Tottenham have yet to make a signing this summer, but they are determined to strengthen their squad before the transfer deadline. Davinson Sanchez is one player being heavily linked and the Ajax defender is believed to be keen on a move to North London. Spurs haven’t been overly effective in the transfer market during the last 12 months, with Vincent Janssen and Moussa Sissoko being two big-name signings that underwhelmed. If they choose to do business before the window closes, it is important that they are shrewd in their purchases and target players that will add something to the current squad.
Mauricio Pochettino wants to sign a new centre-back to provide more competition at the back. There is also the small issue that his squad is unbalanced for the 3-4-2-1 formation that he opts for regularly. Sanchez would be a good signing for Tottenham as he is young and has the potential to develop into one of the best in his position. He won’t demand regular football straight away, but he is already at the level that he could contribute when required. The Colombian has shown enough during his one year at Ajax to suggest he can compete at a high level and his potential is obvious. Under the Tottenham coach, he could develop into a fine player very quickly.
The defender has the physical attributes to dominate strikers in one-on-one duels. He is powerful and strong, which allows him to dominate in the air, as displayed by his average of 2.4 successful aerial duels per game in the Eredivisie last season. In addition to his strength, Sanchez is quick and mobile, allowing him to be an effective defender both aerially and on the ground. Although his positioning is sometimes questionable, it is hidden by his pace, as he is capable of recovering quickly. The 21-year-old arrived in the Netherlands with a big reputation and he quickly backed that up with performances.
Sanchez is good in possession and capable of launching attacks from deep, which makes him perfect for the 3-4-2-1 formation that Tottenham use often. He is confident on the ball and able to distribute it effectively. Last season, he had a pass success rate of 88.9%, underlining the technical ability that he possesses. Although he has had only one season at Ajax, his technique has improved immeasurably.
The 21-year-old arrived in the Netherlands with a big reputation and he quickly backed that up with performances. He should be more than capable of adapting quickly to English football and that makes him an attractive option for Pochettino. If they are to spend big money on a centre back, they will want one that will be able to take the move in their stride. Sanchez’s immediate success with Ajax suggests that won’t be a problem for him if a move does go through.
Although the Ajax defender wouldn’t have been one of the first names on the minds of Tottenham supporters, he would be an excellent capture for the club. It is a signing that suits what the club have been doing in recent seasons, as he could develop into a world class player under the guidance of Pochettino. The rumoured fee is high, but his potential is huge and Spurs would be backing the coaching ability of the Argentine to develop Sanchez. Based on the club’s recent success of improving players, this is a transfer worth doing.
