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Despite losing the UEFA Champions League final to Liverpool, it was a memorable season for Tottenham Hotspur. One of the biggest highlights of their season was the unveiling of their new stadium - the second largest stadium in the country.
Spurs managed to secure the Champions League spot for next season as well, and ended up as the runner’s up of the Champions League 2018/19 - all of this with no additions to the squad since January 2018.
One of the players who has been crucial to their performances in the last couple of years is Christian Eriksen. The midfielder joined the London side in 2013 and since then, has been their creative source in the midfield.
However, it seems to be the end of the road for him at the White Hart Lane. As per reports, the Dane wants to make a move away from London. In such a scenario, finding a replacement for the creative midfielder will be a top priority for Mauricio Pochettino in order to continue the rise of the club.
We look at three players that the Argentine boss can consider as a replacement for Eriksen.
#1 Giovani Lo Celso
Giovani Lo Celso was one of the many youngsters to gain a lot of attention this season. Unlike many players who get demotivated and lose form after an exit from a top club, Lo Celso showcased strong mentality and proved his worth during the 2018/19 campaign in La Liga.
The Argentine was seen as a surplus by Thomas Tuchel and moved to Real Betis from PSG last summer on a loan deal, which turned into a permanent transfer after youngster’s impressive performances for the Spanish club. The 23-year old’s move to Spain has been a blessing for both the player and the club.
Lo Celso can be a player to fill the void in midfield for Tottenham, which could eventually be left by Eriksen’s potential departure. The midfielder was in magnificent form in his first season at the Benito Villamarín as he contributed to 21 goals, scoring 16 and creating 5. His creativity, goal-scoring abilities, and passing range have been crucial to Real Betis’ campaign this season. The Argentine will get enough playing time at the White Hart Lane and can definitely thrive under Mauricio Pochettino’s expansive style of football.
With many top European clubs after the youngster, Spurs might have to pay a decent price for Lo Celso.
#2 Isco
Mauricio Pochettino has openly shown his admiration for Isco in the past and his desire to bring the Spanish International to White Hart Lane. It may not have happened in the past due to various reasons, but now is an ideal scenario for the midfielder to move to London.
The Real Madrid star has had a roller coaster ride under Zidane’s managerial reign and has often struggled to make it into the playing 11. With the midfielder entering the prime years of his career, regular playing time will be crucial for him - which is something the French manager may be unable to guarantee.
Whereas Tottenham, who are on the rise and are improving season after season under the Pochettino’s guidance, will benefit immensely with a player of Isco’s caliber and quality.
The Spaniard did not have a memorable season during La Liga 18/19. The 27-year-old contributed to just 7 goals last season - a number that does not do justice to the immense talent that the midfielder possesses. His creative prowess, amazing skill set and brilliant technical abilities in the middle of the park could make him a major acquisition for the North London side.
Furthermore, a purchase of such a high-caliber player will send across a strong statement of intent from the Champions League finalists and take the club in the right direction.
#3 Nabil Fekir
Nabil Fekir has been linked with a move to the Premier League for the last couple of seasons. It seems now is the perfect time for Spurs to make a strong move and acquire the French International to White Hart Lane.
The Lyon midfielder is not a like-for-like replacement for Eriksen but will prove to be an crucial addition to the London side, nonetheless. He may not bring in the same level of creativity as the Dane but with his pace, quick feet and knack for scoring goals, he will be a greater threat going forward. He has proved his worth with Lyon time and again and this season has been no different.
The Lyon captain racked up 12 goals and 9 assists this season as the French club finished 3rd in the Ligue 1. Additionally, the biggest advantage for Tottenham is that the midfielder is in the last year of his contract and will likely be available for a bargain price.
