Stop the rumours: Dani Alves is not coming to Tottenham

There is more chance that Tottenham will sign both Gareth Bale and Isco from Real Madrid in the next 24 hours than of Dani Alves joining the club. 

While it’s true that Dani Alves is leaving PSG, let’s quash any links he has with Tottenham. Daniel Levy is as reluctant to lessen his stranglehold on Spurs’ wage structure as a blind man is to driving.

There is absolutely no chance he’d consider paying Alves, who is 36 years old, about £240 000 per week, even on a free transfer. Some people also believe Manchester City might be interested in signing the legendary Brazilian for a short stint at the Etihad.

Those rumours make more sense, albeit marginally. City definitely have the cash to blow, but spending £240 000 per week on a player who is bound to be a bit part, fringe contributor makes little sense. They are in a healthy enough spot not to have to rely on an aging right back with a bum knee.

But City has more money than sense, so it’s a scenario that has more chance of coming to fruition.

Back to the club that matters, though.

Alves simply doesn’t fit into Mauricio Pochettino’s plans. The gaffer would rather start Kyle Walker-Peters than instantly promote a 36-year-old to one of Spurs’ top earners. There’s no questioning Alves’ pedigree and legendary status as one of the world’s top right backs in the last decade, but the Brazilian has already enjoyed his day in the sun.

Sure, Alves would immediately improve Tottenham in the short run, providing pedigree, experience, poise and a winning mentality, but there is no long-term upside in signing the weathered elder statesman, especially when you consider his astronomical weekly earnings.

While curious Spurs supporters will naturally consider many reputable transfer rumours during silly season, this is not one.

Alves is better off finishing his career with a side more interested in appearances, a public relations exercise or brand boost, who will offer an illustrious short-term contract.

Let the legendary Brazilian ride off into the sunset while Spurs get back to reality and the dogged struggle they’re more accustomed to.