This season has been challenging for Tottenham Hotspur. Ange Postecoglou’s team is currently positioned in the lower half of the Premier League table, has been eliminated from domestic cup competitions, and is trailing in their Europa League match against AZ Alkmaar.
However, the upcoming summer transfer window offers an opportunity for Daniel Levy and the club to continue rebuilding the squad.
One player Tottenham might target again is Crystal Palace’s highly-rated Marc Guehi. While Guehi would strengthen the team, Tottenham already possesses a central defender who is even more valuable.
Why Tottenham Aimed to Sign Guehi
Last transfer deadline day, Tottenham reportedly made a £70m bid for Guehi. Crystal Palace rejected the offer due to insufficient time to find a replacement.
The £70m price tag might have been excessive, but Guehi is undoubtedly a talented player who could benefit Tottenham with his experience.
Despite being only 24, Guehi has played 205 first-team games, including 144 for Palace, 59 for Swansea City, and 2 for Chelsea. He has also earned 22 caps for England, played in the European Championships, and captains Crystal Palace.
Guehi’s performance metrics are also impressive. Statistically, he ranks high among centre-backs in Europe’s top leagues for blocking passes and through balls, and is also notable for goal contributions for a defender.
Considering his abilities and contract situation, Guehi’s estimated value is around €53.8m (£45m). However, Tottenham already has a defender worth significantly more.
The Spurs Player Valued Higher Than Guehi
Despite injury setbacks, several Tottenham defenders could be considered among the Premier League’s best.
This is particularly true for Cristian Romero, whose estimated value is around €79.8m (£67m), £22m more than Guehi.
Romero’s high valuation is justified by his performances over the past few years. Dubbed a ‘monster’ by journalist Charlie Eccleshare, the defender has played 112 times for Tottenham, scoring seven goals and providing one assist.
| Romero’s Spurs career | |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 112 |
| Goals | 7 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Yellow Cards | 29 |
| Second Yellows | 3 |
| Red Cards | 1 |
Romero has also earned 40 caps for Argentina, winning the Copa América and the World Cup. Lionel Messi has even hailed him as ‘the best defender in the world’.
While occasionally prone to rash decisions, Romero is a top-tier defender. If Tottenham signs Guehi, the latter would need to perform exceptionally to reach Romero’s current valuation.
Vihaan Mehrotra