Poch swings it with plea to Levy over Sissoko

Tottenham’s first XI is strong and they did good business earlier in the summer, signing midfielder Victor Wanyama from Southampton and Holland forward Vincent Janssen from AZ Alkmaar.

But with Tottenham returning to the Champions League, Pochettino believed they needed something extra. He spoke admiringly after the 1-1 draw with Liverpool of Sadio Mane, whose pace had flustered Tottenham.

In delivering Sissoko, Levy has given his manager what he wanted — and departed from a transfer policy that appeared set in stone. There have been exceptions but during his 15 years as Tottenham chairman, Levy has preferred to buy players under 25, whose value will increase.

Sissoko’s age — he turned 27 two weeks ago — caused Levy to think twice, especially given the asking price. Yet Levy, often heavily criticised, has a fiendishly difficult task.

He has to finance the construction of a new stadium, which Spurs hope to occupy from summer 2018. The estimated cost is £400m although City sources believe that figure could reach £650m.

Paying for it would be easier if Spurs qualify regularly for the Champions League. The best chance of playing in that tournament every season is to continue to buy established players on high wages. But what happens if that backfires?

You are left with a high wage bill and players in their mid- to late-twenties whose value is falling. Hardly the ideal circumstances in which to keep a club in good financial health — as Tottenham have always been under Levy. That is why Levy deserves credit for making an exception and signing Sissoko.