Tottenham Step Up Interest in Marcos Senesi as Defensive Overhaul Continues
Tottenham Hotspur are closing in on a deal for Bournemouth centre-back Marcos Senesi following what sources describe as constructive discussions this week. The Argentine defender has emerged as a priority target for Ange Postecoglou as the club seeks to bolster its backline ahead of the new season.
Senesi: A Profile That Fits Postecoglou's System
Senesi, 27, has established himself as a reliable ball-playing defender during his time on the south coast. Since joining Bournemouth in 2022, he has made 68 Premier League appearances, registering three goals and four assists. His left-footed profile offers natural balance to a Tottenham defence that has often lacked a left-sided centre-half.
Postecoglou's system demands centre-backs who are comfortable stepping into midfield and initiating attacks. Senesi averages 5.2 progressive passes per 90 minutes, ranking him among the top 20% of Premier League defenders in that metric. His ability to break lines with accurate long passes could be instrumental in unlocking deep-lying defences.
Robertson Deal Adds Further Defensive Depth
In a separate but equally significant development, Tottenham are reportedly hopeful of securing a deal for left-back Andy Robertson. The Scotland international, who departed Liverpool at the end of his contract, would bring a wealth of experience and a proven winning mentality to north London.
Robertson, 30, made 222 appearances for Liverpool, contributing ten goals and 54 assists. His overlapping runs and crossing ability would offer a potent attacking outlet on the left flank, complementing Postecoglou's preference for full-backs who push high and wide. The prospect of Robertson and Senesi forming a left-sided partnership is an enticing one for Spurs supporters.
If completed, the Robertson move would represent a free transfer, allowing Tottenham to allocate funds elsewhere. The club has been active in the market this summer, with Postecoglou keen to reshape the squad after last season's fifth-place finish.
Tactical Implications and Defensive Solidity
The potential arrivals of Senesi and Robertson address two longstanding weaknesses in Tottenham's defence. Last season, the team conceded 61 goals in the Premier League, the highest among the top eight finishers. Postecoglou's high line and aggressive pressing left the back four exposed on numerous occasions.
Senesi's reading of the game and 1.8 interceptions per match would help mitigate those risks. His partnership with Cristian Romero could form a complementary axis: Romero the aggressive front-foot defender, Senesi the covering, positionally astute foil. Robertson's work rate and recovery pace also align with the demands of Postecoglou's system.
Impact on FPL and Squad Dynamics
From a Fantasy Premier League perspective, both players offer appealing options. Robertson, when fit, has historically been one of the highest-scoring defenders courtesy of his attacking returns. At an expected price of £5.5-6.0 million, he could become a popular pick for the opening fixtures.
Senesi, priced around £4.5 million, represents a budget enabler who offers goal threat from set pieces. He scored twice in 2023-24 and ranks in the top 30% of defenders for aerial duel success rate (68%).
The moves would also signal a clear departure from Spurs' previous transfer strategy under Antonio Conte and Jose Mourinho, which prioritised experienced Premier League campaigners. Postecoglou is building a squad with technical proficiency and athleticism.
What's Next for Tottenham?
With negotiations for Senesi at an advanced stage, an official announcement could come within the next week. The Robertson deal is understood to be dependent on personal terms being finalised, but there is optimism that both transfers will be completed before the start of pre-season.
Should these deals materialise, Tottenham would have addressed key defensive weaknesses while also adding crucial leadership and experience. The next priorities are likely to include a central midfielder and a back-up for Harry Kane's replacement, Dominic Solanke. The summer window is shaping up to be a pivotal one for Postecoglou's project.
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