Tottenham look to Marseille for possible Trippier replacement

In Marseille’s Hiroki Sakai, Tottenham have identified an unheralded dark horse to replace Kieran Trippier, Sky Sports reports. 

While Sakai isn’t the club’s first choice right back, he provides more experience than the others Tottenham have their eye on.

Ryan Sessegnon, who also thrives in a more advanced role, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who enjoyed a breakout season with Crystal Palace, are Tottenham’s preferred options at right back. Both are energetic, spry and have the sands of time on their side. Still a teenager, Sessegnon is only 19 years old, while Wan-Bissaka is two years his elder.

Mauricio Pochettino’s transfer policy usually involves targeting younger talent. It provides the gaffer with the opportunity to contour and mold potential, developing them into world-class players years before they approach their prime.

Who is Hiroki Sakai?

Sakai is an entirely different kettle of fish. The Japan international is, comparatively, an elder statesman. Participating in two World Cups, Sakai, 29, has made 56 appearances for his country. Sakai joined Marseille in 2012 and has thus far made 122 appearances for the French side. In 32 appearances last season, Sakai contributed five assists to Marseille’s cause.

WhoScored, other than one glaring weakness, touts Sakai highly. His steely focus, aerial prowess and ability to calm proceedings with the ball at his feet would benefit Spurs greatly. However, the one knock on the 29-year-old is his mediocre crossing ability.

A strong defensive target, Sakai would offer reliability and consistency in Tottenham’s rearguard. But in the modern game, it’s essential to have a right back who can slalom down the wing, cross effortlessly with whip, pace and precision.

For all his upside, the prospect of Sakai coming to Spurs doesn’t inject the excitement of other transfer prospects. A steady Eddy and consummate professional, the Japanese international won’t compel Spurs supporters to rush out and buy his shirt.

He’s not a showman and doesn’t create fervent anticipation in Tottenham circles, but Sakai is solid defensively and would commit, taking care of the thankless tasks to get the job done. While an admirable professional, Sakai isn’t the type of personality suited for Pochettino’s high energy side.

Spurs need a right back full of pizzazz, somebody who causes havoc for defenders, both by skinning them on the byline and by whipping testing crosses in. Sakai, for all his impressive qualities, doesn’t fit that bill.