Tottenham are planning a move for Stuttgart’s left-sided defender Hiroki Ito, who has a €30 million release clause in his contract.
According to Sport Bild, Hiroki Ito emerged as a big target for Tottenham ahead of the summer. Ange Postecoglou is looking for a specific defensive player who excels on the left-hand side of the backline. The Japanese international has a €30 million release clause in his Stuttgart contract and is coming at the back of a fantastic season.
Tottenham chasing Hiroki Ito?
Tottenham have seen links to some defenders recently and could have added Stuttgart star Hiroki Ito to their list. Ange Postecoglou is explicitly looking for a versatile left-sided defender, and the Japanese international might fit their requirements perfectly.
In the 29 games he played for Stuttgart last season, 15 were as a centre-back and 14 as a left-back, which showcased his adaptability in those roles. He can be a significant asset for Spurs in the current window, as he also has a €30 million release clause attached to his contract, something the German club will demand in full.
There’s a chance Spurs could pay those in instalments, but Stuttgart is unlikely to lower their asking price for the 25-year-old defender. Hiroki Ito has represented Japan 25 times, and Ange Postecoglou knows much about the Japanese market having worked there as a football manager.
Spurs are explicitly looking for a left-sided defender
Spurs have allowed Ryan Sessegnon and Ivan Perisic to leave the club, while there are considerable doubts about Emerson Royal, Sergio Reguilon and Ben Davies. It’s the role that Davies played under Postecoglou and over the years is what Spurs are looking to replace. While they have Destiny Udogie and Micky van de Ven covering the left-sided positions, the pair lack sufficient cover.
Hiroki Ito could be a player who can provide that, although he might not have been their first-choice option in the market. Spurs were earlier chasing Riccardo Calafiori, although the Bologna defender might stay in Italy and follow manager Thiago Motta into joining Juventus during this window.
Hence, Hiroki Ito could be seen as Postecoglou’s next best option in the position. With Spurs returning to European football next season, the added games will mount more pressure on his otherwise thin squad, as the Australian will need reinforcements in multiple areas, starting with the left side of his backline.
