The hunt for quality additions seems to continue, as Tottenham have been linked with a move for Ajax sensation Joel Veltman. As every day passes by, Spurs continue to be linked with right-backs from all over the world, as there is no concrete news on Kyle Walker’s future at Tottenham.
There has been a lot of speculation regarding the Englishman’s future at Tottenham, as he was dropped from the side in the final few weeks of the campaign in favour of Kieran Trippier. Walker’s contract runs until 2021 and the possible reasons for his departure can either be a fall out with Mauricio Pochettino, or it could be because he wants to move up north.
Amidst all this, The Evening Standard have released a report claiming Tottenham are after Ajax defender Joel Veltman. The report says that Veltman is a transfer target for Mauricio Pochettino and that he has been on Spurs’ radar for at least 12 months. His contract expires at the end of next season and hence the transfer fee could come down to around £8million.
Joel Veltman is a quality defender and at 25, he looks like an ideal signing for us. Pochettino firmly believes in signing young players and Veltman would thoroughly fit the bill. Veltman is a versatile defender but primarily played as a right-back for Ajax. He is also capable of playing as a centre-half if the situation demands.
Our Verdict
He made a total of 44 appearances in all competitions and he featured in 40 of those games as a right-back and 4 of them as a centre-half. Veltman is known for his completeness. He is a good passer, he likes to dribble as he is good at it, and is strong in the air as well. His ball retention is something that is worth noting.
He loves to go into tackles, and it is evident from the fact that he received 12 yellow cards. He was also sent off twice last season for double booking, although he never received a straight red. He is a complete defender and is good at both ends of the field.
I have a feeling that he would be an excellent addition to our ranks and we’ll have to wait to see how this develops further.