Tottenham’s priority in the January transfer window is likely to be defensive reinforcements — and Benfica centre-back Morato could be a shrewd acquisition.

Ange Postecoglou’s side lost summer signing Micky van de Ven to a significant hamstring injury last month and have been left short of options at the back.

Ben Davies has deputised well in recent weeks but Spurs have ambitions of challenging at the very top of the Premier League, so will need to enter the market.

Ahead of tonight's clash with Brighton, we look at what Morato could bring to North London.

Benfica emergence

Tottenham’s recruitment in the summer was impressive, with Van de Ven, Pedro Porro, Guglielmo Vicario and James Maddison immediately becoming key players.

Most were purposely signed to fit into Postecoglou's system and that will not change for any January additions.

Morato certainly ticks plenty of boxes for a team looking to build for the future.

At 22, he has the potential to improve significantly and has already demonstrated his quality for Portuguese champions Benfica.

An increasingly influential player for Roger Schmidt's team, the Brazilian has caught the eye in 2023.

He has made eight league appearances this season and a further five in the Champions League, helping his side to four clean sheets.

Morato's impressive performances have led to interest from other clubs, with Fulham reportedly making a bid last summer.

Perfect fit

Tottenham will hope their status as top-four contenders will put them in pole position to sign Morato.

The former Sao Paulo youngster is believed to have a £68million release clause in his contract at Benfica — but Spurs will hope to negotiate a cheaper price.

Even if they are forced to spend big, Morato could still represent good value for money.

As a left-footer, he would be ideal competition for Van de Ven and could take on the absent Dutchman's role alongside Cristian Romero.

He is also physical and combative enough to cope with the rigours of England's top flight, standing at 6ft 4in.

But perhaps most importantly, the Sao Paulo native has the technical skills required to operate in Postecoglou's rearguard.

He is adept at passing out from the back and is also among the most productive defenders in Portugal for progressive carries (1.45 per 90) and tackles (2.9 per 90) in 2023.

Post-Christmas present

All the signs suggest Morato would be a quality addition to Tottenham’s squad.

He fits the bill as a technically accomplished, coachable young player with room to develop.

And he would bolster a team in need of increased depth as they look to navigate the winter with several key players sidelined by absences.

Postecoglou will have one eye on the transfer window even as he prepares for tonight's clash with Brighton.