According to a report from German magazine Kicker, Paris-Saint Germain right-back Thomas Meunier looks set to join Borussia Dortmund on a free transfer with the finalisation of his move looking imminent – dealing a blow to Spurs’ hopes of landing the Belgian as a potential Serge Aurier alternative.
Meunier, who has started 14 games for PSG this season, won’t be penning a contract extension and looks likely to leave for Dortmund – even with manager Jose Mourinho reportedly enquiring over the 28-year-old as a would-be bargain addition.
Is this a blow to Spurs and Jose Mourinho?
Yes, would have been a cheap and brilliant option
No, nothing special anyway
As per the Athletic, Spurs have had to borrow £175 million through the Bank of England to combat losses that have resulted from the recent pandemic, with the club now forced to only consider free agents, loan deals and potential money-saving buys.
The Belgium international was allegedly a contender for Spurs’ transfer plans given his status as a soon-to-be free agent who has proven experience at the top level – evident by his 17 outings in the Champions League since putting pen-to-paper with the Ligue 1 giants.
As well as this, according to WhoScored, Meunier crosses as many balls into the box as current Lilywhites full-back Aurier – marking him out as a credible and cheap potential back up.
However, as per Kicker, Dortmund appear to have won the race for Meunier – ruling out a target who could have offered more options in the full-back area.
Indeed, while the 6ft 2 colossus moves on the Bundesliga, Spurs now look like they need to ponder other alternatives as Jose Mourinho’s first full season in charge looms.