Tottenham Hotspur stalwart Moussa Sissoko completed his move to newly promoted divisional rivals Watford on Friday evening [Sky Sports].
The Lowdown: Nuno means business
With the new era at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium well underway, Lilywhites boss Nuno Espirito Santo has wasted no time in re-shaping his roster as he bids to restore his sides’ place amongst the elite in English football this campaign.
Holding no place for sentimentality, the ex-Porto coach has cut loose experienced figures at the club this summer such as Toby Alderweireld, Joe Hart and Danny Rose [Transfermarkt].
Now, another casualty has been added to his list after news of Sissoko's next move was confirmed ahead of the weekend's top flight fixtures.
The Latest: Sissoko completes move to Watford
Sissoko has swapped North London for Hertfordshire to join Watford on a deal worth just £2.5 million [Sky Sports].
Despite having two years left to run on his contract at Spurs, he was not deemed to be part of the management team’s plans this season, prompting them to cash in on the France international.
The former Newcastle United anchor man brings the curtain down on five years at Tottenham, following a £30 million move from the North-East in 2016 [BBC].
The Verdict: Best scenario for player and club
Unlikely to be a regular fixture in Nuno’s line-up in 2021/22, recuperating some form of income for 6 foot 2 Sissoko may prove to be a wise move by Spurs chiefs as they seek to blood a younger squad - all of their outfield arrivals this summer are 23 or younger.
Over the course of his time at the club, the 32-year-old was a reliable figure despite his lack of end product - he managed to add 21 goal contributions in 202 games for the club; five goals and 16 assists [Transfermarkt].
Last term Sissoko was particularly efficient from a defensive standpoint, managing to obtain a tackle success rate of 73%, something Tottenham will miss in the forthcoming months [Premier League].
Once labelled as 'fantastic' by Mauricio Pochettino, his impact during his five years will be appreciated by supporters after plenty of ups and downs [SB Nation].
Having seemingly already replaced his energy and endeavour by signing FC Metz midfielder Pape Matar Sarr, Spurs look to be adopting a long-term vision of success.
Sarr will remain on loan with Ligue 1 outfit FC Metz in 2021/22 however, signifying that Tottenham may need to add another midfielder to their ranks before Tuesday's deadline.
In other news, Tottenham Hotspur have received a huge boost in a transfer chase. Find out more here.