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Tottenham Hotspur are now racing to sign a "superstar" £100m striker during the January transfer window, according to a report.

Spurs keen to strengthen in January

One of Ange Postecoglou's main priorities this month is likely to be signing a new defender, given that the ongoing injury crisis at N17 has left him with just one available senior centre-back, namely Radu Dragusin.

However, there are signs that Tottenham may also be keen on strengthening their strike force, with Randal Kolo Muani becoming the latest player to be linked with a move to north London, where he would compete with Dominic Solanke for a starting spot.

Spurs also opened talks with Lille striker Jonathan David last month, highlighting their desire to bring in a new forward at some point in the near future, and they may have just been handed a perfect opportunity to bring in an up-and-coming striker.

According to a report from TEAMtalk, Brighton & Hove Albion have given the green light for Evan Ferguson to leave the club this month, potentially opening the door for a move to north London, with Spurs 'racing' to sign him.

Tottenham are keen on strengthening in a number of areas this month, with the striker being named as one of them, given that Richarlison has underperformed when given the opportunity.

Ferguson could become a key target for Spurs as the January transfer window progresses, with Brighton making him available on loan. Tottenham are 'eager' to agree a loan deal, although they want to include an option or obligation to buy in the summer.

The striker, who was previously valued at £100m by the Seagulls, is attracting the interest of a number of Premier League sides, with Chelsea also named as potential suitors, so there may be stiff competition for his signature this month.

Evan Ferguson could be a shrewd signing Spurs

The Irishman has not had much of a look in at Brighton this season, with the report revealing that it is likely he will leave his current club this month, at the very least on a loan deal.

However, there are signs he could go on to achieve great things, having been lauded after scoring a well-taken goal in the FA Cup just under two years ago:

Still only 20-years-old, the youngster could be the type of talismanic striker Tottenham need if he is given a consistent run in the team, having already proven he has a keen eye for goal in the Premier League, scoring six goals in each of his last two seasons.

However, Spurs should look to sign Ferguson on a permanent deal rather than a loan, as there is little point in helping Brighton develop a young player just for him to be sent back.

It would be fair to say that, so far anyway, this season has not been a great one for Tottenham Hotspur.

The North Londoners find themselves down in 11th place in the Premier League, and while they have a League Cup semi-final to look forward to, it's against the seemingly unstoppable Liverpool.

However, while the mood around the club is far from ideal at present, there have been a couple of positives to come from the campaign, notably the emergence of the sensationally gifted Mikey Moore.

So, recent reports linking the club to another young talent who could be even better than the Englishman should seriously excite the fans.

Tottenham Hotspur transfer news

According to a recent report from Spain, Tottenham are one of several clubs interested in Barcelona's tremendously exciting young striker, Vitor Roque.

Alongside the Lilywhites, the report has revealed that fellow Premier League sides Newcastle United, Crystal Palace and Brentford are also considering the promising centre-forward as a potential target for the summer transfer window once his loan to Real Betis has been completed.

This competition and the fact that Betis have an option for another year-long loan and an option to buy into their deal could complicate matters.

However, Spurs could still get ahead of the competition by flexing their financial muscle, and, according to reports from earlier this year, an offer in the region of £29m could be enough to secure the youngster's services, although that was before his recent uptick in form, so the fee could be higher today.

It could be a costly transfer to get over the line, particularly for someone his age, but given Roque's form this season and the potential so many believe him to possess, it's one well worth pursuing, especially if he ends up being better than the incredible Moore.

Why Roque could be even better than Moore

Okay, so the very first thing we should say is that, as things stand, from his performances in the youth sides to how he has been spoken about by those in the know and his short cameos this season, Moore looks like he could develop into a truly exceptional star.

Predicting a player's future can be a tricky business indeed, but the young Englishman looks like he has everything he needs to become a true world-beater over the next five or six years, and so does Roque.

In fact, while the Spurs gem has made eight, mostly substitute, appearances for the first team this year, he still has yet to score or assist a goal, which cannot be said about the 19-year-old Brazilian.

For example, in 23 appearances for Betis this season, 14 of which have been starts, the "truly magnificent" prospect, as dubbed by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has scored six goals and provided two assists.

Moreover, for someone his age, he has some seriously impressive offensive underlying numbers.

