Time flies, and the January transfer window is on the horizon. When it comes to additions to Ange Postecoglou’s squad, Patrick Dorgu should be the top target, and here’s why.
Destiny Udogie needs cover and competition
Throughout Postecoglou‘s time at Tottenham, Destiny Udogie has enjoyed near-free rein as the only out-and-out left-back in the squad.
For the most part, the young Italian has been outstanding in the role, too. But, it’s hard to deny that complacency hasn’t crept into his game of late, with Udogie’s performance against Brighton being of particular concern.
Postecolgou is not without options at left-back, but none are ideal. Ben Davies can play there, but doesn’t possess the dynamism to suit Postecoglou’s style of play; Djed Spence and Archie Gray can operate there, but are stronger on the right; and if he’s really desperate, there’s still Sergio Reguilon to call upon.
That kind of compromise simply will not do, though. If Spurs truly want to challenge for honours, the squad needs intense competition for places, and signing a new left-back will help make that happen.
Doing so would not only keep Udogie on his toes and also allow him to take a rest every now and again, but it would also mean Spence could stay on the right and Gray could be used in midfield more.
Patrick Dorgu is a perfect fit for Spurs
The signing has to be right, though — this cannot simply be a gap-filling exercise. In Patrick Dorgu, Postecoglou would find the perfect left-back to suit his needs.
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At 19-years-old, Dorgu fits the age profile Spurs are clearly looking at these days. He’s also tall, strong, and incredibly athletic, so he would be more than capable of keeping up with the demands of Ange-ball.
Dorgu is slightly less adventurous and more disciplined than Udogie, and would serve Postecoglou well in the more open games where he needs his full-backs to be alert to counter-attacks.
That’s not to say the Danish defender cannot contribute going forward, though. He’s actually responsible for more shot-creating actions per 90 minutes this season than Udogie, and he’s registered more progressive carries per 90 than the Spurs man, too.
A reasonably-priced option
Players don’t come cheap in the current climate, but with an expected price tag of just under £30m, Dorgu would not break the bank and given his potential, could end up being worth twice that amount in years to come.