Spurs are a side that haven’t really lived up to their pre-season hype and going into the Christmas period, they’re some way off Chelsea – who sit at the top of the Premier League table.
Their fans here in the Tavern are a little concerned about the gap between them and the Blues but we’ve seen bigger tallies broken in the past and if Pochettino can get his side winning, Spurs might still have a shot at the title.
But picking up on some of the gossip at the pub, it’s clear there are certain changes small pockets of Spurs fans want – most notably in defence.
They’ve got a strong back-line, but we’ve seen injuries somewhat limit their progress at times this season and if they want to really keep chase with the frontrunners in the division, they need a little more depth.
So with that in mind, here’s four defenders Pochettino should look to sign for Spurs this January…
Jose Gayaj
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDx2ddumCTs
Despite Valencia’s continued tumble down the La Liga table, 21-year-old full-back Jose Gaya continues to be the club’s shining light in what has been a difficult couple of years at the Mestalla.
He’s been ever-present in the side that has been managed by a handful of coaches over the past few seasons and many are tipping him for a move to the Premier League in the very near future.
He’d have some battle with Danny Rose for a starting berth though, but it’s a face-off that would only make both players better going forward.
Wendell
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fjKSLNGv4Kw
Another left-sided full-back, Wendell is a young Brazilian making waves in the Bundesliga for Bayer Leverkusen.
He continues to shine in a Bayer team that is underperforming down in 9th place and when you continue to play well with others letting you down, it’s normally only a matter of time before you seek a move away.
He’s quick, reads the game well and has plenty of time to develop. He’d be a fantastic option for Spurs.
Joao Cancelo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Gi6qpAriFM
The second Valencia man on our list, Joao Cancelo is a right-sided defender who is amongst the most versatile in Spain.
He predominantly plays as a defender but we’ve seen him play as a holding midfielder and an offensive right-winger, where he’s utilised his lightning pace and ability to get forward.
Spurs seem to love a pacy full-back and in that respect, Joao Cancelo really fits the bill. He’d be worth a punt for sure.
Mauricio Lemos
Perhaps not the best-known name on this list, but there is little doubting the hype that is currently surrounding Las Palmas youngster Mauricio Lemos.
The Uruguayan U23 star has been tipped for extremely bright things indeed and the pocket of Spanish fans here in the Tavern have been speaking wonders about his development all season.
He’s got a long way to go but as development comes, there would be no better place to learn than at Spurs, under a manager who is keen on giving young players a chance to shine.
