Latest developments
- Tottenham Hotspur want to sign Omar Alderete from Getafe.
- The centre-back is said to be Ange Postecoglou's personal recommendation.
- Spurs are in the market to upgrade their threadbare defence.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (4/5): Double-checked sources
Tottenham want to sign centre-back Omar Alderete from Getafe in a bid to bolster their defence which has been beset by injuries.
Spanish newspaper AS claimed Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou is an admirer of the Paraguayan, which has been backed-up by sources close to transfer news site, teamtalk.com.
Value (4.5/5): Low release clause benefits Spurs
The 27-year-old is under contract at the South Madrid side until 2028, but a £13 million release clause in that deal is common knowledge.
With funds available to Ange in January, Spurs will be happy to pay such a low price by modern standards.
Suitability (3.5/5): Clear what Ange likes
The Paraguay international is 6ft 2in, imposing in defence but with decent speed for his size – very much what Postecoglou has looked for in defenders before, and qualities that a modern Premier League defender needs.
He has no experience in England, but has featured for Hertha Berlin, Valencia and Basel since arriving in Europe.
Upgrade? (2.5/5): Needs to prove himself
A big fish in a small pond at the moment, it remains to be seen if Alderete can challenge for a starting berth at a club challenging for UEFA Champions League places.
With Cristian Romero, Micky van der Ven and Ben Davies all out injured at the moment, he might get some initial game time, but he could find himself dropping down the pecking order before long.
Logic (3.5/5): In Ange Spurs trust?
For such a decent price, it makes sense for Spurs to at least show interest in a player their manager rates in a position in which they need cover.
Turning 28 later this month, the time might be now for Alderete if he wants to return to playing in UEFA competitions, with only one season of Europa League football five years ago under his belt.
Whisper+ verdict: 18/25
Postecoglou's admiration and a tasty release clause give this rumour plenty of clout. Spurs won't want to wait until late in the window to find defensive cover, making this one to watch!
