Yves Bissouma verges on Tottenham switch: How will he fit in Conte’s XI?

Tottenham Hotspur are closing in on another new signing in Yves Bissouma as Antonio Conte’s master plan continues to take shape.

Antonio Conte made his need for investment well-known last season and higher-ups in North London appear to have taken note.

Tottenham are nearing their third signing of the summer transfer window as the Times report an agreement is in place for Brighton midfielder Yves Bissouma.

After securing both Ivan Perisic and Fraser Forster on free transfers, Daniel Levy appears set to get his chequebook out for the first time this summer with a fee of £25m to exchange hands for Bissouma’s services.

The Mali international has been central to Brighton’s rise in the four years since his move from Ligue 1 outfit Lille, helping them to a ninth-place finish last season – their previous best in the Premier League was 15th.

An agreement has been agreed upon between the two clubs and Bissouma, with the 25-year-old offered a 5-year contract.

Does Yves Bissouma fit Conte’s system?

During his respective tenures managing Inter Milan and Chelsea, Antonio Conte deployed a now renowned 3-4-3/3-5-2 formation and his short time at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has been no different.

In midfield, the Italian’s system features a double-pivot which requires a defensive-minded midfielder alongside a partner that is able to piece together the defence and attack.

Under Conte, these roles were filled by Pierre-Emile Højbjerg and January signing Rodrigo Bentancur, with the two providing the base for their side’s push for Champions League qualification.

Bissouma fits both roles but is more suited to protecting the back four before using his passing range in conjunction with an ability to run with the ball to trigger attacks.

Under Graham Potter, Brighton focus the majority of their forward play centrally and through the lines of their opponent’s midfield. In comparison, Tottenham often look to Harry Kane’s feet when advancing up the pitch which should be another factor that helps Bissouma adapt seamlessly.

Central midfield along with wing-back were positions identified as needing reinforcements and Tottenham are due to strengthen the latter with the signing of Djed Spence.

Reports emerged last week that they were advancing in talks for the Middlesborough player who spent last season on loan with promotion-securing Nottingham Forest.

Richarlison has also been linked to the club while centre-back remains an area that Tottenham will no doubt look to strengthen.