Journalist Alasdair Gold claimed that Tottenham Hotspur wing-back Matt Doherty may have a future at the club due to his versatility.
What’s the word?
It's no secret that Antonio Conte has been on the hunt for a new option on the right side of his defence for the entirety of the January transfer window.
Indeed, Sporting Lisbon's Pedro Porro has been on top of the list and while that deal looked to be close, it now might not quite get completed before the month comes to an end.
Regardless of whether or not a new wingback arrives this winter or not, it doesn't bode well long term for the likes of Doherty or Emerson Royal. However, Gold has claimed that the Irishman may have more of a chance at staying with the club as he can play on the left flank, too.
Indeed, in an article for football.london, Gold explained: "Right wing-back is the other overloaded area of the squad and both Emerson Royal and Matt Doherty are considered non-locally trained in the Champions League squad.
"If Porro does arrive as expected then offers will be looked at for both players, although Doherty brings left-sided cover as well which Conte appreciates."
Best option?
As per David Ornstein, a move for Porro is now off with Sporting reneging on terms. However, the 23-year-is said to be "left distraught" after the collapsed move and so perhaps he will be able to force his way to north London yet.
Doherty has started just seven league games for Spurs, while Emerson has been asked to play more in the English top-flight this term with 13 starts under his belt.
While this suggests that the Brazilian is marginally viewed as the better option, it doesn't change the fact that Conte really doesn't trust either of the options at right wing-back. So, even if a deal for Porro doesn't happen this winter, a new player will surely arrive in the summer.
However, as Gold points out, Doherty is able to play on the left and this versatility may make him the better option to keep around as squad depth when Spurs do finally upgrade their defensive options.