According to FBref, the Barça gem sits in the top 12% of forwards across Europe's top five leagues, the Champions League and Europa League, for non-penalty expected goals, the top 14% for total shots and the top 16% for progressive carries, all per 90.

If that still isn't enough to convince you that the "special" talent, as dubbed by former Atlético Madrid star Diego, could become one of the world's best strikers, then perhaps his statistics from his final season in Brazil will.

For example, in just 45 senior games across the 2023 season, the incredible phenom scored 21 goals and provided eight assists, meaning he averaged a goal involvement every 1.55 games, which is a ridiculous rate of return for anyone, let alone a teenager.

Ultimately, Spurs already have several exciting prospects at the club, but Roque looks like he could turn into a genuine world-class talent, and a frontline with him and Moore could be truly special a few years from now.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou is now keeping tabs on a midfielder who could be available for a bargain fee this month, according to a report.

Tottenham struggling to get going in the Premier League

Tottenham have recorded some impressive victories this season, defeating Manchester City 4-0 away from home at the end of November, while also putting an impressive run together to reach the semi-finals of the EFL Cup.

However, Postecoglou's side have struggled with consistency, most recently being held back by an injury crisis in defence which left the manager with just one fit centre-back for the disappointing 2-2 home draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers.

As such, the manager may have to strengthen this month to get his side's season back on track, and Spurs are now keen on bringing in players in a number of different positions.

With so many defenders out injured, the Lilywhites may have to enter the market for a centre-back, and they are now believed to have opened talks over a deal for Borussia Monchengladbach's Ko Ikatura.

Postecoglou is also personally driving a deal for a new forward, and he could look to raid one of his previous clubs, with Celtic's Nicholas Kuhn believed to be of interest after a prolific first half of the season up in Scotland.

Now, Spurs are also being linked with a move for a new midfielder, with GiveMeSport reporting that they are closely monitoring Lyon's Maxence Caqueret, who could be available for a bargain fee this winter. The 24-year-old, who is said to earn £54,000-per-week, may be available for a cut-price fee this month, given that Lyon are in a perilous financial position, and Tottenham are waiting in the wings to take full advantage.

There is set to be competition from other Premier League clubs, however, with rivals West Ham United, Crystal Palace and Everton also named as potential suitors.

Intriguing opportunity for Tottenham

Should Lyon be forced to cash-in on the Frenchman this month, Spurs should not hesitate to make an approach, given just how impressive he is as an all-round midfielder.

The Lyon star ranks in the 96th percentile for successful take-ons and the 91st percentile for tackles per 90 over the past year, when compared to his positional peers, highlighting his ability both on the front foot and in defence.

Football talent scout Jacek Kulig has also been full of praise for the maestro in the past, describing him as "pure quality and intelligence mixed with an amazing work rate".

Lyon's loss could be Tottenham's gain if they are forced to make a sale this winter, and Postecoglou should continue to monitor how the situation continues to develop over the next few weeks.

However, given that Spurs are still struggling for numbers in defence due to the sheer number of injuries they have suffered, signing a new centre-back should remain Postecoglou's priority this month.

Tottenham Hotspur have now held internal talks over a move for a "skilful" English player, according to a report.

Ange Postecoglou facing injury crisis

Tottenham's squad is depleted as we enter the January transfer window, with Radu Dragusin the only partially fit centre-back available to Ange Postecoglou, who has since said he was forced to play the Romanian in the draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers: "Well we had no choice, if Radu doesn't play, I don't know who plays.

"He wasn't 100%, but he felt he could get through with his ankle. We've got no choice unless I throw another 18 or 17-year-old out there. That's the only fit players we have."

To make matters worse, Spurs' injury crisis comes at a time when there is some tricky games on the horizon, so Postecoglou may be forced to enter the market for a new defender in the January transfer window.

Several players have been linked with moves to N17, but there is now a new target entering the frame, with The Boot Room reporting that AC Milan's Fikayo Tomari is attracting interest for a move this January.

A number of Premier League clubs are said to be looking at the defender, with Tomori's name being circled to several different teams as he begins to consider his future at San Siro. Tottenham are said to have discussed a move for the Englishman in the past few weeks, as he has fallen down the pecking order considerably at AC Milan.

