Spurs Reportedly Eye Jean-Philippe Mateta as Surprise Final Attacking Addition
Tottenham are reportedly considering a move for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta as Roberto De Zerbi looks to add even more firepower before the transfer window closes.
Spurs have already embarked on a major squad rebuild this summer, spending heavily on several new players. Their attacking plans could become even more ambitious if expected deals for Manchester City duo Savinho and Omar Marmoush are completed.
Tottenham are understood to have agreed a deal with Manchester City for Savinho, reportedly worth an initial £75 million plus up to £10 million in potential add-ons. The Brazilian winger has been a long-standing target and now appears close to becoming a Spurs player.
Meanwhile, negotiations for Marmoush are also said to be progressing, although the Egyptian forward’s transfer would be handled separately from the Savinho deal.
If both moves are completed, De Zerbi would have two major attacking reinforcements at his disposal. However, Tottenham may not be finished there.
Mateta reportedly on De Zerbi’s radar
According to reports, De Zerbi has identified Palace striker Mateta as another potential addition to his squad.
The 29-year-old has been one of Crystal Palace’s most reliable goalscorers, reaching double figures in the Premier League in each of his last three seasons.
His physical presence, Premier League experience and goalscoring record could make him an attractive option for Spurs as they look to increase competition in the striker position.
Mateta has also earned recognition at international level, having been included in France’s World Cup squad and making three substitute appearances during the tournament.
However, Tottenham would need to carefully consider his previous injury history before making a major investment.
The striker was reportedly close to joining AC Milan earlier in the year, but the move collapsed after concerns were raised during his medical over an old knee problem dating back to his time at Mainz.
Mateta subsequently underwent surgery and returned to action for Palace in March, helping the club during their successful Conference League campaign.
Spurs could still pursue Gakpo
Tottenham’s attacking recruitment does not necessarily end with Mateta.
Spurs are also reportedly interested in Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo, although their plans could depend on how the deals for Savinho, Marmoush and Mateta develop.
Gakpo could either become an alternative target or another major attacking addition if De Zerbi wants to completely transform his forward line.
With Dominic Solanke and Richarlison having both dealt with injury issues in recent seasons, adding another proven striker could give Tottenham valuable depth.
For now, Savinho and Marmoush appear to be the immediate priorities, but Mateta’s emergence as a possible target adds another intriguing twist to Tottenham’s increasingly ambitious transfer plans.
If Spurs manage to land all three attacking targets, De Zerbi’s rebuild could become one of the biggest squad overhauls in the Premier League this summer.
