Bundesliga based on his average of 1.1 tackles, 1.5 interceptions, 3.0 clearances and 4.4 long balls in every 90 minutes of league football this season. He has also been tidy with his ball-distribution after completing 83.6% of his attempted passes in the German top-flight so far (stats via whoscored).
The 23-year-old has earned two senior caps for the German national team so far. If Koch can maintain his high standards in the upcoming campaign, then he should have a decent shot of being selected in Joachim Low’s squad for next year’s UEFA European Championship finals.
What Will The German Defender Add To Jose Mourinho’s Team?
Koch is a highly versatile footballer as he primarily operates as a centre-back but can also fill in as a defensive midfielder if required. He has transformed himself into a reliable defensive presence at the centre of the Freiburg backline. Standing at 1.92m, the German can use his strong frame to overpower the opposition in the air while also being good at sensing the danger quickly that allows him to make some vital interceptions and last-gasp clearances for his side. However, there are some concerns over whether Koch will be able to adjust to the high intensity of Premier League football if he decides to join Spurs before the start of the new season.
Recruiting a defender of Koch’s skillset will be a shrewd piece of business by Tottenham as he could resolve some of Jose Mourinho’s defensive concerns at North London. He will not only add more bite and steel to the Tottenham defence but also improve the overall depth of their squad. Plus, the German international will offer more competition for the likes of Davinson Sanchez, Toby Alderweireld and Japhet Tanganga at the English capital next season.
With all things considered, it makes sense for Mourinho to orchestrate a move to bring the Freiburg defender to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in this off-season. At 23, Koch is about to embark upon the prime years of his football career which Spurs could look to benefit from in the coming seasons.
