Takehiro Tomiyasu’s move to Tottenham could be back on, as discussions over a £17 million move with Bologna could resume.
According to Mike McGrath of the Daily Telegraph, Tottenham could reignite a possible move for Takehiro Tomiyasu in the final days of the transfer window. The Premier League side could resume discussions with Bologna over a £17 million move, which recently hit a snag over payment structures.
Tomiyasu was one of Tottenham’s first defensive targets this summer since Fabio Paratici took over as technical director. Multiple factors prevented a deal from completion as the deal dragged on. Bologna were seemingly ready to accept a £15 million offer from Spurs but later increased their asking price.
Spurs improved their offer to around £17 million and hoped to break the gridlock. However, Tomiyasu’s commitment to the Japanese side at the Olympics further delayed a decision, as Tottenham focused on other targets. During this period, they signed Cristian Romero from Atalanta as their primary defensive target.
Tottenham have been impressed by Tomiyasu’s versatility in defensive positions. The Japanese international can aptly play at centre-back or right-back. He is considered a good talent for his pacey play and awareness at the back. The Premier League club wanted to shore up their backline as a priority.
#Spurs move remains possible for Takehiro Tomiyasu in final days of the window. Talks over £17m deal stalled over structure of payments to #Bologna but is one of the players they will look at
— Mike McGrath (@mcgrathmike) August 26, 2021
While Romero’s arrival helped the club cope with Toby Alderweireld’s departure, Paratici wanted another option, who could also play right-back. Tomiyasu fit the bill perfectly, although the deal had since gone cold. Spurs and Bologna have issues regarding payment structures, which suggested no problems with the fee.
The Premier League side are set to lose Serge Aurier before the transfer window closes. And, Tomiyasu could potentially replace him and challenge Japhet Tanganga for the right-back berth, although Matt Doherty is also in the mix.
In recent seasons, Tottenham’s collapses have been credited to their defensive problems. With no real complaints about their attackers, the backline has faltered more often than necessary, and quality solutions were required to address the issues.
Signing Tomiyaso could improve their defensive quality while also providing a talented player to make the best of the platform offered. The Japanese star, with his current profile and attributes, could certainly shine in the Premier League. Now, there is a chance that they reignite their pursuit of the 22-year-old and snap him up before the transfer window closes in less than a week.