The defender has featured for just 11 minutes since October 19th, and he is beginning to become unhappy with his game time, which could potentially lead to a move elsewhere. However, the 27-year-old's situation could change in the near future, as new manager Sergio Conceicao may decide to reintroduce him to the starting XI.

Tomori could be a solid addition for Spurs

Although the former Chelsea man has struggled for game time this season, he has enjoyed a successful spell with MIlan, making a minimum of 25 Serie A appearances in each of his last three seasons. Milan legend Franco Baresi clearly rates the Canada-born defender very highly, having described him as "skilful" in the past, while also praising him for his "great physical attributes."

Previous reports have stated that Milan would be willing to sanction the £72k-per-week centre-back's departure for a fee in the region of £21m this month, potentially making him an affordable option for Tottenham, should they decide to pursue a deal.

It is clear that Spurs will need to bring in a new centre-back in the near future, given the ongoing injury crisis at the club which risks derailing their season even further, and Tomori could be a solid addition to the squad.

A misfiring frontline might not be the crux of Tottenham Hotspur's mounting problems, but Ange Postecoglou will be sure to recognise the pressing need for something more up top.

Defensively, Spurs are in a bit of a rut, not least because Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven are spending a second successive winter sidelined with injuries.

If the right opportunity comes along during the January transfer window, Tottenham will be sure to pounce. Well, a talented striker might just be up for grabs.

Spurs eyeing new centre-forward

As per The Independent's Miguel Delaney, Tottenham and Everton are set to join Fulham in the race for Evan Ferguson this winter, with Brighton & Hove Albion's talented striker available on loan.

Ferguson, valued as high as £100m last summer, has struggled for game time this term due to the success of Joao Pedro and Danny Welbeck. Aged 20, he's got so much room for growth and already boasts a stunning ball-striking ability.

Tottenham aren't the only team in for Ferguson's touted signature, however, with Chelsea considering a move of their own. Daniel Levy needs to act quickly and with conviction.

What Evan Ferguson would bring to Spurs

Signing Ferguson on loan might be a move that benefits all parties, should Tottenham accelerate their interest over the coming weeks.

He's only started two Premier League matches this season, scoring one goal, but is endowed with strength and speed and has been hailed as "one of the most exciting strikers" around by content creator Ryan Adsett.

Let's not forget, Ferguson has already demonstrated his capabilities in the top flight, notching six goals from 15 starts as a teenager last year, only missing four big chances, as per Sofascore.

The 6-foot centre-forward might even shape into one of English football's most potent forces, with his style of play even drawing comparisons to one Harry Kane.

Former Premier League striker John Aldridge has even said that Ferguson could become "an Irish version of Harry Kane" and that he reminds him of the Three Lions captain "in so many ways."

Tottenham's record scorer with 280 goals from 435 appearances as a senior Lilywhite, Kane is a modern great, one of the finest Premier League strikers in history, so Ferguson could do worse than draw comparisons with the Tottenham legend.

Kane, 31, may be tearing it up in the German Bundesliga but his standing in the English game remains firmly intact. He's one of the very best to do it, and so perhaps it's not all that surprising that Ferguson has actually admitted that he idolises the goal machine.

Given that Alan Shearer, another iconic marksman, has praised Ferguson for having the full package, it's quite clear that Tottenham could be on to something if they were to complete the signing this winter.

Former Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi once said that Ferguson's "improvement has been incredible" after his transition from the Irish game to the Premier League, and he still has so much left to offer.

His raw striking ability certainly offers shades of a young Kane; Spurs must welcome him to the fold and allow him to join a free-scoring team that perhaps needs something to complement and tussle with Dominic Solanke at number nine.

Tottenham Hotspur will want to approach the new year with a clean slate, having fallen by the wayside in recent weeks.

Ange Postecoglou's stubborn implementation of his free-flowing, attack-focused brand has unmoored the fanbase's collective belief and devotion to the cause. Spurs have been buffeted by injuries but a refusal to tweak things has compounded the struggle.

This is the case, but the Australian coach must be frustrated that Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero have been sidelined together for successive winters down N17.

