Sebastien Bassong’s days at the Lane look numbered with Tottenham Hotspur acutely aware that they must move a centre-back on before recruiting another. Redknapp, the balloon-faced wheeler and dealer, has recently ramped up his interest in Aston Villa stopper James Collins and is determined to strengthen defensively this January come what may.
Bassong was a revelation at Newcastle but has struggled to maintain such high standards since his summer switch down south in 2009. Indeed the French-born Cameroon international has only made one Premier League appearance so far this season.
He is by far and away the most likely fall guy should Redknapp be successful in his pursuit of Collins (for a fee believed to be in the region of £5m) particularly due to very real interest from various clubs in his native France. Leading the chase is Olympique de Marseille who are looking to spend in this transfer window to boost their flailing Champion’s League aspirations. Top of their priorities is a striker to cover for the Ayew brother’s departure to the Africa Cup of Nations though coach Didier Deschamps is also actively seeking to bolster his back-line. The versatile Bassong fits the bill especially due to his availability and price.
Spurs are hoping for a similar fee they feel will tempt Villa to relinquish Collins.
