Tottenham and Arsenal go head-to-head for £29 million young talent

Tottenham Hotspur are preparing to make a significant move for Valencia midfielder Javi Guerra, who has caught the attention of both Spurs and their North London rivals, Arsenal.

With a valuation of around €35 million (£29 million), Guerra presents a tantalising opportunity for both clubs, although this fee is described as an “obstacle” for Spurs. However, there is optimism that a “middle ground” can be found in negotiations.

Guerra, an imposing figure at 6'2", has been making waves in La Liga since his debut for Valencia in the 2022/23 season. The 21-year-old enjoyed a breakout campaign last year, featuring in 36 league matches, with 28 starts, and contributing four goals.

His performance has been particularly notable for his tenacity and ability to recover the ball, averaging 4.9 recoveries per game. These attributes make him an appealing target for clubs looking to strengthen their midfield.

Tottenham and Arsenal go head-to-head for £29 million young talent

Tottenham's interest in Guerra aligns with manager Ange Postecoglou's desire to enhance the depth of his squad. The club currently has a midfield trio that includes Archie Gray, Yves Bissouma, and Rodrigo Bentancur, all of whom excel as central midfielders.

However, there is a growing need for a more defensive presence in the heart of the midfield, which Guerra could potentially provide, although one could argue that a traditional 'six' might better suit Spurs' current tactical setup.

Spurs' pursuit of Guerra comes at a time when Arsenal are also monitoring the player's progress closely. Mikel Arteta is keen to revamp his own midfield, believing Guerra's attributes would make him a valuable asset for the Gunners.

Tottenham's track record of giving young players significant playing time could work in their favour. Under Postecoglou, players like Destiny Udogie and Pape Matar Sarr have been integrated into the first team. This commitment to development might persuade Guerra that he could secure a regular spot in the starting XI at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.