Tottenham in the transfer race to sign highly-rated Benfica midfielder Orkun Kokcu
In the summer transfer window gone by, Tottenham Hotspur invested well to reshape their squad that had finished fifth in the Premier League last term. They scouted promising young talents and managed to persuade them to make the move to the Hotspur Way.
However, the Lilywhites’ squad still has a few gaping holes and requires fleshing out. Indeed, Ange Postecoglou’s side sit 10th in the Premier League table, and improvements are certainly needed if they are to bring Champions League nights back to White Hart Lane next year.
Football London correspondent Alasdair Gold has revealed that Ange Postecoglou would love to sign a creative midfielder during the January transfer window if the opportunity arises. That said, Tottenham can fulfil their gaffer’s requirement by signing a player from Benfica.
According to an exclusive report from CaughtOffside, Tottenham Hotspur have joined Liverpool and Manchester United in the race to sign Benfica star Orkun Kokcu.
Having previously worked with Arne Slot at Eredivisie club Feyenoord, Liverpool appear to be in a strong position when it comes to signing the Turkiye international. Ruben Amorim—the new Manchester United head coach—will know the 23-year-old well from his time managing in Portugal with Benfica’s rivals Sporting CP.
Kokcu has been enjoying a strong second season with Benfica. The Turk, known for his attacking contributions from a central role, has posted four goals and three assists in 15 games across all competitions. His profile of an all-action central midfielder who can not only contribute in the final third but also break up play when required suits what Ange Postecoglou wants to bring in at Spurs.
The aforementioned report adds that Kokcu has a release clause of €150 million in his Benfica contract that runs until 2028 (Transfermarkt), although Benfica will be open to selling him for €60-70 million in the next window.
Postecoglou will want to build his midfield and bring in players that complement the current setup. At this moment, James Maddison isn’t providing the right balance to the team due to his lack of work ethic and defensive qualities. Kokcu, in terms of energy, work ethic and ball-winning ability, would be an upgrade on Maddison whilst providing creativity and goals at the other end of the pitch.
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Given Liverpool and Man United are in the race for his signature, Tottenham have to pull a rabbit out of the hat to convince the Benfica midfielder to join Big Ange’s forces in 2025.
