Tottenham have scouted Benfica’s left-footed Brazilian defender Morato ahead of a potential move in the January transfer window.
Sun Sport has claimed that Tottenham consider Morato one of their top centre-back targets ahead of the January transfer window. The report suggests Spurs could move for the Benfica man and sign him for a price far less than his current £68 million release clause.
Tottenham may have stopped their rut and returned to winning ways after consecutive Premier League wins over Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest. However, the squad still has plenty of missing players and lacks depth in several areas.
One key area is at the back, with the injury to Micky van de Ven exposing the lack of options at Ange Postecoglou’s disposal. The Australian manager has already confirmed Tottenham’s need for a new centre-back, with many names linked with a move.
Postecoglou said, “We need to sign another centre-back though because at the moment we’re on tenterhooks in case something else happens there.”
Ideally, Postecoglou wants someone to play on the left-hand side but versatile enough to cover for Cristian Romero. Hence, the links with Marc Guehi would make sense, but Crystal Palace will not sell the England international unless there’s an exceptional offer.
There are links to Sebastian Caceres, the Uruguayan centre-back who plays for Club America, as other clubs are also keen on him. Benfica’s Morato has reportedly become their priority target ahead of January, with Spurs looking to bring the left-footed Brazilian defender to North London.
The report stresses that Benfica might need to raise significant funds after crashing out of the Champions League. The best available route would see them sell some notable players, with Morato likely to depart.
The left-footed Brazilian defender has had links with Tottenham, but his £68 million release clause may prove problematic. However, the report suggests Spurs could sign him for far less than the exit clause while revealing Benfica’s need to raise cash.
Morato could immediately come and help shore up a problem area for Postecoglou. When van de Ven returns, the Brazilian can compete with the Dutchman for a place. The only issue with left-footed centre-backs are their ability to cover the right side of the pitch. Postecoglou would ideally see the Brazilian as a new player that adds to the depth and a long-term option.
