14 goals, 7 assists – Tottenham signing this £6.5m Porto star would be a fantastic addition

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Why Tottenham should go ahead with their pursuit of Luis Diaz

According to Portuguese newspaper Record (h/t Daily Express), Tottenham Hotspur have expressed an interest in Porto midfielder Luis Diaz.

The report also suggests that Spurs’ boss Jose Mourinho is keen on bringing him to the side having secured a Europa League spot following their sixth-place finish in the league this term. Diaz, meanwhile, has been an instant hit in Portugal since his £6.5million move from Columbian top-flight side Junior FC last summer.

FC Porto's Colombian forward Luis Diaz celebrates after scoring a goal during the UEFA Europa League match against Glasgow Rangers back in October.
FC Porto winger Luis Diaz celebrates after scoring a goal during the UEFA Europa League match against Glasgow Rangers back in October. (Getty Images)

The 23-year-old midfielder, who likes to operate from the left flank has turned heads despite it being his first season at the Estádio do Dragão. He has scored an impressive 14 goals and provided seven assists from all competitions for Porto and has been key to the side’s rise back to the top of the league this term.

Diaz’s excellent attacking displays have seen him emerge as one of the first names on the teamsheet at Porto. Having proved himself at such a short time, it is not a big surprise Mourinho has shown an interest in the young Columbian. Diaz is also a member of his national side and has made 13 appearances for them so far, suggesting that he is not short of experience.

Diaz could be a valuable asset for Tottenham

Meanwhile, for Spurs, it has not been the best of seasons despite their sixth-place finish this season. Though Mourinho’s arrival has stabilised Tottenham compared to their displays in the first half of the season, there is still a lot of work to be done.

Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho on the touchline.
Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho on the touchline. (Getty Images)

Tottenham currently have Heung-min Son as the side’s first-choice winger on the left side of the pitch. Son with his excellent displays over the last few seasons has nailed down that spot for himself, however, they lack depth in that.

The only back-up they have is winter signing Steven Bergwijn, who has put up a decent display so far with three goals from his 14 league appearances.

Apart from these two, Mourinho just has summer signing Ryan Sessegnon across the left flank. Having made just six league appearances this term, however, it is clear that Mourinho does not prefer him.

Moreover, he is just 20 and has a lot more to develop in his game. That said, Tottenham’s interest in Diaz makes complete sense. His versatility to play both as a midfielder and a winger further makes him a valuable asset to any side, let alone Tottenham. Hence, Spurs should continue their pursuit of Diaz and bring him to England.

Ryan Sessegnon arrived at Tottenham from Fulham last summer.
Ryan Sessegnon arrived at Tottenham from Fulham just last summer. (Getty Images)

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Verdict

Tottenham have a dearth of left-midfielders and Diaz’s addition will only make them stronger next season. Also, his versatility would be an added benefit for boss Mourinho. Moreover, he has already proved himself at club and country level at just 23 and could prove to be an excellent signing for the future.