Ange Postecoglou’s team is looking for a top-tier centre forward.
Tottenham Hotspur’s 1-1 draw against West Ham United on Tuesday evening left Ange Postecoglou in a conundrum as the season neared its end: his team had lost the spectacular attacking flair that had propelled them to early season glory.
Tottenham are still fifth in the Premier League, with a nine-point lead over Manchester United, but they know that the actual goal is to beat Aston Villa to fourth place and secure a place in the Champions League next season.
Europe‘s best club competition attracts the biggest names and gives the highest prize, and if Spurs are successful in obtaining a spot, it will be a significant step forward in their search for a new centre-forward.
Spurs are setting up a new striker
While Tottenham have been connected with a plethora of names for the front line since Harry Kane‘s move to Bayern Munich last summer, the most recent report may be the most interesting yet.
According to The Sun, Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy is prepared to compete with London rivals Arsenal for Newcastle United star Alexander Isak this summer, with the Swede valued at £100 million by his club.
Isak is a jewel in Tyneside, but the Magpies may have to give up their gleaming silver to comply with financial fair play laws, especially if they fail to qualify for Europe – United are presently seventh, one point behind West Ham.
Why are Spurs interested in Alexander Isak?
Newcastle made Isak their club-record acquisition in August 2022 after making excellent success under Eddie Howe‘s leadership, signing the striker from Real Sociedad for £63 million.
The 24-year-old showed lots of promise in his debut season in England, but injuries prevented him from reaching his potential. Despite making only 17 Premier League starts last season, he scored ten goals and assisted twice.
Standing at 6 feet 3, Isak is a rangy and athletic centre-forward with quick feet that distinguishes him from the majority of strikers in Europe. Henry Winter of The Times praised him for his “fearless” performances at St James’ Park.
According to Sofascore, Isak has 15 goals in 19 starts in the English Premier League this season, 13 of which have come with his deadly right foot.
If the Lilywhites are looking for a prolific new vocalist to lead a bright new era (although at a high price), look no further. Tottenham should prioritise Isak over Ivan Toney, no matter how talented he is.
How does Isak compare to Ivan Toney?
The nagging inconsistency that has plagued many interminable silverware-chasing seasons appears to be coming to an end under Postecoglou’s direction, with recruitment so far landing the proper stars to taste the brewing success.
Toney is a fine centre-forward who has scored 24 goals and contributed five assists in 44 Premier League matches since the start of last season. Three Lions teammate Declan Rice has lauded him for his explosive talents, describing him as “like Harry Kane.”
According to trade reporter Dean Jones, Tottenham are “lurking in the background” for the 28-year-old, with Manchester United and West Ham United appearing to be the current frontrunners.
Toney is clinical and greatly benefits his teammates with his creativity, quick intellect, and positive moves, but Isak probably has a greater skill set as a pure striker and natural finisher.
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