Tottenham want to sign ‘next elite’ defender, Levy needs to pay £8.5m – report

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly setting their sights on bolstering their defensive options in the upcoming summer transfer window.

Despite having a seemingly solid group of center-backs, including Micky van de Ven, Cristian Romero, Radu Dragusin, and the versatile Ben Davies, Spurs have faced significant challenges due to injuries and a lack of depth in recent seasons.

The addition of Archie Gray, who can also slot into defense, has provided some flexibility, but the reality is that Tottenham’s backline has been stretched thin at critical moments. Over the past two seasons, both Van de Ven and Romero have missed substantial periods due to injuries, leaving manager Ange Postecoglou with limited options.

At one point this season, the Australian coach had no choice but to field Dragusin and Gray together, a makeshift pairing that highlighted the urgent need for reinforcements.

The defensive instability has undoubtedly impacted Tottenham’s results, exposing the necessity for greater depth and quality in their backline. This has prompted the club to explore potential signings, with Genk’s young center-back Matte Smets emerging as a target.

According to a report from the Sunday Mirror, Spurs are considering a move for the 21-year-old Belgian, who is already being touted as the “next elite defender.” Smets, who has earned one cap for the Belgian national team, is known for his toughness, composure on the ball, and confidence in his position.

With a reported price tag of around £8.5 million, he represents an affordable and promising option for Tottenham as they look to strengthen their squad.

The potential signing of Smets could evoke memories of Tottenham’s successful Belgian defensive duo, Toby Alderweireld and Jan Vertonghen, who played pivotal roles during their time at the club.

Smets’ arrival would not only add depth but also provide competition for places, pushing the likes of Van de Ven and Romero to maintain their high standards. For Daniel Levy, the move would align with Tottenham’s recent strategy of investing in young, talented players with high potential rather than splashing out on expensive, established stars.

This approach makes financial sense and offers long-term benefits, especially in a season that has been marked by inconsistency and frustration.

Postecoglou, who has enjoyed considerable support from Levy despite the team’s struggles, now faces a critical period. With most of his squad returning to full fitness, fans are demanding an improvement in results.

Tottenham’s Premier League campaign has been underwhelming, and securing a top-ten finish remains a challenging task. However, the Europa League presents an opportunity to salvage the season and end on a high note.

Success in the competition could provide a much-needed boost and potentially influence the club’s approach to the summer transfer window.

As Tottenham prepare for the offseason, their focus appears to be on building a squad capable of competing consistently at the highest level. Signing a player like Smets would be a step in the right direction, offering a blend of youth, talent, and affordability.

While the club’s immediate priority is to address their defensive vulnerabilities, the long-term vision seems to revolve around nurturing young players who can grow and thrive under Postecoglou’s guidance.

For Spurs fans, the hope is that these strategic moves will pave the way for a brighter future, one that sees the club return to its former glory and compete for major honors once again.