Tottenham are being linked with a winger who has been impressing in France.
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Tottenham are now said to be eyeing an alternative attacker after reportedly dropping out of the race to sign AFC Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo. Spurs are expected to invest in their attack this summer, with Thomas Frank in need of another dangerous player amid some disappointing displays at the top end of the pitch.
Dominic Solanke has not managed to stay fit, while Randal Kolo Muani and Brennan Johnson have struggled to show consistent good form. Frank has come under some pressure of late, and the weekend’s defeat to Liverpool won’t have helped, but there is a feeling that this Tottenham squad lacks a danger man who can scare opponents.
It was reportedly hoped that Semenyo could become that player, with the Cherries star currently the third leading scorer in the Premier League. But Fabrizio Romano has reported that Spurs have dropped out of the race, with other clubs more likely to pull off the signing.
Tottenham could now pivot elsewhere, and according to TeamTalk, Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche is now a target for January. The 23-year-old winger has provided three goals and five assists across all competitions this season and he is already valued at 45million euros by Transfermarkt.
Manchester City have also been linked with the winger, and that could be a win-win for Tottenham, who could end up with Akliouche themselves, or if City sign him, it could open the door to the North London side signing Savinho.
Manager admits Aliouche could leave
In the meantime, Monaco boss Sébastien Pocognoli has said he cannot guarantee the winger stays at Monaco in January. He said: "I count on everyone during the second half of the season. But Maghnes is free to make his decision. Decisions concerning his future are his own."
He added; "Did I ask the management to close the door? No. I am happy with my squad and will work with what I have when the window closes. I always adapt. I have done that since I arrived."
Spurs would have to pay a premium to land the winger, given his age and the fact Monaco have him tied down until 2028, while the reported interest of other clubs certainly won’t help. There will also be questions about signing a winger who hasn’t been particularly productive in the way of goal contributions, and his age and lack of Premier League experience makes the signing a gamble.
Spurs could arguably do with a ready-made and proven attacker at this stage, and Frank may well demand one given he may not have the time to wait around for a young player to find his feet in the Premier League.