View: Pape Matar Sarr could feel like a new Tottenham signing for Ange Postecoglou
It has been suggested Tottenham might move for a new central midfielder this summer, however, they might already have the perfect one within their ranks.
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg has been linked with a move away from Spurs during the transfer window and there have been suggestions that Ange Postecoglou’s side could be searching the market for a replacement for the Dane.
However, one midfielder already on the club’s books could be ready to make the step up and begin featuring regularly for the Australian manager in the form of Pape Matar Sarr.
Although still just 20 years of age, the Senegalese midfielder has already displayed maturity beyond his years with some of his performances last season and he might be ready to make the step up, even if it is just as a squad player for the time being.
Rodrigo Bentancur (when he returns from injury), James Maddison and Yves Bissouma are all expected to be part of 57-year-old Postecoglou’s starting midfield next season and there is no reason why Sarr cannot be a suitable option from the bench.
The former Celtic boss has already spoken highly of Sarr during a press conference which suggests he could have big plans for the young midfielder.
When asked during a press conference if Sarr would be part of his plans for next season, Postecoglou said as reported by Football London (25 July): “Absolutely. What a player. He never stops smiling, what else do you want from a footballer? He’s outstanding and he’s always happy. I’ve seen plenty of outstanding players who are fairly miserable.”
And those “outstanding” qualities were clear to see last season, even if it was just in moments. A particular highlight from the youngster’s season was his performance against AC Milan during the first leg of the Champions League last 16.
Although Tottenham lost 1-0 at the San Siro, Sarr, playing alongside Oliver Skipp – another midfield option for Spurs this season – was absolutely brilliant. Neither player would have expected to start, however, injuries made their presence necessary.
Sarr played the full 90 and was one of the North London side’s best players, making 77 touches, completing 49 of the 59 passes he attempted, winning seven of his 11 ground duels, and making one interception and five tackles (Sofascore).
Despite the strong performance, none of Spurs’ three managers last season rewarded the player with much game time, as this would be his only Champions League appearance and he would only feature for 211 minutes in the Premier League.
If he is to see more game time this season, it could truly feel like a new signing for the club, and with himself, Skipp, Bentancur, Maddison, Bissouma and perhaps even Giovani Lo Celso and Tanguy Ndombele as midfield options, the search for a new central midfielder could potentially be put on hold, with bigger priorities lying elsewhere.
In other Tottenham news, the stats and tactics suggest it might be time for another player to move on.