Julian Nagelsmann could make Bayern Munich defender Matthijs de Ligt his first transfer as Tottenham boss if he is appointed manager at the end of this season. This would represent an ambitious raid of his former club, after the 35-year-old parted company with the German giants last week, as de Ligt is rated one of the finest centre-backs in Europe.
Nagelsmann was swiftly replaced by ex-Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel in the Bayern hot seat, just a matter of days before Daniel Levy officially pulled the trigger to relieve Antonio Conte of his duties last Sunday. Now, Sky Germany have reported that Tottenham have 'made contact' with the German head coach.
Speaking about Nagelsmann's dismissal, de Ligt admitted to his surprise at the Bayern hierarchy's decision. "No (I didn't see it coming), I was surprised," he said.
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"We are second in the league, in the quarter-finals of the German cup and in the quarter-finals of the Champions League. There's still everything to play for.
"The people in charge decide who the coach is, but it was a difficult decision to swallow. But I also think that Tuchel is a coach who can help us well."
The Netherlands international joined the Bundesliga champions in a deal worth £68million last summer following a three-year stint at Juventus, where he made 117 appearances and won both Serie A and the Coppa Italia. He appeared to have established a close relationship with his former boss, as he strongly denied suggestions of a rift in the dressing room.
"Ah, the German media; that says enough," de Ligt added. "I had a good relationship with the coach and his staff, so it was difficult.
"I've been in touch with him, sent him a message, thanking him for everything he taught me. He really wanted me at the club and has been important to me. Also thanks to him, I have taken important steps in my development in recent months."
It's worth bearing in mind that as much as Nagelsmann may want to bring him to north London if he takes up the position as Tottenham manager, this would be an extremely difficult transfer for Levy and Co. to pull off. The 23-year-old will have only finished the first of five contracted years in Germany, and any club keen on prizing him away would have to cough up a significant transfer fee.
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