Tottenham Hotspur Reach Agreement With Ligue 1 Defensive Ace: A Massive Coup For The Lilywhites? | OneFootball

According to a Croatian news outlet, Sportklub, Tottenham are closing in on Duje Caleta-Car. The Marseille defender has agreed personal terms with the English club, who only need to reach an agreement with the Ligue 1 outfit over the potential exit. Spurs are expected to pay up around €24 million for the services of Caleta-Car, as he looks to become the next big signing for Fabio Paratici.

What Is Duje Caleta-Car All About?

Formerly of RB Salzburg, Duje Caleta-Car arrived at Marseille in 2018 for a fee of €18 million. It was a gamble by Marseille, but one that paid as the defender has since established himself as a key component in the club’s defensive setup, with almost 100 competitive appearances.

A centre-back by trade, Caleta-Car has gained quite a reputation for his robust style of play. Standing at 1.92m, he is known for his commanding presence in the defensive third, being an intimidating figure for any attacker. His imposing physique gives him physical and aerial superiority over his opponents.

However, the Croatian international is much more than just physique. In fact, he is an ideal blend of power and mobility, as the 24-year-old is quite agile and is able to cover a lot of ground. It combines well with the defender’s ability to distribute passes all around the mark, making him one of the most well-rounded defenders in Ligue 1.

With Dejan Lovren and Domagoj Vida nearing the final phase of their respective careers, Caleta-Car is touted as the future of Croatian defence. A move to England, in that regard, should help him gain some much-needed recognition as he seeks to become one of the best in Europe.

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Is He A Good Option For Tottenham?

Duje Caleta-Car is a defender of immense potential and is ready to take the next step in his career. Tottenham, on that note, are an ideal destination for the Croatian international as his power, mobility and technical quality should make him an asset in north London.

The Lilywhites are already in need of defensive reinforcements this summer, with both Toby Alderweireld and Eric Dier facing an uncertain future at the club. Their other options in Davinson Sanchez hasn’t been all too convincing either, thus accentuating the need for an empowered defender like Caleta-Car.

The 24-year-old’s aggression and physique make him a tailor-made fit for the Premier League’s brand of football. He can also offer the leadership at the back for an otherwise inexperienced defensive unit featuring the likes of Japhet Tanganga, Joe Rodon and Sanchez.

A fee of €24 million is also reasonable for a player of his calibre, perhaps even making him a bargain for Tottenham Hotspur, as new head coach Nuno Espirito Santo hopes to turn things around next season.