OPINION
Tottenham must target Ajax striker Kasper Dolberg this summer as a back-up option to talisman Harry Kane.
Spanish outlet Don Balon claims that La Liga champions Real Madrid are considering a move for the 19-year-old if they cannot complete deals for summer targets Paulo Dybala, Ousmane Dembele and Kylian Mbappe.
Spurs should seriously contemplate a move for the teenager before Madrid decide to act on their reported interest and pursue him.
The youngster enjoyed a sensational breakthrough campaign with Ajax last season, contributing with 23 goals and eight assists in all competitions.
The striker’s performances helped the Dutch side reach their first major European final since 1996 but they were eventually beaten by Premier League side Manchester United in Stockholm.
It has not been the best of starts to the new season for Dolberg and Ajax as they were dumped out of the Champions League in the qualifying rounds and they suffered defeat in their first league match of the season against Heracles.
Without the prospect of competing in Europe’s elite club competition this season, the teenager might be tempted to move to North London with Spurs on course to play Champions League football for the second consecutive season.
As quoted on the Sky Sports website, Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino claimed that they missed out on the chance to sign Alvaro Morata this summer as he feared that he would play second fiddle to Kane this season and of course, this could prove to be a stumbling block for Dolberg.
However, the Dane still has a long career ahead of him whereas Morata probably felt that it was necessary to become an immediate starter with the World Cup in Russia just around the corner.
It could be easier for Pochettino to persuade the teenager who could improve as a goalscorer working with Kane on a regular basis and potentially become a hero at the club in helping them clinch the Premier League title for the first time in their history.
Spurs have yet to make a summer signing but they impressed against Newcastle in the opening day of the league campaign but there is still the risk that the team will suffer should Kane find himself out of action due to injury or suspension.
As a second-choice striker, Dolberg is the perfect candidate as there is every chance that he would be more willing to bide his time and develop as a footballer under the guidance of Pochettino, who has a great reputation with young players.
The Dane’s currently has five years remaining on his contract with Ajax but a substantial bid could potentially turn the club’s head and allow them to open talks with the teenager ahead of a great summer move.