Spurs to move for Swiss prodigy?
Tottenham have been linked with a transfer for Swiss international Breel Embolo, who is set to feature in France at Euro 2016.
It is suspected that Embolo will leave Basel after the announcement from the club’s Sporting Director Georg Heitz announcing: “It’s very probable that he’ll leave this summer”, with a number of high profile clubs, including Manchester United and Juventus being linked with a move for the Cameroon-born attacker.
So what does he bring?
Embolo offers pace, athleticism and agility as a forward, with UEFA describing him as “powerful, technically strong and decisive. He has explosive pace and is a composed finisher”.
The 19 year old is often deployed as a right winger for Basel as his ability to take on players and direct style offers versatility on the pitch.
Embolo scored 13 goals and created 13 assists for Basel during the 2015/16 season, which may not prolific but emphasises his ability to both score and create chances for his teammates. Embolo’s ability to hold up the ball and link up play due to his physical strength is a key asset to his game and he could prove a great fit as one of the three players in behind Kane.
Whilst Embolo’s experience may be questioned as he is only 19 years old, but he has already made over 70 appearances for Basel in all competitions — including the Champions League. Similar to Dele Alli’s time at MK Dons, this could be the moment that he steps up to a new level.
Embolo’s profile could be seen as the exact for that Spurs will likely to be looking to buy this summer; a young striker with raw potential to offer competition for Harry Kane.
A player like Embolo can be moulded and developed by Pochettino. Embolo’s pace can stretch the opposition and offers the opportunity to play two strikers, with Kane playing off of Embolo.
So could it happen?
The prospect of Tottenham signing Embolo would be an exciting prospect, but could prove dependent upon whether Pochettino places faith in fellow striker Clinton N’jie, who offers similar qualities in terms of pace and taking on players.
However, if Embolo were to have an outstanding Euros it is likely that demand will rise as interest across Europe increases. With Levy being renowned as a shrewd negotiator, a sudden increase in price for the player could see the collapse of any possible transfer to White Hart Lane.
Written by Tom Hackett
