Opinion: After Dragusin, Spurs to seal dream window with move for Gvardiol second
Ange Postecoglou appears to be on the verge of securing Radu Dragusin’s transfer, but Tottenham Hotspur’s reinforcement efforts don’t conclude there.
Currently sitting in fifth place in the Premier League with a series of recent victories, Spurs have overcome issues from earlier in the season under manager Ange Postecoglou.
Despite a brief slip in November, injuries and suspensions notwithstanding, they’ve found their footing again, aided by the return of key players like Micky van de Ven and James Maddison from injury.
Seeking reinforcements across various positions, Postecoglou seems close to welcoming centre-back Radu Dragusin and forward Timo Werner. However, the club’s attention extends beyond these acquisitions.
Spurs’ interest in versatile Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly persists. Despite a previously unsuccessful £20m bid, Kelly’s contract expiration at the end of the season has put Tottenham on alert to possibly make a move while also competing against the interests of AC Milan and Juventus.
Described by journalist Jamie Weir as adept at playing a high line with leadership qualities, Kelly’s £30k-per-week deal at Bournemouth since his £13m arrival in 2019 has seen him contribute significantly, featuring in 126 matches, scoring twice, and providing seven assists.
| Lloyd Kelly: Key Characteristics | |
|---|---|
| Strengths | Weaknesses |
| Ball retention | Crossing |
| Blocking | Tackling |
| Concentration | |
| *Sourced via WhoScored | |
Kelly’s abilities and impact have received acclaim, particularly in Scott Parker’s admiration of his potential to become a top Premier League centre-half. His performances, highlighted by a notable 2021/22 season, demonstrated his quality through key statistics and defensive contributions.
Comparisons to Manchester City’s Josko Gvardiol showcase Kelly’s potential for versatility and quality. Gvardiol’s presence in the Premier League, his adeptness in left-back and his commendable stats underline his skill set, often praised for creativity and efficiency in defence.
| Lloyd Kelly: Most Similar PL Players | ||
|---|---|---|
| # | Player | Club |
| 1 | Lisandro Martinez | Manchester United |
| 2 | Josko Gvardiol | Manchester City |
| 3 | Harry Maguire | Manchester United |
| 4 | Wesley Fofana | Chelsea |
| 5 | Joel Matip | Liverpool |
| *Sourced via Football Transfers | ||
While Kelly may not currently match Gvardiol’s level, his style and attributes align well with Spurs’ system, offering versatility in left-back and central defence roles.
Tottenham’s pursuit of Dragusin doesn’t preclude the potential addition of Kelly, especially considering the possibility of Eric Dier’s departure to Bayern Munich.
With Kelly’s defensive qualities, resemblance in style to Gvardiol, and potential to fortify Spurs’ backline, his signing would offer depth and versatility needed to thrive, particularly in European competition, aligning with Postecoglou’s ambitions for the club.
The potential addition of Kelly, alongside Dragusin, could complete a highly successful defensive overhaul for Tottenham this transfer window.
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