Tottenham Hotspur reportedly made an approach for Southend striker Charlie Kelman during the January transfer window but saw their bid rejected.
According to Echo Sport, both Spurs and Sunderland made bids for the 18-year-old but saw them rejected by chairman Ron Martin. The youngster, who is a product of the youth academy at the League One club, has scored five goals in just nine appearances so far this season, which has seen him attract to the interest of the North London club.
Although the Southend man would have been unlikely to join up with the first-team squad at Spurs, it is yet another transfer set back for Jose Mourinho’s side, who failed to bring in a striker during the January transfer window. This leaves them with just 17-year-old Troy Parrott as a natural in that position, after the long-term injury suffered by Harry Kane in the New Year’s Day defeat to Southampton.
Is it embarrassing that Spurs couldn't sign Kelman?
Yes
No
TIF Tactics:
It is no surprise that Southend were keen to keep hold of Kelman during the January transfer window, with the striker one of few bright sparks in what has been a dreadful season so far for the Shrimpers; with the Essex side second bottom of League One. It is disappointing for Spurs that they were unable to negotiate a deal for the 18-year-old, who’s value will surely continue to rise if he continues to score goals.
Perhaps we will see Spurs make another bid for Kelman in the summer transfer window and although he was probably not the answer to Spurs’ attacking problems, he could prove to be one for the future.