Two players ‘decreased’ Tottenham’s possibility of signing Weston McKennie | OneFootball

Rodrigo Bentancur and Pape Matar Sarr played a role in Tottenham not signing Weston McKennie

Tottenham Hotspur midfielders Rodrigo Bentancur and Pape Matar Sarr impressed just enough to prevent the club from signing Juventus star Weston McKennie.

This is according to the Athletic (Subscription Required), who state that McKennie’s potential arrival would have probably depended on a midfielder leaving. As it turned out, no central midfielder left.

Moreover, Bentancur returned from the injury that he suffered at the 2022 FIFA World Cup with Uruguay. That, and Sarr’s performances last month ‘decreased’ Spurs’ chances of signing the USMNT star.

Tottenham Hotspur target Weston McKennie joined Leeds United on loan in January. (Photo by MARCO BERTORELLO/AFP via Getty Images)

It would have been a good addition to the team. McKennie is a decent player who can add a lot of depth in central midfield as well as at right midfield.

No worries

But Pedro Porro’s arrival meant we weren’t all that desperate for more players down that flank while Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Bentancur continue to be our first-choice midfield pairing.

With Skipp, Yves Bissouma, and Sarr also competing for places, McKennie would have had a real battle on his hands for playing time. The 24-year-old ended up moving to Leeds United instead.

That is perhaps going to be better for his development and his prospects of getting regular gametime. Moreover, Spurs would be wise to first clear out the clutter in midfield before adding players.

We can’t forget that Giovani Lo Celso, Tanguy Ndombele, and Harry Winks are currently out on loan. If the trio returns for the next season, then Spurs could have a huge roster to deal with on their hands.

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It’s better to be patient and sign a world-class midfielder later on. Right now, our focus should be central defence.