According to reports from Portugal, Tottenham Hotspur have identified Brazilian defender Morato as a target for the January transfer window, with the Benfica player part of a five-man shortlist.
Tottenham’s defensive issues were well-documented last season, with the Lilywhites conceding 63 goals, more than all but five teams in the division (three of which were relegated).
The signing of Micky van de Ven this summer appeared to have fixed that issue for Ange Postecoglou, with the Dutchman forming a perfect partnership with Cristian Romero almost instantly.
The problem is, Van de Ven is now out injured until the New Year and Romero is suspended for the next two games. These absences have highlighted just how shallow the squad depth is at Spurs, and reinforces the need for a new centre-half in January.
All signs point to that position being a priority for Spurs in the upcoming transfer window, and a number of names have been linked to the North London club.
Now, the latest name to add to that list of targets is Benfica’s Morato, at least according to Portuguese outlet Record.
It’s said Morato is one of five players Postecoglou is considering to provide extra cover at centre-half. Apparently, he is a player who is “highly rated” by Tottenham, who have been “following him for some time.”
Funnily enough, Spurs sent scouts to watch Morato in the recent Lisbon derby, but he was playing left back that day.
Benfica are believed to be keen to keep hold of the 22-year-old, and are expected to stand firm in the January transfer window. His current contract contains a €100m (£86.8m) release clause.
Spurs Web Opinion
I really like the look of Morato – he’s a combative, physical defender who’s young enough to develop even further. Sadly, his price tag will be huge, and we’re far more likely to go for a cheaper option in January.
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