Tottenham transfer news: Lucas Moura could now be frozen out after major development – pundit
Dejan Kulusevski’s “brilliant” performances could see Lucas Moura frozen out of the Tottenham side, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 21-year-old has made himself “very difficult to drop” in the eyes of Antonio Conte.
Kulusevski registered his third goal contribution in three league starts for Tottenham with an arrowed strike in the 4-0 win over Leeds United on Saturday (26 February).
The Sweden international has supplanted Lucas Moura in Antonio Conte’s starting lineup.
The Brazilian missed the win over Leeds with a dead leg and will remain sidelined as Tottenham take on Middlesbrough in the FA Cup tonight.
When asked if Moura may struggle to return to the starting lineup, Whelan told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “Absolutely, 100 per cent.
“When you’re scoring, creating assists, and playing as well as Kulusevski is – you become very difficult to drop.
“That competition for places is really hotting up for Tottenham, especially in midfield and at wing-back. The manager now has the depth he needs to make changes that will allow them to win games.
“Lucas Moura might well be on the bench for a while – but what a player to turn to if they ever need some inspiration in a tough game.
“Conte has some real options and there’s no doubt that Kulusevski has been a great addition for Tottenham. He’s looking like a brilliant signing.”
Kulusevski joined Tottenham on transfer deadline day on an 18-month loan deal from Juventus.
The north London side have an obligation to buy the 21-year-old if certain conditions are met.
In other news, insider reveals what Daniel Levy and Tottenham chiefs really think about Conte’s “outbursts”.