The spare parts haven't upheld Postecoglou's tactical virtues, and it's all become rather messy, 11th in the Premier League and 11 points off fourth-placed Chelsea. The frontline is firing but the balance is wonky.

Tottenham must reinforce a talented group of players with more quality, more depth, more dynamism. The polarising Daniel Levy appears to have an ambitious name in mind.

Spurs eyeing new centre-back

As per The Mail on Sunday - via TEAMtalk - Tottenham are interested in pursuing a deal for Everton centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite and have held internal talks to work out the possibility of a bid.

Branthwaite is one of the best up-and-coming defenders in Europe and was the centre of vested attention from Manchester United last summer, but Everton stood firm with their lofty valuation.

Indeed, Branthwaite, 22, has been appraised at about £80m by the Merseysiders, meaning that Levy would need to break Tottenham's transfer record to bring him to the capital.

What Jarrad Branthwaite would bring to Spurs

Branthwaite enjoyed his first season of sustained Premier League football under Sean Dyche's wing last year and was hailed as an "absolute monster" by talent scout Jacek Kulig after his... well, monstrous performances.

He's not the complete defender. Not yet. However, Branthwaite's accuracy and destructive defensive skill make it clear that he's got the minerals to be a first-class player in a first-class team.

Tottenham aren't yet a top-class team under Postecoglou despite sporadic bits of brilliance, but this player-club marriage could bear dividends for a side capable of achieving great things over the coming years.

It's no coincidence that Everton's dismal start to the 2024/25 campaign played out with Branthwaite in the infirmary and that Dyche's defensive grit has been rekindled in recent months, the hulking ace having returned and kept five clean sheets across just 11 Premier League appearances.

He's won 81% of his ground duels, ludicrously high, and could be the difference-maker as Everton seek to preserve their Premier League status with confidence over the coming months.

With some work and care, he could become a superstar at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, potentially becoming even better than Romero and Van de Ven.

Branthwaite's potential to be better than Romero & Van de Ven

Tottenham's preferred defensive axis are formidable and versatile when on their a-game, but the London club's inconsistencies have disrupted what could be sheer brilliance, injuries compounding their woes further.

With Romero and Van de Ven in the team this season, Spurs have conceded eight goals from nine Premier League fixtures; without them, Ange has watched his patchwork defence leak 18 goals from just eight games.

They have their foibles, to be sure, but Van de Ven's incredible athleticism and Romero's fearsome aggression have fused together to plant the seed of something special. Of course, they share a mutual technical ability that matches the finest of their positional peers across Europe.

For Branthwaite to enter the fray at Tottenham and insinuate himself in the starting line-up would be quite a feat, but Tottenham have indeed suffered regular absences from both of their titans in recent years and could do with another presence to add some more steel.

Who knows, Branthwaite may even find himself dethroning one of the starting members as he improves under Ange's guidance.

There's a lot to unpack. Something curious that's worthy of discussion, however, is Branthwaite's 85% pass success rate despite being at the core of an Everton side that, as a rule, stray away from holding possession.

It's important to remember that the English centre-half performs in a system that actively promotes counter-attacking football. To put it another way, Branthwaite exists in a realm that minimises ball-playing for someone of his duty, instead tasked with protecting the Everton goal and clearing danger with haste.

Everton rank 19th for possession in the Premier League this term with a 40.1% average (FBref), Tottenham, conversely, are third with a 57.9% retention rate.

It's only natural that Spurs' defenders would be allowed to let their range of passing flourish, and that Branthwaite has been unable, as yet, to demonstrate that side of his game with regularity in a befitting and consistent system.

Given that Branthwaite is already such a redoubtable defensive presence, with statistics that back up his authority at the rear, there's a case to be made that he could eclipse both of Tottenham's star centre-backs under Ange's tutelage, honing new talents and fostering the deep-rooted combativeness that has alerted the best outfits around to his quality.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou is personally driving a move for a "magical" forward this month, according to a report.

Tottenham set to pursue a forward

Tottenham are eager to get a striker through the doors this month, with Postecoglou keen to bring in competition for Dominic Solanke, and they have now had contact over a potential move for Paris Saint-Germain's Randal Kolo Muani.

Juventus attacking midfielder Nicolo Fagioli has also been offered to the Lilywhites, with the Italian's agents trying to find him a new club, but the deal is yet to get the seal of approval from Postecoglou, which is stalling things.

