'Wait till summer'- PL rival unlikely to offload star striker in January as Tottenham transfer links intensify

Randal Kolo Muani replaced Richarlison in the second half, a move that suggested Thomas Frank was unimpressed with the Brazilian’s contribution. If Spurs want to close the gap on their rivals and maintain their strong start in the Premier League, they will need to sign a striker capable of replacing Richarlison at N17 in the coming months.

Tottenham suffer January blow for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta

It is no secret that Tottenham are prioritising the signing of a new striker in the upcoming winter window. Recent reports suggest that the Lilywhites are targeting Crystal Palace star Jean-Philippe Mateta. Thomas Frank is believed to be a huge admirer of the Frenchman and sees him as an ideal fit for the squad heading into the second half of the season.

However, Crystal Palace have now made it clear that the 28-year-old will not leave the club in January. As per Pete O’Rourke (via Football Insider),

“Spurs have been there with a number of strikers in recent weeks and months. It does seem like it’s an area of the team they would like to strengthen. Mateta could be a good fit for them and everything, but I don’t see any deal happening in January.”

The journalist added,

“I think all interested parties in Mateta might have to wait till the summer because I don’t think Palace would let him go in January. And if he doesn’t sign a new contract before next summer, then that might increase the possibility of the player moving on and Palace being open to an offer for him.”

O’Rourke believes Jean-Philippe Mateta would be a strong addition for Tottenham, but a January move appears highly unlikely. Crystal Palace are determined to keep hold of their main striker as they push for European qualification under Oliver Glasner. A summer transfer could be more realistic if Palace receive a suitable offer, especially since Mateta has yet to agree to a contract extension at Selhurst Park.

Spurs clearly need attacking reinforcements in January if they are to build on last season’s Europa League success. So, waiting until the summer for Mateta’s potential arrival may not be wise. The Lilywhites need an immediate impact signing who can step in and replace Richarlison in the starting eleven. One name that naturally comes to mind is Ivan Toney, who is also expected to be available for a transfer in the coming months.