Tottenham fans in for a shock on the final day of last season, when a 5-1 defeat at the hands of Newcastle not only completed a four-match winless run that ended their title challenge but also saw them finish below their North London rivals Arsenal. However, Pochettino will look back on the past year as a period when his team progressed leaps and bounds in their performance. Players like Kane, Dele Alli and Lamela were excellent all through the season. While Kane finished with the Golden Boot trophy, Alli became the best young player in the league.
Coming to this summer transfer window, Pochettino desperately searching for a quality striker who could provide cover for Harry Kane and that search ended with the purchase of Vincent Janssen. The Argentine also brought in Southampton midfielder Victor Wanyama. No doubt that these are two very quality additions to the squad, however with Champions League football next season, Pochettino will be wise to bring in a few more players in the coming weeks. With four different competitions to take part in, matches will come thick and fast for Pochettino’s men.
In recent weeks Tottenham have been linked with Inter Milan midfielder Marcelo Brozovic. The Croatian midfielder is also being pursued by Liverpool, hence Pochettino must act quickly if he is to get his men. Brozovic was on loan from Dinamo Zagreb for the past 18 months before Inter agreed to a permanent deal for the Croatian this June, the deal was in the region of £7m million. During his time at Inter, Brozovic made a total of 51 appearances in which he scored 8 goals and provided 6 assists. Although his number don’t seem to been very exciting, there is no doubting his value lies in his energy and worth ethics in the centre of the field.
Last season Dembele played in support of Eric Dier. The Belgian would try and take the ball forward, while Dier stayed put screening the back four. If Brozovic did move to North London this year, he would a perfect cover for Dembele, operating in a similar sort of role. He has excellent control and the ability to pick out his teammates with pinpoint passes upfront. Brozovic is still 23 years old, therefore there is every chance that with consistent performances, he will be able to break into the starting XI sooner rather than later.
The fact that Inter won’t be able to offer Champions League football to Brozovic next season could go in favour of Tottenham. The Croatian is also a set piece specialist, something that will come in very handy when up against stubborn defenses. His quality going forward and defensive solidity at the back is perfect for the high-pressing philosophy followed at the White Hart Lane.