According to Charlie Eccleshare of The Athletic, talks between Tottenham and Milan are ‘expected to continue’ over the possible loan move of defender Japhet Tanganga.
The Lowdown: Increased playing time but more criticism
The 22-year-old centre-back has seen increased game-time this season, having made 11 Premier League appearances, 10 of which came in the starting XI. Tanganga’s ability to play in a number of positions across the back line has proven to be an invaluable asset for Spurs - he has been employed as a centre-back, right-back, left-back and even as a right midfielder during the current campaign.
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However, the defender has been on the receiving end of some criticism this year following a string of poor performances. Having averaged a tame 6.65 SofaScore rating, Tanganga has often been blamed for being the reason as to why Spurs have been shipping goals regularly; Premier League legend Rio Ferdinand described his performance in the 3-0 thrashing by Crystal Palace as being costly for Spurs, on a day that he demonstrated 'a lack of experience' throughout.
The Latest: Spurs and Milan in talks over Tanganga
As per Eccleshare on Twitter on Monday morning, talks between Tottenham and Milan are ‘expected to continue today’ over the possibility of a loan move for Japhet Tanganga.
Despite the aforementioned criticism, Spurs are wary of letting the defender go, as he has started the club’s last five games. However, if they do end up sanctioning the transfer, they would only permit a loan with an obligation to buy, whereas Milan want a straight loan deal.
The Verdict: A loan move could be the right decision
Tanganga reportedly 'wants to stay' at the north London club, but he is aware that the returns of central defenders Eric Dier and Cristian Romero could reduce his game-time over the remainder of the season.
However, joining the Serie A club could prove to be the right decision for Tanganga, who last August was hailed as a ‘really special’ player by Gary Neville.
If he ends up being shunted out of Antonio Conte's starting XI, he may need to go somewhere he would enjoy regular top-flight football. Up to now, the 22-year-old has been thrown in and out of the starting XI by various Spurs managers, only utilised when he's needed to fill in at the back due his ability to play anywhere across the defence.
Therefore, this prospective loan move could prove to be a blessing for Tanganga - that's if the two clubs can come to an agreement over the arrangement of the deal.
In other news - "Still in talks": Fabrizio Romano provides the latest on another player linked with a possible exit from Tottenham