Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly eyeing a move for a midfielder who has outperformed James Maddison this season.
It looks set to be a busy summer for Tottenham as they bid to build on an encouraging debut season under Ange Postecoglou.
The Aussie boss could yet deliver a top-four finish should Spurs win their final two games, while also relying on Aston Villa to lose at Crystal Palace.
Nevertheless, Spurs’ summer plans are unlikely to change with or without Champions League football.
It’s already been reported that Tottenham are set to back Postecoglou with three key signings this summer – a centre-back, midfielder and striker.
Now, according to Football Transfers, Spurs have identified a player who could provide competition for James Maddison.
Tottenham eyeing move for Alex Baena
The outlet claims that Spurs are eyeing a possible summer swoop for Villarreal midfielder Alex Baena.
It’s claimed that Baena’s versatility makes him a plausible option for Tottenham, with the midfielder also able to play on either flank.
With Maddison enduring a difficult second half of the season in north London, Postecoglou has lacked an alternative option to the Englishman.
Baena and Maddison’s stats compared
Maddison enjoyed a dazzling start to life at Tottenham following his summer switch from Leicester City. The 27-year-old netted three goals and provided five assists in his first 11 Premier League games for the club.
An ankle injury picked up in November derailed Maddison’s excellent start at Tottenham and he’s managed just four goal involvements in 15 appearances since his return in January.
Baena, on the other hand, has enjoyed a consistent campaign with Villarreal. The midfielder has provided 17 assists in all competitions while also netting five times.
At 22, the Spaniard looks set to have a bright future ahead of him and his versatility would be a huge plus for Postecoglou.
Baena is comfortable playing off either flank and would also provide excellent competition for Maddison in midfield.
Just two weeks ago, the Spain international registered a hat-trick of assists in a 3-0 win over Rayo Vallecano while playing off the left-hand side.