Tottenham Hotspur 'identify Morato as top defensive target in January'

Spurs strengthened their centre of the backline ahead of the 2023-24 campaign, bringing in Micky van de Ven and Ashley Phillips from Wolfsburg and Blackburn Rovers respectively.

While 18-year-old Phillips is seemingly viewed as one for the future, Van de Ven made an immediate impact in North London, striking up a formidable central defensive partnership with Cristian Romero.

In his 10 completed Premier League matches, Van de Ven helped Spurs claim eight victories and two draws in an impressive start to the 2023-24 campaign.

However, on his 11th top-flight appearance, the Dutchman sustained a serious hamstring injury in a game that Spurs went on to lose 4-1 to Chelsea.

Van de Ven's absence coincided with a drop in form, as Tottenham endured a five-game winless run before they got back on track with consecutive victories over Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest.

With Van de Ven's injury exposing a lack of strength-in-depth in the Spurs squad, Ange Postecoglou appears to be on the lookout for reinforcements.

According to The Sun, Spurs are considering a move for Morato after identifying the Brazilian as their top defensive target for the winter window.

The report claims that Tottenham scouts have watched him play four times in the last month and appear to have liked what they have seen.

Morato, who joined Benfica from Sao Paulo in 2019, has made 15 competitive appearances, playing as a centre-back and on the left side of defence.

The 22-year-old played the duration of Tuesday's Champions League win over Benfica, helping his side claim a 3-1 win to seal third spot and a place in the Europa League playoff round.

Although he has a contract until the summer of 2027, Morato's Benfica deal contains a release clause which is set at £68m.

There is a belief that the Portuguese giants could entertain offers below that figure, as they look to raise funds after missing out on the Champions League knockout rounds.

Morato has made a total of 65 competitive appearances during his time with Benfica, chipping in with two goals and one assist.