Tottenham have suffered a major setback in an already difficult season, with midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur set to be out for three months after it was confirmed he will require surgery.
Fabrizio Romano says the Uruguayan is expected to return by the end of the season after a difficult year with a series of injuries, but his absence will force Spurs to take urgent action in the January transfer window.
The news comes at a time when Thomas Frank’s team are already struggling to find consistency. Spurs have endured a disappointing Premier League season, battling poor form, a loss of identity on the pitch and mounting injury problems.
Adding to their frustration, they have recently been eliminated from the FA Cup, increasing the pressure on Frank to turn things around quickly.
Tottenham lack depth in midfield
Bentancur’s absence has left Tottenham’s midfield significantly weaker. The club was already dealing with long-term injuries to two of its most creative and influential players, James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski.
Maddison’s absence has left a void in creativity and link-up play, while Kulusevski’s injury has taken away a key outlet in transition and wide areas.
The situation has now escalated to a full-blown selection crisis, as Bentancur won’t be available until April.
As a result, Spurs will be forced to strengthen their midfield in January.
The club still has about two weeks left to sign a player who can stabilize the center of the pitch, provide defensive structure and provide creativity.
Tottenham’s reinforcements are expected to consider a number of profiles, with both a permanent contract and a short-term loan option in mind.
Spurs will be without a reliable midfielder
Bentancur’s absence is particularly damaging given his importance to the balance of Tottenham’s midfield.
The midfielder has made 28 appearances for Spurs this season, but will now be out for an extended period of time.
Without him, Spurs often lack control in games, struggling to dominate possession or dictate the tempo.
Whether Spurs can find a suitable midfielder by the deadline may ultimately decide how much of the rest of the season they salvage.
Fabrizio Romano admits Tottenham star threatened to leave the club after his playing time expired
