Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly eyeing a summer swoop for Juventus utility man Juan Cuadrado, who is facing an uncertain future at the Serie A club.
According to Italian journalist Rudy Galetti, Tottenham Hotspur are keeping tabs on Juan Cuadrado. The 33-year-old Juventus utility man is facing an uncertain future at the Serie A club, with his current deal in Turin expiring at the end of the season. Cuadrado remains keen on extending his contract with Juventus, but he could be forced to leave the club if the two parties fail to reach an agreement.
Tottenham are ready to pounce on the situation, knowing Cuadrado could be available on a free transfer in the summer. It appears the club’s managing director Fabio Paratici is eyeing a reunion with the Colombian international, who was brought to Juventus under his wing.
Formerly of Fiorentina, Cuadrado has been a part of Juventus for over four and a half years now. During his time at the Serie A club, the Colombian, formerly a winger, has transformed himself into a utility player on the right-hand side of the pitch.
Indeed, the 33-year-old has majorly played as a right-back for Juventus. But he has also appeared as a wing-back on multiple occasions while serving as an alternative for the right-sided winger if required. He has racked up 260 competitive appearances, scoring 24 goals while mustering 58 assists.
It appears Cuadrado’s versatility on the right-hand side has impressed Antonio Conte, who has been crying out for a new right-back ever since being appointed as the Tottenham head coach. The Italian is evidently not happy with Emerson Royal, who has been linked with a move to Atletico Madrid and Inter Milan next season.
Matt Doherty is not the most accomplished alternative either, prompting Conte to look into the market for potential replacements. Someone like Cuadrado, to that end, could be an interesting option for Tottenham as the 33-year-old offers vast experience at the highest level of football and can whip in crosses into the box.
The veteran’s game, though, has deteriorated massively in recent years. It has also taken a toll on his fitness, so it won’t be surprising to see Juventus rejecting the opportunity to renew his contract. Tottenham, in that regard, should avoid taking the risk as well and perhaps target a younger alternative with room to improve.