Tottenham accept defeat in pursuit of City-bound 20yo defender

Tottenham Hotspur have been struggling deeply in the defensive side of things with injuries plaguing the starting centre-back duo Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven on a consistent basis, and the Lilywhites explored possibilities to sign 20-year-old Abdukodir Khusanov from RC Lens as a potential solution to these backline woes.

However, reports have now emerged suggesting that Premier League rivals Manchester City are set to secure the highly rated Uzbek defender, which will come as a big blow for the North Londoners who concede defeat in their pursuit of the CB, per L’Equipe.

City pip Tottenham to Khusanov

Khusanov has quickly risen through the ranks as one of its brightest young defensive talents in the European top five leagues, with his composure, tactical awareness, and ability to play out from the back making him an ideal player for the modern tactics, especially for a side like Tottenham that desperately needs new facts that can make an impact straight away.

Missing out on Khusanov feels like a significant blow for the North Londoners, but this also sows the great financial gap between Tottenham and Man City. But for Khusanov, to join one of the biggest clubs in the world and compete for major trophies under Pep Guardiola would likely have proved irresistible even if Tottenham were pushing for his signature. 

What now?

For the North Londoners, now it is important to act swiftly and identify alternative targets; be it a young prospect or an experienced campaigner, strengthening the roster at the back is essential in the ongoing window.

More Tottenham Hotspur News:

• “It is time to go…” – Ex-scout thinks Tottenham player whose contract ends in the summer can leave in the January window
• “It’s a possibility…” – Fabrizio Romano gives latest on Tottenham pursuit of £55m forward
• “That is an option for Tottenham…” – Journalist backs Levy to move for defender that was once wanted by Conte at N17

And while missing out on Khusanov is a setback, this also serves as a reminder to be more decisive in today’s transfer market.