Tottenham are reportedly mulling over the prospect of signing Tolgay Arslan in the winter transfer window. Interestingly, the Besiktas midfielder was rejected by Sunderland in the summer but the North London club are priming themselves for a January move.
It was reported by the Northern Echo earlier this year that the Turkish Champions were eager to involve Arslan as part of a deal to take Jeremain Lens to the Vodafone Arena.
Had that move happened, Arslan would have been at the bottom of the English Championship now. However, it was the reluctance of Sunderland to do a player-plus-cash offer that resulted in Arslan staying back at Besiktas. Lens was sold for £4.5m while Arslan stayed back in Turkey.
Besiktas should be happy that the move didn’t materialize, purely because the midfielder’s improved form this season has increased his value. The former Germany Under-21 international is now being tracked by Spurs who are planning a bid of £9m for the player, according to reports from Turkish media outlet Fotomac.
Besiktas are however expected to demand over £10.5m for a player who has established himself in the heart of their midfield this season. The 27-year-old is widely regarded as an all-round midfielder, with his ability to be a combative ball winner and an intelligent passer, making him a real asset to the side.
But, where exactly does Arslan fit into Mauricio Pochettino’s plans? The Argentine gaffer is blessed with many options in the middle of the park. Eric Dier who has been a proven performer in central midfield had to drop back to defensive duties while Mousa Dembele is struggling with his injuries quite often.
Having said that, Arslan’s ability to provide quality and depth will be a great addition to Tottenham as Pochettino aims to get his side competing on both domestic and European fronts.
But, one thing is certain. The failed move to Sunderland in the summer worked wonders for both Besiktas and Arslan.
What do you think? Should Poch make a move for Arslan?
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