Just yesterday I claimed that Tottenham needed to strengthen if they were going to challenge in Europe and domestically this season. While I thought a big name signing was unlikely I have been proved wrong in spectacular circumstances as Harry Redknapp made a sensational swoop for Dutch playmaker Rafael van der Vaart.
At a reported £8 million the deal is an unbelievable scoop for Tottenham and hopefully could give the squad a real boost when they return from international duty.
Van der Vaart is exactly what Tottenham need. He was almost a little unfortunate not to succeed in Madrid and probably suffered from a change in management shortly after arriving. His ability though was never doubted, but in a team of galacticos he was always going to struggle to hold down a first team place.
But at Tottenham you can’t see this been a problem. I expect him to be used as the advanced midfielder allowing for Luka Modric to compete with the ever improving Gareth Bale for a spot on Tottenham left flank.
If anything I expect it to be in Europe where Van der Vaart has the most impact. Redknapp will be well aware that most teams will play five across the midfield, and he really needed an extra man to be used in the middle of park.
Van der Vaart fits the bill perfectly and will slot in to a 4-5-1 system comfortably. His experience of playing in Holland, Germany and Spain could prove absolutely priceless to Spurs as they look to cause a stir at Europe’s top table.
Redknapp has proved me wrong with the capture of Van der Vaart, and once again shown that there are bargains to be had by acting late in the transfer market. Now I want him to back up my claims that the Dutch midfielder can help take the club to the next level.
