Tottenham Hotspur could be tempted into the market again this winter, as one of their past attacking targets edges closer to a possible January exit amid growing tension at his current club.
Tottenham Hotspur have the numbers in attack, with Richarlison, Randal Kolo Muani, Mathys Tel and Dominic Solanke all available to Thomas Frank at the top end of the pitch.
However, the question remains about quality rather than quantity. Reports suggest that Tottenham are still open to strengthening their forward line, a hint that there may be concerns internally about the current options leading the line.
Tottenham attempted to secure a late forward signing on deadline day and eventually landed Muani, but with the Frenchman now expected to be sidelined for more than two months, speculation has once again intensified around possible reinforcements.
Tottenham monitor Ademola Lookman situation
Ademola Lookman was one of the players Tottenham had been linked with last summer, but they failed to secure the former Fulham man, with Atalanta pushing for a permanent deal while Spurs preferred a loan move.
According to TuttoJuve, Lookman is now seriously considering a January departure from Atalanta. The 28-year-old has reportedly handed in a transfer request on two separate occasions, yet a sale has never materialised.
The Nigerian international, who finished in the top ten of the Ballon d’Or rankings following Atalanta’s Europa League triumph a few seasons ago, has had a few issues with the Italian club.
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More recently, he was involved in a near altercation with Ivan Juric after being substituted against Marseille.
With Lookman said to be eyeing an exit, Tottenham are among the clubs monitoring his situation closely.
However, competition appears to be rising, with Atletico Madrid believed to be moving swiftly to get ahead of Spurs in the race for his signature.
Spurs weighing up Atalanta tension and €60m (£51m) claim
The report further claims that Atletico are preparing a €60m (£51m) offer and have already made initial contact with Lookman’s representatives, hoping to capitalise on the growing tensions between the player and the Serie A side.
That claim, however, could easily also be a tactic from Atalanta aimed at putting pressure on Tottenham and other interested sides.
A €60m (£51m) valuation, particularly at this stage, feels excessive given that Lookman’s contract with Atalanta runs until the summer of 2027.
Tottenham can secure a bargain deal, and it could represent a worthwhile gamble, but they are unlikely to be drawn into any bidding war driven by these Atletico Madrid claims.