Tottenham Hotspur Considering Swoop For Former Defender

Tottenham Hotspur are considering a move for Southampton defender Kyle Walker-Peters, four years after selling him, according to a report from talkSPORT

Spurs are reportedly ready to strengthen their defence by bringing back Saints defender Walker-Peters, who has flourished this season under Russell Martin, making the EFL Championship Team of the Year. But the attacking-minded full-back is understood to be out of contract next season, and Southampton may have to sell him if they are not promoted.

How has Walker-Peters performed this season?

The twice-capped England international has shown his experience and reliability this season, playing the most minutes for Southampton this season (3860), helping the Saints reach the play-offs. His performances this season have led to high praise, being included in Simeone Gholam and David Prutton’s SkySports Championship Team of the Season and the EFL Championships Team of the Year. Walker-Peters has shown his talents this season, acting as a constant threat on the ball, having the second-highest carries into the final third and box whilst also having one of the best shot-creating actions. His offensive efforts helped Southampton score the third most goals in the Championship. 

Why do Spurs want to bring Walker-Peters back?

One reason Spurs may want the full-back is that they could bring him in for a reduced price; the 27-year-old is out of contract next season, meaning the Saints may cash in on him if they are not promoted to avoid losing one of their star players on a free. Walker-Peters is currently valued on Transfermarkt at £17 million, and if Spurs can get a reduced price on this value, they could have a real bargain on their hands and have the opportunity to spend more elsewhere. 

Another possible reason Tottenham could want Walker-Peters is because he fits manager Ange Postecoglu’s system. Walker-Peters likes to attack, often marauding down the wing to get involved and creating chances by carrying the ball forward; this style of play is similar to how Postecoglu has his full-backs. The Saints defender can also play on both sides, adding much-needed versatility at the back with Tottenham struggling with squad depth in those positions. Left-back Destiny Udogie is currently injured and will face a lengthy spell out; his replacements in recent weeks have not been convincing, though, losing three on the bounce and conceding nine goals. Tottenham may need additional depth all over the pitch, and bringing in Walker-Peters will be able to provide the required cover on both flanks.

Should Tottenham Hotspur sign Walker-Peters?

If Southampton fail to get promoted it will be interesting to see where Walker-Peters ends up, more clubs may move in for the full-back due to his cheap price, and maybe even a club promoted to the Premier League to help strengthen their squad. I believe Spurs should move in for the full-back, he may not be the most exciting signing of the window but he would help towards homegrown player registration, come in at a cheap price and help strengthen the squad in two positions and that could let Spurs put more focus in other areas. KWP also suits the manager’s style and with good performances, he could be a crucial rotation player, especially with Tottenham likely getting European football next season. For KWP to go back to North London, he might need some assurances on playing time as he is at an important stage in his career, going into what is usually a player’s prime, becoming a bench player with minimal minutes could be wasting what could be the peak of his career. But this could be a very good move by Spurs, and one that may go under the radar if it happens.