After a disappointing season in front of goal, it has become clear that Spurs must sign a forward this summer. Their lack of goals last season cost them a place in the Champions League and should they wish to keep hold of talents such as Modric, Bale and Van Der Vaart, it is vital that they improve up top. I, along with many others was astonished that they failed to sign a striker last January, despite rumours of some big money bids being placed on deadline day. I am certain that the Spurs board will not make the same mistake this time around, the only question is, who should they go for?
Samuel Eto’o
Rumour has it the Cameroon International is looking to move and has reportedly been quoted saying he’s open to a Premier League switch. At 30 years of age, he may be not fit Tottenhams usual transfer criteria however, under Harry Redknapp, Spurs have signed a number of older, more experienced players with proven ability and one thing Eto’o does have in abundance, is ability. He scored over 100 goals during his time at Barcelona and helped Inter Milan to their famous ‘Quintuple’ in 2010. His style of play fits the bill perfectly for Spurs, with lightning speed, deadly finishing and constant movement. However, his high wages could prove to be a stumbling block in the move, as could be his desire for Champions League football.
Should it happen? 5/5
Will it happen? 1/5
Radamel Falcao
After an astonishing season in which he scored 38 goals in 42 appearances, there are a number of high profile European sides interested in the Colombian forward. Tottenham and Arsenal appeared to be leading the race for his signature, however after Porto manager, Andre Villas-Boas left the Portuguese champions earlier this week to join Spurs’ London rivals Chelsea; it seems Falcao could be headed to the blue side of London. Despite only standing at 5’9”, Falcao is phenomenal in the air and would surely thrive off of the crosses provided by Bale and Lennon. With a buy out clause £26million, which is considered cheap for a 25 year old forward in todays market, he must surely be on Tottenham’s radar.
Should it happen? 5/5
Will it happen? 2/5
Lukas Podolski
Recently, Tottenham legend Steffen Freund urged Daniel Levy to consider making a move for world cup star Lukas Podolski. The German international striker, who is still only young at 26, is vastly experienced in club, European and International football could be a viable fix to Spurs’ striking problems. Traditionally, players from the German league tend to do well in England, with Michael Ballack and Owen Hargreaves (when he is fit) being prime examples of this.
Podolski would come relatively cheaply at a price between £10-15 million and has all the assets required to adapt to English football. His pace, strength, great dribbling and thunderous left-foot indicate he would be suited to Tottenhams style of play and I believe this would be a great piece of business by Spurs, should a deal come to fruition.
Should it happen? 3/5
Will it happen? 2/5
Leandro Damiao
The young Brazilian has been strongly linked with Spurs over the past few weeks and reports suggest it is likely a deal could take place. After having an initial bid of £10 million rejected by Damiao’s club, Internacional, Spurs have apparently returned with an improved offer and both the club and the media await a decision from the Brazilian side, with whom Tottenham have a partnership.
Strong in the air and with the ball at his feet, Damiao resembles a classic ‘No.9’ striker, with a touch of Brazilian skill. He would take time to adapt to the Premier League, as did his ex-Internacional team mate Sandro, but the midfielder’s progress and continued praise of Damiao to Levy and the board will surely influence their decision. At only 21 and with the potential to become a world class striker, he is surely worth the, relatively low risk.
Should it happen? 4/5
Will it happen? 5/5
Fernando Llorente
The big Spaniard has been linked with Spurs for a while now and many believe their upcoming summer friendly with his club, Athletic Bilbao could be more than just a pre-season warm up.
Llorente is perfectly suited to the lone striking role he would fulfill should he move to N17 and his height and heading ability, combined with his strength indicate he would thrive off of the balls provided by Tottenham’s wingers. He would however command a sizeable transfer fee, although it could prove to be worth it, should he arrive in England, firing on all cylinders.
Should it happen? 4/5
Will it happen? 3/5
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As silly season approaches, Our Lilleywhites are linked with all, including the inferm and deceased.
if they have kicked a ball, we will sign them.
the reality is, the olympic stadium dream has cost in the region of 10 million, shattered and never to happen, the team of 2011 2012 will suffer.
Many to depart and several to arrive. We all have our wishes, Harry has a budget. Here’s hoping.
Goalkeeper, centre back,full back,2 midfielders, and several attackers required……
watch this space..
Linked with everyone as usual. I’d like PAV to stay Defoe and Crouchy to wander off and the arrival off Damiao and Podoiski. Freshen the place up I think.
Heres hoping we get Damiao and Podolski.I believe the young German would be well suited to the Premier league.And personally I would rather go for the younger Brazilain than Eto.Plus his wages are bloody ridiculous.As good as he is.He is typical of the mercernary player in todays market.