OPINION
While Tottenham might have been willing to splash the cash on some new stars over the last couple of seasons, they have also been busy developing some of the best homegrown talent in England.
It is the sign of a well run club when big money captures such as Davinson Sanchez and Lucas Moura are training and playing alongside academy graduates Harry Kane, Harry Winks and Kyle Walker-Peters, and there will certainly be a sense of pride from the Spurs faithful over the squad that has been built up – especially when they look at how few of the Manchester City side came through their youth system.
There is always a special affinity held towards players who have grown up with the club and there is little more fans enjoy more than seeing a youngster flourish into a senior star – which is why there will be major concerns over the future of Reo Griffiths.
The 17-year-old striker, who is versatile enough to play on the wings, has been in outstanding form for Tottenham’s under-18 and under-19 sides over the past 12 months with 34 goals, his form earning him some game time among the reserves despite his tender age.
However, although the Sun claim that Spurs are trying to tie Griffiths down to a new deal, the Daily Star report he is the target of a shock swoop from Spanish giants Barcelona.
It is claimed the La Liga champions are hoping to snap him up when he turns 18 on June 27th for a nominal compensation fee, meaning Tottenham have just weeks to secure his future or lose him for a bargain.
As one of their brightest young starlets, letting him go, especially for a cut-price, would be a move hounded by fans, and considering the huge potential he has, would be the biggest mistake the club could make this summer.
If nothing else, getting him tied up to a new deal would mean Barca would have to pay much more than they would at present, and if Griffiths really wants a move to Spain, the least he could do for his boyhood club would be put pen to paper.