Andre Villas-Boas to dictate Tottenham’s transfer strategy, roadmap ahead

Andre Villas-Boas has an eye out for new signings

Tottenham have taken the bold step of dismissing established manager Harry Redknapp, despite a fourth-placed finish in 2011-12; Andre Villas-Boas has taken the reigns at White Hart Lane. The Portuguese trainer certainly has something to prove after a botched attempt at revitalising an ageing Chelsea side, and plenty of doubters waiting to see him fail.

Despite this, Spurs chairman Daniel Levy has backed the new coach with money to spend thusfar, with a raft of new faces expected at the north London club before the 2012-13 campaign starts. Here is why AVB’s appointment can aid Spurs in their transfer strategy this summer.

Link to Porto and Joao Moutinho

One of Tottenham’s main challenges in the transfer window this summer will be to replace key playmaker Luka Modric if and when he leaves the club. Many names have been touted as possible signings to fill the creative gap that the Croatian’s departure would leave, however none seem more suitable than Joao Moutinho.

After an impressive Euro 2012 campaign for Portugal Moutinho is in the limelight, and Villas-Boas’ link to Porto could well be integral in bringing the diminutive midfielder to White Hart Lane. The Portuguese champions do not want to sell, but the Spurs boss could well use his relationship with the player to fashion a deal.

European record of success

Regardless of his failings at Stamford Bridge, Villas-Boas’ record of success with Porto is mightily impressive. An unbeaten domestic season and Europa League glory propelled the young trainer into the world’s spotlight, with fans, players and the footballing community taking their hats off in appreciation.

This record of success will stand Spurs in good stead in the transfer market, as the majority of their rumoured targets seem to be currently plying their trade on the continent. Villas-Boas is well-respected in Europe, compared to Harry Redknapp whose reputation is UK based.

The aura of ambition

Although Redknapp certainly wanted to succeed with Tottenham, the side’s capitulation last term was largely down to doubts over his future, with England lurking, and naïve tactics. Villas-Boas gives off the impression of a born winner, with his exploits at the Estadio do Dragao the proof in the pudding.

Players may well be motivated by money and other factors when choosing a new club, but nothing intrigues the modern day professional more than ambition. Villas-Boas will act as a shot in the arm that Tottenham need to be perceived as a club heading in the right direction.

Focus on young players

Villas-Boas is a known advocate of investing in youth, which may not have paid off at Chelsea but could well see Tottenham as a challenger at the top of the game in England for the foreseeable future. The likes of Kyle Walker, Gareth Bale and other younger and energetic players will be the heartbeat of Tottenham’s side next term, and the Portuguese tactician will look to add more exciting prospects to his squad before the campaign starts.

Harry Redknapp was guilty of bringing in older heads that suffered injury and inconsistency, with the likes of Ryan Nelsen, William Gallas and Louis Saha having limited impact. Villas-Boas wants to find a replacement for ageing goalkeeper Brad Friedel, whilst the additions of Jan Vertonghen and Gylfi Sigurdsson at 25 and 22 years old respectively are signings for now and the future.

Attacking ethos

Tottenham, when on form and in the mood, must be accredited as one of the most lethal and exciting attacking sides in England, and Villas-Boas’ appointment will only go to continue this. The new trainer will set his side up to be combative and competitive, but also to attack their opponents and look to entertain the White Hart Lane faithful.

With a new striker (or two) on the wishlist, Villas-Boas will be keen to bring in attacking talent that will help the team continue their offensive outlook.