Is Toby Alderweireld and Spurs the perfect fit? Many Spurs fans would love to see the Belgian at the club, an ideal partner for Jan Vertonghen. Could Alderweireld prove to be the solution to the rickety defence, or will he join the line of many other unsuccessful Spurs signings?
Statistically, Alderweireld proves his worth based on his last season. The major difference between Alderweireld and the current Spurs centre-backs is the lack of defensive errors (zero) compared to at least two defensive errors by each of Spurs’ top four played centrebacks. Also, he only committed 12 fouls compared to Vertonghen’s 2o and Eric Dier’s 21 fouls. Combining these two factors highlights the maturity and composure of the 25-year-old, which Spurs severely lack in defence. In addition, he has won 51.83% of all duels including aerial, ground and take-ons. This is a solid showing in comparison to his potential teammates, although he still pales in comparison to Vertonghen’s 62.02% of duels won. But, bare in mind there is an age gap of three years and once again he looks a perfect fit. Not only is his defending sound, but his use of possession seems to be superior too, as his average pass length is 23.73m. The importance of a ball-playing centre-back is paramount to success. To be able to win the ball and simultaneously recycle the ball to counter-attack can turn many matches on their head. Vertonghen can be considered a ball playing centre-back too, which would allow Spurs to play from the back with ease and style. No more of those terrifying Fazio moments.
Most importantly, Alderweireld has proven himself as a capable centre-back in the Premier League. But, prior to joining Southampton, he played for AFC Ajax with familiar faces Jan Vertonghen and Christian Eriksen. Firstly, Vertonghen and Alderweireld already have a lot of match experience playing alongside each other for Belgium as well as Ajax. This could prove to be a very effective partnership indeed, as they are already well acquainted and will be comfortable working together. Secondly, this previous friendship and camaraderie will ensure a happier and harmonious squad. For the same reason, Alderweireld may want to join Spurs to reunite with Vertonghen, and it is likely he will want to remain for a long while, too.
As aforementioned, Alderweireld is only 25 and thus has many years to reach his peak. He fits in with Pochettino’s young side and tactics and would help to push on the likes of Dier as they compete for places. Competition is a very important part in any squad, but it requires players of the same high quality, else there is no competition. There was a clear lack of competition for the centre-back place last year as Fazio proved ineffective, Younes Kaboul appeared to play his last games for the club and Vlad Chiriches proved why he wasn’t deserving of a start. This left Vertonghen to be guaranteed a place in the next starting line-up, which caused his standards to drop too. Alderweireld would be an exceptional backup, but most importantly, a player that will even challenge Vertonghen to stepping up his game. Don’t forget that with the arrival of Kieran Trippier, Dier will also be primarily focused on winning that starting place too. This competition creates a healthy squad.
All in all, Alderweireld would be a good signing for Spurs. He is clearly capable of playing high-quality football and is already acquainted with the Premier League and some of his Spurs team-mates. Fans would relish the opportunity of seeing his name on the starting lineup, especially alongside team-mate Jan Vertonghen. If there’s one transfer that Spurs should make this summer, Alderweireld is the man.
