Report: Tottenham eye 16-goal striker, competition from three PL rivals
By Derek Smithson
Tottenham are interested in signing Sassuolo forward Gregoire Defrel, according to a report.
Italian outlet Tutto Mercato Web claim that Spurs are eyeing the 26-year-old from the Italian league, but face competition from their Premier League rivals for his signature.
It is understood that Southampton, Leicester and West Ham are also keen on the Frenchman.
Defrel was an important player last season in Serie A and helped Sassuolo to a 12th-placed finish in the league.
The striker was an ever-present in the side and made 38 appearances across all competitions, including playing five times in the Europa League.
He managed 16 goals and five assists in return, which made him one of Sassualo’s most valuable players.
Spurs currently have Harry Kane and Vincent Janssen as genuine options in the central striker position, but Mauricio Pochettino is looking at bolstering his frontline this summer.
Football Insider verdict:
Spurs need to bring in more attacking options in the summer if they are to win silverware next season. Janssen struggled during his first season in English football and was unable to provide a strong enough back-up for teammate Kane. Defrel proved last season that he can be prolific in front of goal and his 16-goal tally is a strong return for Italian mid-table side Sassuolo. However, Spurs may be better served going for someone with experience in English football to avoid the same mistake as they did with Janssen. Defrel, 26, also enjoyed his best ever season last year and there is no guarantee he could repeat his goalscoring exploits.
In other Tottenham transfer news, they have submitted a five-year contract for an attacker.
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