Transfer News: Tottenham have five-man shortlist to bolster centre-back department

According to transfer news from The Athletic (h/t Express), Tottenham Hotspur have identified five different options to bolster their defensive department in the summer.

The ongoing transfer market is an absolutely pivotal one for Tottenham after the failings of the last season. Not getting the right players in to support new manager Nuno Espirito Santo could spell trouble for the Lilywhites. So, it will be up to the Portuguese tactician and new sporting director Fabio Paratici to get things spot on this summer.

Central defence has seemingly been identified as a key position that needs to be strengthened this summer as per the report. The move makes sense as well, considering how the likes of Eric Dier and Davinson Sanchez underperformed last term while Japhet Tanganga has struggled with injuries.

Nuno Espirito Santo is the new Tottenham manager

In addition to that, Toby Alderweireld is staring at an uncertain future as well, thus warranting the addition of a new defender. And, as per the report, Tottenham have a five-man shortlist to bolster their backline this summer.

Takehiro Tomiyasu of Bologna is seen as the cost-effective option, while his ability to play at centre-back and right-back makes him an appealing target. To that end, a bid of £12m has already been launched.

Milan Skriniar, who has been on the club’s radar since last summer, is another option that is being considered. Steve Hitchen had travelled down to Italy last year to work out a deal with Inter Milan but a deal had not materialised. But the Slovakian remains a target. (h/t Express)

Jules Kounde of Sevilla is seen as a dream target while the Danish duo of Jannik Vestergaard and Joachim Andersen are the other two options, who have Premier League experience.

Kounde would be a brilliant signing for Tottenham (imago Images)

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All five players have their own advantages and will make the defence better in their own way. Kounde seems like the most appealing option given his age and potential but is likely to command a hefty fee. It remains to be seen who the club ends up signing this summer.