Southampton midfielder Victor Wanyama has requested a transfer away from the Saints, amidst rumours linking him with a move to Tottenham Hotspur.
The powerful enforcer starred for the south-coast club last season, overcoming an underwhelming start to life in England to average 2.9 tackles per match and 1.9 interceptions per match over 32 Premier League outings.
He also demonstrated his prowess in the air, winning an average of 2.2 aerial battles per match.
Wanyama’s fine form at St. Mary’s Stadium has led to interest from other EPL sides, with Sky Sports reporting that Spurs are keen to bring the East African to North London.
Tottenham have offloaded several central midfielders this summer—including Paulinho and Etienne Capoue—and may see Wanyama as an upgrade on England international Ryan Mason. Coach Mauricio Pochettino has worked with the powerhouse before, and indeed was responsible for the 24-year-old moving to Southampton.
The Lilywhites have received a boost in their pursuit of the midfielder, with Sky Sports journalist Michael Bridge reporting that the midfielder has requested a departure from Southampton.
We understand Southampton midfielder Victor Wanyama has asked to leave the club. #SSNHQ
— Michael Bridge (@MichaelBridge_) August 22, 2015
It remains to be seen whether Ronald Koeman will agree to allow the player to leave, particularly having already lost influential midfielder Morgan Schneiderlin to Manchester United earlier this summer.