Asier Illarramendi to Tottenham: Spurs consider making late move for Real Madrid ace - reports
Spurs seeking cover in midfielder after shaky start to new season
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Tottenham Hotspur are mulling over the merits of making an offer for Real Madrid midfielder Asier Illarramendi, according to reports.
The 25-year-old Spaniard is surplus to requirements at the Bernabéu and has been linked with a switch to Liverpool and Arsenal but The Guardian report Spurs are now the most likely to secure his signature.
Southampton’s Victor Wanyama is thought to be another option as Mauricio Pochettino seeks a defensive midfielder to add some metal in the centre of the pitch.
Illarramendi joined Madrid from Real Sociedad in 2013 for £23m and has been linked with a return to his former club but is likely to welcome a move to the Premier League in light of the new TV deal.
Rafael Benítez, the Madrid manager, did not select Illarramendi in his matchday squad for Sunday’s 0-0 draw at Sporting Gijón on the opening weekend of La Liga.
The former Liverpool and Chelsea boss elected to start with Mateo Kovacic, the £30m signing from Internazionale, instead while Casemiro, too, was on the substitutes’ bench ahead of him.
Erik Dier has been playing in midfield for the beginning fixtures of the new Premier League season but, following the 1-1 away draw with Leicester City, Pochettino has been forced to act in the market.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments