RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 1 sourcesSouza is expected to stay with Tottenham this season, De Zerbi is backing him to be a game-changer
Tottenham Hotspur defender Joao Victor de Souza Menezes was attracting interest in the transfer market as he seeks more playing time.
However, according to Eduardo Burgos , the 20-year-old is poised to remain at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for the season.
Spurs received three offers for the youngster from FC Porto – two official bids and a loan offer. Benfica were also reportedly interested.
It appears that Spurs boss Roberto De Zerbi is backing him to be a game-changer for the North London club.
Souza joined from Brazil in January but struggled for game time with Destiny Udogie and Djed Spence ahead of him in the pecking order.
It was also a perilous time to throw in the youngster as the club battled to stave off relegation.
This summer would have been perfect for him to leave for European experience as Tottenham signed Andy Robertson, further bolstering the full-back position.
Keeping Souza makes no sense for Tottenham
For all his potential, keeping Souza around for another season could do more harm than good to his development.
Lauded as ‘ forward-thinking and technically very good ‘ by former Spurs manager Thomas Frank, Souza has a bright future.
But the teenager needs regular competitive football, not another year spent watching Udogie, Spence and now Robertson battle for minutes ahead of him.
That is why Tottenham should reconsider their stance and allow him to go to Portugal on loan.
The Portuguese giants have already shown serious interest, making them an ideal destination for Souza to test himself at a higher level while playing regularly.
There is little value in keeping a prospect at the club if De Zerbi cannot guarantee him meaningful minutes.
A season in Portugal could give Souza the experience, confidence and tactical education he needs before returning to North London ready to compete for a first-team place.
Spurs should let him go, earn his stripes and come back stronger.
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