Tottenham plot bid for Crystal Palace star, January priority revealed
Tottenham are assessing their striker options ahead of the January transfer window given their lack of goals up top this season.
Thomas Frank is eager to bolster his attacking options with Spurs linked with some of the world’s best goalscorers.
Sources told Football Insider that Tottenham are monitoring the form of Samu Aghehowa, especially given the long-term injury to Dominic Solanke.
Conversely, Everton’s former chief Keith Wyness exclusively told Football Insider that Dusan Vlahovic is leaning towards joining Tottenham with his contract expiring at the end of the season.
With so many options on the Lilywhites’ radar, landing the right striker will be crucial to the club’s success this campaign.
Tottenham may have to wait for Jean-Philippe Mateta who would be a ‘good fit’ for Thomas Frank
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Spurs are closely following the situation of the Frenchman.
Sources told Football Insider that Crystal Palace may be forced to sell Jean-Philippe Mateta if he does not sign a new contract to extend his current deal past June 2027.
The 28-year-old’s reluctance to stay at Selhurst Park could open a prime opportunity for Tottenham to swoop in for his signature with the Eagles forced to cash in.
Speaking on the Inside Track podcast, I explained: “He’s been instrumental in Palace‘s success in the last 18 months with 17 goals last season, 46 appearances, he’s carried that fine form into this season.
“Spurs have been there with a number of strikers in recent weeks and months. It does seem like it’s an area of the team they would like to strengthen.
“Mateta could be a good fit for them and everything, but I don’t see any deal happening in January.
“I think all interested parties in Mateta might have to wait till the summer because I don’t think Palace would let him go in January.
“And if he doesn’t sign a new contract before next summer, then that might increase the possibility of the player moving on and Palace being open to an offer for him.”
Everton to join Tottenham in contest for Ivan Toney
Palace’s likely unwillingness to part with the France international may force Spurs to pivot to an alternative forward target.
Sources told Football Insider that Tottenham are keen to reunite Frank with Ivan Toney in January.
The pair enjoyed great success during their time together at Brentford yet the Lilywhites will face competition for his signature.
Everton are also interested in signing Toney, especially given the shortcomings of both Beto and Thierno Barry so far this season.
If the 29-year-old wants to have any chance of making Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad, then a return to the Premier League offers a superb opportunity.