Mourinho sets sights on Liverpool target to replace ‘shambolic’ Spurs star

Jeremias Gonzalez, Sven Botman

Jose Mourinho is looking at a summer swoop to sign Lille defender Sven Botman as a replacement for a struggling Tottenham star, according to a report.

Mourinho and his players have come under fire this season after slipping down the table. Defeat to West Ham last time out left them saw fall nine points adrift of their London rivals in fourth.

Indeed, reports have stated that Mourinho is fighting to save his job, with a Bundesliga boss wanted as his replacement.

That said, Mourinho continues to plan ahead for their summer recruitment. As such, the Spurs boss has been advised to ditch two problematic stars to help his side climb the table.

With question marks being asked of Davinson Sanchez, Mourinho seems intent on finding a new centre-half this summer.

According to France Football, Tottenham are now hoping to sign 21-year-old Botman to improve their defence.

The Lille centre-back has become one of the brightest prospects in Ligue 1 since joining from Ajax in July.

He’s made 32 appearances already this term and looks set to become a future star in the mould of Matthijs De Ligt.

Tottenham v Burnley Match Preview, February 28, 2021

Tottenham v Burnley Match Preview, February 28, 2021

A look ahead to the Premier League game between Tottenham and Burnley, including stats on form, possession, shots, cards, corners, top scorers and previous meetings.

Standing at 6ft 4in, Botman is a towering defender who is also a threat from set pieces.

Liverpool scouts have also been taking a close look at the Dutchman. While they opted for two alternatives in January, they could yet rekindle that interest.


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O’Hara calls out Sanchez

Tottenham’s defensive issues are clear for all to see. They have suffered chastening losses to Manchester City and the Hammers recently. The game against City saw Colombian Sanchez embarrassed by Ilkay Gundogan for their third.

Davinson Sanchez Everton v Tottenham

Speaking after Sunday’s loss to West Ham, pundit Jamie O’Hara lamented: “It’s getting embarrassing. I look at the team and the back-four is just an absolute shambles. I don’t know why Jose keeps playing Sanchez and Dier because it’s probably one of the worst partnerships in the Premier League.

“The only player you’d say deserves to play in that back-four is [Sergio] Reguilon.”

The signing of Botman could be just the start for Spurs. They are also reportedly eyeing a new £30m-rated goalkeeper to succeed Hugo Lloris.