A new winger could also make his way to N17 this winter, and Spurs are said to have made an offer of around €45m (£37m) for Brighton & Hove Albion's Facundo Buonanotte, who is currently out on loan at Leicester City.

It is clear that Postecoglou feels he needs to bring in additional options in attacking areas this month, and it has now been revealed that the Aussie is looking to raid one of his former clubs.

According to a report from The Boot Room, Tottenham are one of a number of clubs considering a move for Celtic forward Nicolas Kuhn this month, having been impressed by his performances so far this season.

The Hoops are hoping to keep hold of Kuhn this January, with several Premier League clubs now circling, including Brentford, Aston Villa and Newcastle United, who are all looking at him closely.

However, the Scottish champions would find it difficult to turn down a big offer, meaning the 24-year-old could be on the move this month if any potential suitor is willing to stump up a considerable fee.

Kuhn flourishing at Celtic Park

The German is said to be attracting the interest of the manager of his national side, and for good reason, having established himself as one of Celtic's most important players so far this season.

The winger, who is also capable of playing up front, has picked up 25 goal contributions in as many games in all competitions this term, with his league goal tally already the highest he's achieved in his professional career.

As such, there are clear signs that the Celtic star is now entering his prime, which could make him an attractive option for Spurs, but Brendan Rodgers will undoubtedly want to keep hold of him, having lauded him for his performance against Manchester City in pre-season.

"The moves for the goals were outstanding to play through City's press and he was away. He finished his two goals really well and and his pass for the third goal was magical. He was very good."

Given Celtic's desire to keep him at Parkhead, it may be difficult to sign Kuhn this January, but he is showing all the signs that he is ready to make the step up to a big Premier League club.

Tottenham Hotspur have now made contact over a move for an "incredibly fast" defender, according to a report.

Tottenham looking to strengthen their defence

Spurs have struggled defensively at times this season, with their frailties at the back particularly on show in the 6-3 home defeat against Liverpool. Shipping goals is to be expected when playing Ange Postecoglou's attacking brand of football, which the manager is unwilling to compromise on, but he may be a little concerned by some of the performances.

As such, Spurs could look to strengthen in the January transfer window, and they have identified a number of defensive targets, with the need to bring in a new centre-back heightened by the injury crisis currently ongoing at N17.

The Lilywhites have held initial talks over a move for Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, while they are also in the mix to sign Rayo Vallecano defender Andrei Ratiu, who is very likely to leave the La Liga club in the January transfer window.

Now, a new report has revealed another name on Postecoglou's list of targets this winter, with The Boot Room confirming that contact has been made with intermediaries to discuss a deal for Borussia Monchengladbach's Ko Itakura.

Spurs are looking to bring in at least one new defender this month, and they have identified Itakura as a possible target, although the potential move is still seemingly in the early stages.

Another option for Tottenham is Abdukodir Khusanov, with talks also being opened about a deal for the Lens defender, so it is clear that Postecoglou is not short on targets this winter as he looks to rectify his side's defensive issues.

Spurs targeting another quick defender

Postecoglou already has one unbelievably quick defender at the club in the form of Micky van de Ven, and he is clearly interested in bringing another one to the club, given that contact has been made over a deal for Itakura.

The Monchengladbach defender was lauded for his pace during his time with FC Groningen, with analyst Hans Kraay Jr saying: "One of the best central defenders in the Eredivisie . He can play football well, he can head well and he is incredibly fast. He is such a good player."

Not only is the Japan international a solid defender, but he is also a threat going forward, ranking in the 91st percentile for non-penalty goals per 90 over the course of the past year, when compared to his positional peers.

Tottenham Hotspur have now opened talks over a move for an "excellent" defender this month, according to a report.

Spurs in need of a defender

Tottenham find themselves in an injury crisis at the moment, particularly in defence, with Cristian Romero, Destiny Udogie, Ben Davies and Micky van de Ven all currently on the treatment table. As such, Spurs have started looking at potential new signings for the January transfer window, holding internal talks over a move for Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite.

Discussions have also taken place over a move for Crystal Palace left-back Tyrick Mitchell, with Ange Postecoglou keen to bolster his backline, which has leaked far too many goals so far this season.

