Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly the frontrunners to sign Athletico Paranaense defender Arthur Dias, as per TEAMtalk.
Having struggled with their defensive frailties, the Lilywhites decided to address this issue by signing Jan Paul van Hecke and Marcos Senesi this summer.
Moreover, following Destiny Udogie’s persistent fitness problems, Spurs signed Andrew Robertson as a free agent. However, Tottenham have endured a difficult start this season.
As a result, it appears Roberto De Zerbi is considering adding further depth to the defensive department. Now, TEAMtalk claim that Spurs are interested in Dias after monitoring his development closely in recent times.
They even held talks to enquire about the details of signing him, but Athletico Paranaense have made it clear that they don’t want to part ways with him, with his existing deal set to run until 2028.
However, Tottenham haven’t given up hope of finalising the operation, and if the Brazilian side are ultimately forced to cash-in on him, they want around £26m.
The report state that apart from De Zerbi’s side, Newcastle United, Nottingham Forest, Brentford, RB Leipzig, Bayer Leverkusen, Atalanta, Como, Atlético Madrid and Benfica are also interested in him. However, Tottenham are currently in pole position in this race.
Dias to Tottenham
Dias is a 6ft 2in tall left-footed centre-back but can provide cover in the left-back position if needed. After coming through the Brazilian side’s youth system, he has established himself as a key starter.
He is quick, can play out from the back and is efficient in defensive contributions. The 19-year-old is a talented player and possesses high potential. Therefore, he would be a shrewd acquisition for Tottenham with a view to the long-term future should they purchase him.
However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the North London club eventually manage to secure his services in January or next summer.
Meanwhile, following a disappointing back-to-back 0-0 draws against Nottingham Forest and Everton in the Premier League, Tottenham have been knocked out of the Carabao Cup by Liverpool in midweek.
Now, they are set to face struggling Aston Villa in the league on Saturday before the long international break.
