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Go For It Pochettino – This £7million Eredivisie Star Would Be An Excellent Signing For Tottenham

Joel Veltman

Why Joel Veltman Would Be An Excellent Signing For Tottenham

With a clicking squad already in the hands of Mauricio Pochettino, Tottenham are unlikely to bring in a whole lot of new players this summer. Spurs have been more focused on letting go of their unwanted players rather than bring in any new ones.

However, there are a few areas in the squad that would require further strengthening in the case of any unexpected injuries, particularly in the centre-back positions. The club’s central defence played a pivotal role in securing 2nd place in the League last season, thanks to the solid partnership of Jan Vertonghen and Toby Alderweireld at the back. But even the best centre-back partnership in the League needs healthy competition and that competition could be Netherlands international, Joel Veltman.

Origin Of Veltman

Having joined Ajax in 2001, Veltman made his way through the youth ranks to break into the first team in 2012-13 season. Having impressed in his breakthrough season with the Dutch club, Veltman was elevated to the Netherlands national team by Frank de Boer. He also featured in the team that beat Spain 5-1 in the 2014 FIFA World Cup. The 25-year-old has been the first choice centre-back for Ajax for over five seasons now and was a key figure in the club’s route to the Europa League final last season.

Strengths

The Dutch international has primarily played as a centre-back for most his career but thanks to his versatility, he can also play as a right-back. Veltman’s main strengths are his work-rate and tackling, which allow him to get the better of strong opponents. The 25-year-old also doesn’t shy away from going forward as he often produces descent crosses from wide areas.

How much will he cost?

The Dutch international only has a year remaining on his contract with Ajax making it much easier for Tottenham to acquire the defender. If Spurs can negotiate well, Ajax could settle for as less as £7million (which is actually his market value) for Veltman this summer. The price would be a bargain considering his Champions League experience and performances in the Europa League last season.

Joel Veltman could come straight into the Spurs backline in case Toby Alderweireld decides to part ways with the club. The Belgium international is currently under contract with the club until 2020 and is waiting for a new and improved proposal from Spurs. In case a new contract fails to materialise, Veltman could possibly become the club’s first choice alongside Vertonghen.