When Jose Mourinho arrived at Tottenham, many jokingly suggested that the Portuguese tactician would make a move for Nemanja Matic having utilised him to great effect at Chelsea and Manchester United.
What was once a joke now seems like a very possible transfer with reports suggesting that Mourinho is set to make a move for Nemanja Matic in January.
Here’s a look at three reasons why Tottenham should not sign Matic;
Match Fitness
Nemanja Matic is not the first player to lack ample playing time, however, in his recent performance in United’s Europa League victory against AZ Alkamaar his lack of match fitness was evident.
Despite the win, Matic looked lethargic throughout the game – against a tougher opponent, United would’ve been punished multiple times because of Matic’s performance.
Whilst it’s somewhat normal for players to seem out of place after a prolonged period on the sidelines, Matic looked different against AZ Alkamaar.
Matic is sure to put up better displays after a streak of playing time, however, a move for Matic will not be viable for Tottenham considering how long it could potentially take the ex-Chelsea man to reach a decent level of match fitness.
Matic’s Age
In his prime, Matic was one of the best holding midfielders in the world. He played a crucial role in Chelsea’s 2014/15 Premier League campaign serving as a key figure in Chelsea’s midfield set-up.
Being 31 years old now, Matic is well past his prime, and as such, the likelihood of him replicating the performances that earned him multiple entries in the Premier League’s team of the season are extremely slim.
Matic could offer Spurs’ squad some depth, but apart from that, there isn’t much he can bring to Tottenham’s midfield set-up.
The fact that he’s not part of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s plans in a United side that has struggled to find consistency throughout this season, speaks volumes about Matic’s current ability.
Tottenham’s Current Options
Tottenham is currently stacked with a number of central midfielders, with the likes of Tanguy Ndombele, Harry Winks, Eric Dier and even Moussa Sissoko being capable of manning Spurs’ midfield up until the end of the season and beyond.
Considering the fact that Matic, due to his age would ideally be a mere stop-gap option, there is no real need for Tottenham to acquire his services in January because they simply don’t have to.
Even for £15m, a move for Matic, considering the talent Spurs already have within their ranks, would be a waste of resources that could be put to better use in the January transfer window.
