Tottenham Hotspur Are Leading The Race For This Gifted Defender: Good Option For Ange? | OneFootball

In a recent report, Record mentioned that Tottenham Hotspur are leading the race for Benfica defender Morato. It has been stated that Spurs are eager to seal a move for the Brazilian central defender in the summer.

Morato’s Impressive Form In Portuguese Football

Morato has enjoyed a solid season at the Portuguese club as he has put in a handful of impressive displays at the centre of their defence. The Brazilian talent has made 27 appearances for Benfica during this campaign, picking up a couple of assists across various competitions.

The 22-year-old has given a good account of himself when defending at the back and has done well to average 2.7 tackles, 0.9 interceptions and 1.7 clearances per game in Liga Portugal. He has even been accurate when distributing possession from inside his half after making 81.7% of his attempted passes in the Portuguese top tier (stats via whoscored).

His current deal at the Portuguese club will expire in the summer of 2027. Therefore, Spurs would have to make a big offer if they want to convince Benfica to part ways with their prized asset later this year.

Benfica’s Brazilian defender Morato looks on during a training session at the Benfica Campus training ground in Seixal, outskirts of Lisbon on October 24, 2022, on the eve of their UEFA Champions League 1st round, group H football match between SL Benfica and Juventus FC. (Photo by PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA/AFP via Getty Images)

Is Morato A Good Option For Tottenham Hotspur Boss Angelos Postecoglu?

Morato is a tough-tackling defender who can time his challenges well to make a few timely interceptions for his team inside his half. He doesn’t hesitate to put his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the offensive and can use his robust 1.92m frame to dominate the opposition attackers in the air.

The Brazilian sensation is primarily a central defender but can also play as a left-back if asked to do so. He would inject more quality and depth into Tottenham head coach Angelos Postecoglu’s defence.

Morato has what it takes to fight for a regular starting spot at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the coming seasons. Hence, he would be a decent option for Spurs to pursue in the long run. However, the Brazilian might struggle to cope with the high intensity of English football. Thus, Postecoglu would have to be patient with Morato’s progress before he can unlock the best out of the player at the North London club.