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Three strikers Tottenham are linked with as club prepares January exodus – TTLB Opinion
Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

Tottenham’s goal-scoring struggles continue to overshadow the progress made under Thomas Frank. The North Londoners sit fifth in the Premier League, just four points behind second-placed Manchester City. Yet the biggest concern among supporters is the lack of goals from their centre-forwards. Of the 31 goals scored by Frank’s team this season, Spurs’ No. 9s have contributed only four.

Richarlison has failed to maintain his early-season form, slipping down the pecking order once again. He has also been linked with a potential January exit, with Everton monitoring him closely. Meanwhile, both Randal Kolo Muani and Dominic Solanke have been unable to stay fit.

Solanke is still recovering from the ankle injury he suffered earlier in the season, and it appears Frank is losing patience with him. Reports now suggest the 27-year-old could be moved on either in January or next summer. Kolo Muani’s spell at N17 has also been far from smooth. The Frenchman is currently sidelined after fracturing his jaw against Manchester United, just days after recovering from a dead leg.

It is no surprise, then, that Spurs are looking to sign a new striker in January. Here is a look at the forwards they have been linked with and how they might fit into Thomas Frank’s system, starting with the strongest options and ending with the least likely.

Tottenham monitoring Palmeiras talent Vitor Roque

Recent reports suggest Tottenham are tracking Palmeiras attacker Vitor Roque as they look to strengthen their attack in the second half of the season. The Lilywhites see the 20-year-old as a potential replacement for Richarlison amid the ongoing injury issues at N17. Palmeiras, however, will only consider a winter move if their £42 million valuation is met.

Signing Roque would be a gamble. The youngster clearly has talent, having scored 20 goals in just 52 appearances for Palmeiras. But his disappointing spell at Barcelona, where he scored only twice in 16 matches, indicates he may not yet be ready for regular Premier League football.

Moreover, Tottenham need a striker capable of making an immediate impact as Frank looks to close the gap on the club’s rivals. Roque would require time to adapt to the physicality and intensity of the league. Given Solanke’s injury issues and Richarlison’s inconsistency, Spurs need a more established forward instead.

Jonathan David is another name on Tottenham’s radar

Juventus forward Jonathan David is another name linked with a move to Tottenham in January. The Canada international has slipped down the pecking order in Turin following Dusan Vlahovic’s resurgence. Juventus are reportedly open to a loan deal, provided Spurs include a buy option.

Signing David would instantly elevate Tottenham’s attacking options. The 25-year-old has proven himself to be a reliable goal-scorer, with more than 100 goals for Lille. All he needs is a stable environment in which he can thrive.

David’s style of play also suits the Premier League. He makes intelligent runs, disrupts opposition defences and is clinical in front of goal. He has a strong injury record and is still entering his prime years. Under Thomas Frank, he could take his game to the next level at N17.

Ivan Toney’s name is still being murmured in and around N17

Ivan Toney should, however, be Tottenham’s top priority heading into the January transfer window. The prolific striker is determined to secure a place in England’s World Cup squad, increasing the likelihood of a move in January. This keeps Spurs firmly in the race to sign the 29-year-old.

Toney is the complete package for what Tottenham need in a centre-forward. He has scored 41 goals in 59 appearances for Al Ahli, showcasing his finishing ability even in a less competitive league. His movement, decision-making and precision in the final third set him apart.

Spurs need a striker who can make an immediate impact under Frank, and Toney is the ideal candidate. The England international also played under Frank for six years before joining Al Ahli, meaning the manager knows exactly how to maximise his strengths. His Premier League experience makes him an even more attractive option.

It remains to be seen who Tottenham will target in January as Thomas Frank aims to continue his positive start in the league and build on last season’s Europa League success. Bringing in a new striker could transform Spurs into genuine top-four contenders and send a clear message that the club are ready to compete at the highest level.

This article first appeared on To The Lane And Back and was syndicated with permission.

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