Tottenham Hotspur are still looking to add a new forward to Roberto De Zerbi's squad ahead of the Italian coach's first full season in charge.
This has been arguably the busiest summer in the club's history and six signings have been made thus far for a staggering £237 million. De Zerbi's midfield has been sorted out following the arrivals of Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United for £100 million and Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United for £85 million.
Spurs were interested in Bournemouth striker Junior Kroupi, but the French youngster's pre-season injury means they are reportedly shelving a pursuit until next year. That hasn't ruled out the possibility of a new centre-forward arriving in North London, with question marks over Dominic Solanke and Richarlison.
Mateta Is The Answer For Tottenham
Tottenham could and should turn to Crystal Palace frontman Jean-Philippe Mateta, who has just a year remaining on his contract. The Frenchman has shown throughout his time with the Eagles that he can be relied upon to lead the line effectively.
Mateta has become a hero at Selhurst Park after scoring the winner in the Eagles' UEFA Conference League final win over Rayo Vallecano. He made amends with fans after pushing to leave the club in January before failing a medical with AC Milan ahead of a proposed £35 million switch.
While the 29-year-old is back on good terms with the South Londoners' supporters, there's no indication that he'll be extending his contract. This could pave the way for Spurs to make a move for the experienced forward and potentially allow them to plot a move for Kroupi further down the line.
Stats courtesy of StatMuse - correct as of 10/08/2026
Mateta joined Palace from Bundesliga outfit Mainz in January 2022 and, after a slow start, has become a talisman for the Eagles. He is a popular figure at Selhurst Park due to his bubbly personality, which could be a good fit for this Spurs side.
A Short-Term Fix Well Worth Making
While the prospect of signing a young, exciting talent like Kroupi had been appealing, Spurs need a reliable goalscorer who can come straight into De Zerbi's team and make an impact. Mateta is the ideal solution given his Premier League experience and consistency in front of goal.
Mateta has become one of the most highly-regarded strikers in English football and earned huge praise from Wayne Rooney a year ago. The Manchester United legend was surprised at the lack of interest when speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live:
"He's a handful. He's big, he's strong, he's quick, he's a bit awkward. I'm sure if you ask any defender, he doesn't give them an easy game. He occupies defenders and makes it really difficult for them. He's been one of the best forwards in the Premier League over the last couple of years."
Manchester United were linked with Mateta earlier this summer but haven't made a concrete move for the Palace star. There were suggestions that Steve Parish and his board could sanction a transfer for just £25 million.
If Mateta is available for that price, it would make sense for Spurs to be circling for his signature, as it would not only allow them to strengthen their frontline before planning for Kroupi next year. They can also continue to pursue deals for Liverpool's Cody Gakpo and Manchester City's Savinho.
Tottenham transfer targets
Savinho - Man City star wants to join
Cody Gakpo - Direct talks held for Liverpool man
Endrick - Among several clubs discussing loan
Georges Mikautadze - Villarreal striker under consideration
Spurs kick their season off against Brentford on August 22nd, and while De Zerbi has undoubtedly improved his squad, a new number nine feels the missing piece of the puzzle. Mateta might be a short-term fix, but one that can fire the Lilywhites back to Europe.