Why Tottenham Hotspur must sell Toby Alderweireld and sign Benjamin Pavard
Tottenham Hotspur are lining up French international Benjamin Pavard from VfB Stuttgart, to replace wantaway star Toby Alderweireld. The North London club seem to be impressed with what the Frenchman did in the recently concluded World Cup and are seeking the possibility of a move.
The 22-year-old was one of the breakout stars of the showpiece event and is now a world champion to further enhance his stock. His versatility is one of his major strengths, as he lined up as a right-back for France despite playing most of his games as a centre-back for Stuttgart.
Here’s why Spurs must sell Alderweireld and sign Pavard:
Player Analysis – Benjamin Pavard
Age – 22
Main Position – Defender (centre or right)
Current Club – VfB Stuttgart
Pavard’s ability to play across several positions has made him one of the brightest French stars in the past year or so. The 22-year-old is extremely diligent on the field, often remaining alert to sniff out potential attacking threats. He is always quick to step out from the defence to intercept a pass, at an average of 2.1 per game.
Pavard doesn’t shy away from tackles and that is something the Premier League fans would love to see. He has a tackle rate of 1.6 per game, epitomizing his will to win balls by being tenacious and aggressive.
The Frenchman’s ability to play as a right-back is quite impressive as well. He has a pass accuracy of 83.7% and possesses incisiveness in long diagonal balls to change the point of attack. Furthermore, the 22-year-old doesn’t easily get beaten in one-on-one situations.
There is something about Pavard which sets him apart from others. At 22, he has a long way to go but perhaps joining Spurs and working under a task-master like Mauricio Pochettino will amplify his game two-fold.
Read More: Daniel Levy should sign World Cup hero who would add steel to Tottenham’s defence
Conclusion
Selling Alderweireld would be a blow for Spurs but acquiring a player as talented as Pavard should soften the blow. The Frenchman can not only replace the Belgian but also act as an adequate backup for Kieran Trippier at right-back/right wing-back.
Pavard possesses the pace and physical attributes to become a special player in England. He has loads of playing years ahead of him and moving to London will certainly help him improve further and perform at the highest level regularly. Furthermore, signing for Spurs will allow him time to develop and understand the game before imposing his qualities.
Stats Courtesy – Whoscored.com
