An “excellent” midfielder is now increasingly likely to join Tottenham Hotspur this summer, having put in some impressive performances in recent weeks, according to a report.
Bissouma set to be replaced as Spurs plan for the long-term
Yves Bissouma has received regular game time ever since arriving from Brighton & Hove Albion ahead of the 2022-23 campaign, but the midfielder has started to play a less crucial role this season, often being utilised as a substitute or left on the bench.
As such, there have been reports suggesting Ange Postecoglou is ready to cash-in on the former Brighton man this summer, which means the manager will need to bring in a replacement, and a number of targets have been identified.
Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, who is valued at around £66m, is one of the names on the list, alongside Real Betis’ Johnny Cardoso, with reports from February revealing Spurs are leading the race for the American’s signature due to a clause that allows them first option on the midfielder.
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GiveMeSport have now dropped a new update on Tottenham’s pursuit of Cardoso, reporting the Lilywhites are now increasingly likely to trigger the midfielder’s £21m clause to bring him to north London this summer.
Positive talks were held with Betis back in August, and the 23-year-old has continued to impress since then, most recently catching the eye with a solid performance against Real Madrid in La Liga last weekend.
In light of the central midfielder’s impressive display, Spurs are now confident forking out £21m would be a savvy investment, but they are continuing to analyse whether he would be a good fit.
The defensive midfielder could be brought in as a direct replacement for Bissouma, with Postecoglou deciding this summer could be the right time to cash-in on the Mali international.
"Excellent" Cardoso impressing in La Liga
The Betis star put in a solid performance against Real Madrid last time out, scoring the opening goal in his side’s 2-1 triumph, but as pointed out by freelance scout Ben Mattinson, he tends to sit in deeper areas and flourishes defensively.
This assessment is corroborated by the fact the USA international has performed extremely well on several key defensive metrics over the past year, which suggests he could be a real upgrade on Bissouma.
Statistic per 90
Johnny Cardoso
Yves Bissouma
Interceptions
2.03 (99th percentile)
1.32 (76th percentile)
Blocks
1.37 (69th percentile)
0.64 (5th percentile)
Clearances
2.49 (94th percentile)
2.31 (88th percentile)
Aerials won
1.57 (84th percentile)
0.60 (32nd percentile)
Tackles
2.53 (76th percentile)
3.16 (91st percentile)
It was a savvy move for Tottenham to negotiate a £21m release clause for Cardoso, which seems to be way below his value, judging by how he’s performed in La Liga, and if he continues to impress they should undoubtedly stump up the £21m this summer.