Despite reports of Tottenham being in discussions over the signing of Pedro Porro, a fresh update has revealed why they are actually cooling their interest.
Porro is one of the main targets Tottenham have been looking at to strengthen the right wing-back position. Antonio Conte has not been able to rely on any of Emerson Royal, Matt Doherty or Djed Spence this season and wants to sign an upgrade.
There is a shortlist to work from, but one name who keeps appearing on their radar is Porro. The Spain international took his chance to impress against them for Sporting CP in the Champions League earlier this season.
Previously on the books of Manchester City without making a first-team appearance, Porro could get his second chance in the Premier League with Tottenham.
Recently, claims emerged that Tottenham had made significant progress in their pursuit of Porro. Confidence has been growing that he could join them in January.
However, the latest update from Sky Sports has dashed any optimism. Now, it is being claimed that Tottenham have cooled their interest in Porro.
The reason is simple: Sporting are only willing to accept a payment of his €45million (£39.8million) release clause. Despite their admiration of Porro, Tottenham do not want to do business on those terms.
Hence, Conte’s concerns about his options at right-back might persist, unless Tottenham can find an alternative target or convince Sporting to adjust their demands.
Pedro Porro would be an upgrade but at what cost?
If Spurs did meet the €45million asking price for Porro, he would become their fourth most expensive signing of all time. Thus, it is clear to see why they might be hesitant about investing so heavily in a full-back.
That said, Porro has been rather impactful since signing for Sporting. During his time with the Portuguese side, he has contributed 11 goals and 19 assists from 93 appearances
His output is better than Emerson’s, for example. But Spurs seemingly have concerns about his value for money.
There have also previously been suggestions that Porro might not have the physicality required to suit a Conte team. That said, the head coach might be worrying about not being able to welcome anyone new for the role he wants to strengthen.
And amid doubts over Conte’s own future at the helm, the situation regarding their pursuit of a new right-back might be even more alarming.
There is plenty of time remaining in the January transfer window for them to address the issue. Still, Porro seemed like an effective solution, so Spurs will have to mull over their options carefully.
Right now, they are back to the drawing board, so it seems.