Latest link to Brighton midfielder too risky a proposition for Tottenham

A link between Brighton’s Yves Bissouma and Tottenham is surfacing, but the risk associated with the Malian international will ensure this rumour soon fizzles out. 

The source of the rumour is Fabrice Hawkins, a comparatively unknown journalist. But the rumour is begging to be explored further, which Cartilage Free Captain did so adeptly. 

Bissouma is an incredible talent. He has revolutionized Brighton’s midfield. Playing as the deepest central midfield in Graham Potter’s preferred 3-4-3, Bissouma protects the rearguard with aplomb while tirelessly covering expansive ground. He is inarguably the Seagulls’ indefatigable engine room and deserves the plaudits he so often receives.

With those plaudits comes attention from elite clubs, including Arsenal (the word elite used loosely in the Gunners’ case), Liverpool, Manchester United, all of whom have had their eye on the 25-year-old for some time now. And for good reason. He’s a stud and would elevate, even with the addition of Rodrigo Bentancur, the already-high level of Tottenham’s central midfield contingent.

Aston Villa, although not yet an elite club, is also showing their interest in the dynamic midfielder.

But here’s the rub. And it’s a sandpaper on skin sort of rub.

Bissouma was arrested on suspicion of sexual assault back in October after a night out in Sussex. While he hasn’t been convicted of anything, Bissouma hasn’t yet been cleared of any wrongdoing.

And therein lies the irrefutably decisive issue for Tottenham, or any other team for that matter, that cannot be overlooked. Until his name is cleared, Tottenham should not take the intrinsic risk.

He would cost €45 million, an eye-popping price tag even for players who aren’t embroiled in such controversy. Make no mistake, Bissouma, based purely on talent alone, is worth every penny of the asking price.

But until his name is cleared or a conclusion is reached regarding the allegations currently enveloping him, Tottenham should not pursue him. He is still under investigation, but if his personal situation improves in the coming weeks and months, Tottenham can confidently re-enter the fold.

Until then, Tottenham should happily forge forward with Pierre, Harry, Oliver and now, Rodrigo.