Last month, Lens defender Abdukodir Khusanov emerged as a target for the Lilywhites, and there has now been a promising new update on their pursuit, which indicates that progress has been made in recent days.

According to a report from The Boot Room, Tottenham have now opened talks with Lens over a deal for Khusanov, having identified the defender as a suitable target for the January transfer window.

However, there may be competition for Khusanov's signature from Premier League rivals Newcastle United, who have also commenced talks over a deal, so the Lilywhites may have to move quickly.

Leeds United have also made contact to discuss a deal, but the Uzbekistan international is said to be unconvinced that a move to the Championship would be a good career move. Postecoglou is said to be keen to bring in at least one new defender this month, with the Lens defender, who is valued at around £25m by his current club, now becoming a major target.

Khusanov impressing in Ligue 1

The 20-year-old is ranked as one of Lens' best-performing players in Ligue 1 so far this season, and it is clear to see why so many English teams are in the race for his signature. Journalist Coralie Salle lauded the starlet as "excellent" back in October, while also describing him as fast, powerful and a good receiver of the ball.

One of the youngster's best attributes is his interceptions, ranking in the 99th percentile on that metric per 90 over the past year, when compared to his positional peers, while also placing in the 77th percentile for tackles and the 75th for clearances.

Amid the injury crisis at N17, it is clear that Postecoglou will need to bring in a new defender in January if he is going to get Spurs' season back on track, and Khusanov is showing signs he could be a long-term success at the club.

As such, Tottenham should try to get the move done as quickly as possible, in order to avoid Newcastle getting a deal done first.

This season has been a tough one for the Tottenham Hotspur faithful.

Their team have looked good here and there, and can play anyone off the park on their day, but it would be fair to say the opposite is also true.

Ange Postecoglou's side are arguably the most entertaining team in the country but currently sit down in 11th place, and the most significant reason for that is their dreadful defence, which has seen them conceed a whopping 28 goals.

One of the worst offenders has been backup centre-back Radu Dragusin, who has been relied upon far more than anyone would have expected this season, so it shouldn't be a massive surprise that recent reports have linked the club with an ideal upgrade.

Tottenham Hotspur transfer news

According to a recent report from journalist Graeme Bailey, Tottenham are one of several teams interested in Lens defender Abdukodir Khusanov.

In fact, Bailey has revealed that Spurs and fellow Premier League side Newcastle United have already made contact and 'commenced talks' over a potential move this year.

While the competition from the Toon is far from ideal, the good news is that the 20-year-old is said to be valued at just £25m.

It could be a complicated transfer to get over the line, but given Khusanov's ability and potential, it's one worth pursuing, especially as he'd be an ideal upgrade on Dragusin.

How Khusanov compares to Dragusin

Now, if they were fit, Spurs' starting centre-back pairing would undoubtedly be Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero, as they are some of the most highly thought-of defenders in the league and complement one another quite well.

However, as this season and the last have shown, they are both increasingly injury-prone, which has thrust Dragusin from a backup role into someone who's starting games on a regular basis, and it's him who could be upgraded upon by signing Khusanov.

With that said, how do the pair compare?

Well, when taking a look under the hood at their underlying numbers, it becomes increasingly apparent that the Uzbeck "warrior," as dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson, is the far superior player.

For example, despite being two years younger, the Lens ace comes out ahead in the vast majority of relevant metrics, such as tackles, tackles won, blocks, interceptions, clearances, ball recoveries and aerial duels won, all per 90.

Moreover, his underlying numbers also suggest that he is far more competent than the Romanian international going forward, as he emerges victorious in metrics such as non-penalty expected goals plus assists, progressive passes, shots and shots on target, also per 90.

Finally, the Tashkent-born gem has something else over his potential competition: speed.

The 6 foot 1 titan is the fastest player in Ligue 1, registering a sprint speed of 36.48km/h, which is surprisingly close to Van de Ven's top speed this season of 37.12km/h, which he clocked against Manchester United in October.

Ultimately, Khusanov looks to be an incredibly exciting prospect who is already good enough to replace Dragusin as Spurs' backup centre-back this season.

Therefore, Daniel Levy and Co should do all they can to secure his services this month before someone else beats them to him.