Juan Foyth likes Spurs, should Leeds pursue Cameron Carter-Vickers instead?

Since Marcelo Bielsa signed on for Leeds, many an Argentinian footballer have been linked with a move to Leeds, on loan or permanent. One of those is Juan Foyth, Tottenham Hotspur’s young CB. As it’s been reported, a loan move would make sense for both parties. Leeds need CBs (although with Bielsa at the helm, Leeds could need a brand new starting 11 for all we know). Pochettino credits Bielsa as a role model, and Spurs have a couple young CB’s who could use experience away from the club.

Foyth came to Europe last season from Estudiantes, turning down Paris Saint-Germain to sign with Spurs. He never saw Premier League Football however, as his only action came in cup ties. Despite not playing, he’s held in high regard by Pochettino, who believes he can develop into one of the best defenders across Europe.

So it should be no surprise that Leeds faithful want this move to happen.

But not so fast. Foyth spoke to Argentine newspaper El Dia, with Sportwitness.co.uk translating the quotes. Foyth talked all things football, from making the transition from Argentina to England, his training regiment, how he likes North London so far, etc.

“The truth is that I’m very happy and comfortable to be playing in England and, particularly, with Tottenham.” -Juan Foyth

Couple that quote with Toby Alderweirald’s expected departure from the club, Foyth may seeing more minutes come next season.

Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images

But Leeds shouldn’t give up on their connection to Spurs.

Cameron Carter-Vickers is another center back who needs experience, plays under Pochettino, and has been linked with a loan to Leeds. Unlike Foyth, CCV may not be in Spurs immediate plans behind Davinson Sanchez, Jan Vertonghen, and Foyth. Carter-Vickers impressed during his time on loan last season at two different clubs, first at Sheffield United followed by a spell at Ipswich Town to finish out the second half of the season. In an interview with Green’Un, Carter-Vickers said he’s open to going out on loan for first team football, but that decision rests in the hands of Mauricio Pochettino.

“I want to play football so if the opportunity comes and the manager at Tottenham says he doesn’t need me and the opportunity to play football again in the Championship comes up then I will be up for it,” -Cameron Carter-Vickers

Cameron Carter-Vickers has a lot of traits that Marcelo Bielsa can definitely take advantage of. He’s built like a tank; during USMNT training camp in November ‘16 many vets were in awe about his body structure when he was 18. He can thank his parents for his athletic genes, being the son for former NBA basketball player Howard Carter and star netball player Geraldine Vickers. He’s mega-physical, but another thing Bielsa would like about him is his comfort on the ball. He isn’t afraid to pass the ball, something Bielsa values along his back line. Of course, he still needs developing in certain areas, and who better tutor Pochettino’s young CB then the guy who influenced his style of football.

Should Mauricio Pochettino decide that Juan Foyth could use a year on loan, Leeds should definitely shoot for him. However, I do not think that will happen and he’ll have more shots to make his Premier League debut. Cameron Carter-Vickers, on the other hand, looks likely to gain experience at another club on loan. If so, time at Elland Road under Bielsa could do wonders for his development, and Pochettino should wisely use his connection with El Loco to make the move happen.