After seeing the squad evolve from a top-half contender to a UEFA Champions League finisher, Antonio Conte has worked miracles. He has taken many players who looked finished at Spurs and gave them a whole new lease of life. However, while many have benefitted from the coaching of the Italian, not every player has thrived under his tenure so far. Some have not played enough to get into the team – and amongst that list would be Joe Rodon.
The defender signed under Jose Mourinho, and was seen as a young international defender who could be molded further. He had shown impressive form in his career before coming to North London. However, it would be fair to say that things have not exactly worked out for Rodon at Spurs. He has barely played, and when he has it has not often been to the benefit of himself or the team. As such, reports of a replacement being signed and Rodon being moved on are not exactly a surprise.
Many assumed he might return to the Championship, but reports suggest that Nottingham Forest are keen to do a deal for the player. The former Swansea City man is being headhunted by ex-Swansea boss Neil Cooper. Cooper, who is gaining major plaudits for his promotion season with Forest, is keen to be reunited with a player whom he already knows very well.
For Spurs, losing Rodon would not be an issue. The defender has fallen out of favour almost entirely with Conte, and was likely to be moved on this summer anyway. If he can net a return to player under Cooper, where he made his name before coming to Spurs in the first place, then it would be all the better for both player and club.
Loan or permanent sale for Rodon?
The only thing that is not clear is whether or not Forest are keen to land Rodon on a full-time deal or a loan. While Spurs are likely to be keen to sell to raise funds, a loan would make sense for two reasons. One, it would allow Spurs to keep a potential asset. Without having really been given a chance to play in the Premier League, Spurs need to see what Rodon can do with a run of games.
If he goes to Forest and plays well, he could return to the club and play a part in the future seasons. If he goes on loan, too, it also allows Rodon to rebuild his value. Spurs would probably struggle to get their money back at this moment in time. By going to Forest and playing even to a decent standard, though, Spurs could make it more likely that they do not have to sell a once-promising prospect at a loss.
For now, though, it appears almost certain that Rodon will be moving on from the club this summer. Despite his best efforts, it simply has not really worked out for the Welshman at the club – so far, anyway.
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