Speak to anyone involved with Tottenham, and they will tell you of the clubs admiration for Portuguese football. Spurs have a long history of buying players from the Portuguese top-flight, especially from the major two of FC Porto and SL Benfica. However, Eric Dier alone is proof that value can be found elsewhere, particularly at present champions Sporting CP. According to reports in Portugal, then, Spurs will be back in the country this summer to try and land Matheus Nunes.
The 23-year-old has blossomed into one of the premium players in the league, playing an absolutely massive role in Sporting’s ability to compete in Europe and at home. The player has evolved even further this year, establishing himself as a key player within the plans of Ruben Amorim. Amorim has made clear that Nunes is regarded as one of his crown jewels, but a big bid from England could see the player sold.
Nunes has been among the most exciting midfielders in Portugal this year. He takes players on with confidence, he can shoot from distance, and he can win fouls in key positions. Given how important Antonio Conte seems to rate set pieces, that would mean that Nunes would likely find a home in a revamped Tottenham midfield.
One thing to note about Nunes, too, is that he seems to be an excellent player for attacking platers directly. When you look at the Spurs team, the central midfield area of the team can feel light on goals. Conte has long operated with midfielders who can make runs into the box, which would make a move for Nunes make a lot of sense.
Though by no means prolific himself, the chances he creates with his movement and his passing make him an excellent prospect.
Spurs keen to get age of squad down
Though Conte himself is always keen to buy the finished article, he has always been good with developing talent. Many of the players at Juventus, Chelsea, and Inter can point to Conte playing a key role in their progress. Players such as Nicolo Barella can safely say that Conte helped elevate performances to the level of one of the best central midfielders in Europe. Up front, Romelu Lukaku evolved from a Manchester United flop to a hero at the San Siro.
Nunes, with a contract until 2026, fits the age profile that Spurs want to try and sign in the coming years. As they look to revamp the squad and change the age of the team, Nunes would fit in to the ideal section. He is both young enough to improve, but old enough to contribute from the moment that he arrives. With a fee of around £50m expected to be the starting point for negotiations, Spurs are hoping they can get a fee closer to £40m to seal the deal.
Either way, it sounds like Spurs will be back in Portugal this summer – for signings as much as for the sun.
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