Pochettino in the hunt to bring Sigurdsson back to Tottenham
By Gary Pearson
The Daily Star have broke a story, one focussing on Gylfi Sigurdsson’s potential return to Spurs in the summer, that is probably too good to be true.
The article indicates Maurico Pochettino’s keen interest in bringing the former Spurs star back to North London for a reported fee of £25 million. This story, if credible, would be a massive coup for Tottenham, who sold Sigurdsson to Swansea in 2014.
Sigurdsson almost single-handedly helped Swansea escape the drop. He led the team in every discernible facet and is one of the most creative midfielders and precise set-piece takers in England.
The Icelandic international made 58 appearances from 2012-14 with Spurs and would be welcomed back with open arms. Some will question where the maestro will fit into an already stacked Spurs midfield. Some will say he’s too similar a player to Christian Eriksen.
There’s no questioning the striking similarity of styles between the two Nordic playmakers. They both have a penchant for masterful distribution, love knocking pinpoint crosses into the box and can swerve and dip their free kicks with the best of them.
Regardless of their uncanny similarities, Pochettino would undoubtedly make room for a player of Sigurdsson’s rare quality. Sigurdsson has scored nine goals and is tied for second in the league with 13 assists.
I’m sure you can guess who he’s level on assists with. That would be a certain dashing Dane who pulls the strings in the heart of Spurs midfield. Everton were the frontrunners to win the Sigurdsson sweepstakes, but Pochettino, if the rumours have credence, has thrown a massive spanner in the works.
He would have to tinker with the formation to make room for Sigurdsson and it is unlikely that both creative playmakers would coexist in the same starting midfield. But that’s a good problem to have if you ask me. And it’s a bridge Pochettino will cross if, and only if, he comes to it.
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Sigurdsson, at 27 years old, has at least three or four years left in his prime and would offer a young Tottenham team an experienced presence in midfield. Plus, he can turn a match on its head with one moment of magic and will offer a potent secondary option for a long gruelling year, one that includes Champions League football.
What do you think about the rumours? And how much would you pay to have Sigurdsson return to Spurs? We’d love to hear your thoughts on the potential transfer.