Tottenham’s new manager might team his star center back with a new defensive pillar.
Tottenham Hotspur are looking to strengthen their defense as their first priority in the newly opened summer transfer window…
What’s the latest on Roger Ibanez’s potential move to Tottenham Hotspur?
According to Sportitalia, Ange Postecoglou has shown a particular interest in AS Roma center-back Roger Ibanez.
While it is stated that they are not the only team involved, they are the only ones specifically listed in the study.
A sum of roughly €40 million (£34 million) is still being discussed, since the Brazilian defender has only two years left on his £32k-per-week contract.
Tottenham close to sign €40m best Seria A defender as perfect pair to Romero
Only five clubs conceded more goals than Spurs last season, three of which were relegated.
With all of the defensive security Antonio Conte’s arrival promised, they may be weaker than ever at the back. They just could not absorb pressure like his previous teams, leaving a threadbare backline susceptible to wave after wave of assault. They had to give up a few concessions sooner or later.
Cristian Romero has been one of the few bright spots since his arrival in north London in 2021, but even he unable to compensate for the team’s penchant for easy goals last season. Despite this, he had an admirable personal year in the league, with a 6.97 average rating.
However, his peak from the previous season is a more accurate assessment of his abilities and the assets that may complement Ibanez so well if Postecoglou makes him his first signing this summer.
According to Sofascore, the Argentina international had a 7.15 average rating in the league that season, thanks to an 87% pass accuracy, 64% dribbling success rate, and 2.4 tackles and 3.3 clearances per game. He was unstoppable defensively and provided plenty with his build-up.
Fortunately for the 25-year-old, who has been hailed and chastised for his abrasive and reckless demeanor, the presence of a steady and soothing influence like Ibanez could provide the balance required to stabilize their otherwise weak back-line.
Last season, under Jose Mourinho’s supervision, the 24-year-old averaged a 7.00 rating in Serie A, with an 88% pass accuracy and two interceptions, two tackles, and 2.8 clearances per game, according to Sofascore.
His famed Portuguese manager referred to him as “untouchable” because of his dictatorial demeanor.
With two South American goalkeepers determined to keep the ball out of their net, the tandem might unite to strengthen up Spurs’ defense under Postecoglou with passion, solidity, and a touch of quality packaged into one superb pairing.
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