‘Best target’ – Tottenham is in battle with Arsenal and Chelsea for £55m-rated striker,Tottenham hijacking the player will be a good one
Tottenham Hotspur find themselves in a precarious position as they approach the January transfer window, desperately needing reinforcements to address their ongoing injury crisis and lack of squad depth. Currently sitting 15th in the Premier League table, Spurs are enduring a miserable run of form, having failed to win in their last six league games. Their most recent setback—a 3-2 loss to Everton—has left them just eight points above the relegation zone, far from the European ambitions they started the season with.
Forward Crisis Amplifies Postecoglou’s Woes
One of Tottenham’s biggest concerns is their lack of attacking options following the injury to Dominic Solanke, who had been pivotal in leading the line. With Solanke sidelined until at least mid-February due to a knee injury, Ange Postecoglou now faces a major headache, as Richarlison remains the only fully fit striker in the squad.
The injury to Solanke occurred under unusual circumstances. Speaking earlier in January, Postecoglou explained, “It wasn’t like it was even a challenge. It was just him trying to shoot and twisting his knee. It’s just one of those things, unfortunately. We’re hoping that it is not too serious, but it will certainly keep him out for a few weeks.” The absence of Solanke has left a gaping hole in Tottenham’s attack, increasing the urgency for reinforcements in the January transfer window.
Dusan Vlahovic: A High-Profile Solution?
Recent reports suggest that Tottenham could turn their attention to Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, a player who has also been linked with Spurs’ North London rivals Arsenal. According to Italian outlet La Stampa, Juventus are open to letting the Serbian striker leave, potentially on a loan deal until the end of the season, or through a permanent transfer. Vlahovic’s availability comes as a result of his reduced role in the Juventus setup, and the Serie A giants are reportedly keen to offload him to a top European club.
Vlahovic has been productive despite his limited opportunities, scoring 12 goals and providing two assists in 25 appearances for Juventus this season. However, Tottenham may face stiff competition for his signature, with Chelsea also reportedly interested in the 23-year-old striker. Chelsea are looking to strengthen their attacking depth behind Nicolas Jackson, who has already netted 10 goals this season.
Should Arsenal and Chelsea enter the race, Tottenham’s current league position could pose a significant obstacle. With both clubs higher in the table and offering more immediate prospects of European football, Vlahovic might prefer their offers over Spurs’. However, Postecoglou and his team remain hopeful they can convince the Serbian to join their rebuild.
Liam Delap: A Premier League Alternative
If a deal for Vlahovic proves unattainable, Tottenham have reportedly identified Ipswich Town forward Liam Delap as a potential alternative. The 21-year-old has been a revelation for Kieran McKenna’s side, scoring eight goals in 21 Premier League appearances this season. His contributions have been vital in helping Ipswich fight to avoid relegation in their first top-flight campaign since promotion.
Delap’s performances have caught the attention of several Premier League clubs, including Chelsea and Manchester City. Although City were initially linked with a £30 million buy-back option for their former academy star, they have since distanced themselves from a move. Meanwhile, Ipswich are said to value Delap at around £40 million, a fee Tottenham could afford, but only if they believe he’s worth the price tag.
The Bigger Picture
Spurs’ interest in both Vlahovic and Delap underscores the club’s desperation to bolster their forward line. However, the January window poses challenges beyond financial considerations. Convincing players to join a team languishing in 15th place with limited prospects for European competition is no easy task. Additionally, Tottenham’s struggles extend beyond the attack; injuries have exposed weaknesses throughout the squad, leaving Postecoglou with a monumental task of steadying the ship.
The Spurs manager has emphasized the importance of squad depth in weathering the rigors of the Premier League. Yet, without adequate reinforcements, Postecoglou risks being unable to halt Tottenham’s alarming slide down the table. For chairman Daniel Levy, the January window represents a crucial opportunity to back the manager and provide him with the tools to salvage what remains of the season.
Will Spurs Act in Time?
As the January window progresses, the clock is ticking for Tottenham to finalize their transfer business. Whether they opt for the proven quality of Vlahovic or the raw potential of Delap, the need for immediate solutions is undeniable. The club must act decisively, not only to strengthen their attacking options but also to instill confidence in a fan base increasingly concerned about the team’s direction.
While Spurs’ predicament is far from ideal, the January window offers a glimmer of hope. For Postecoglou, new signings could be the lifeline he needs to turn the season around and push Tottenham away from the relegation zone. Whether they can seize the opportunity remains to be seen.
