Tottenham Consider Surprise Move for Free-Agent Striker — But There’s a Major Catch
Tottenham are reportedly exploring a surprise move for free-agent striker Mauro Icardi, who became available after leaving Galatasaray during the summer.
The Argentine forward spent four years in Turkey and is said to be open to starting a new chapter. However, there is one major obstacle: Spurs would not be able to register Icardi until the January transfer window.
Tottenham’s interest comes amid a serious attacking crisis. Roberto De Zerbi’s side are still searching for their first Premier League goal of the season after failing to score in their opening four league matches — the first time in the club’s history they have gone through such a run.
Spurs have collected just two draws and suffered defeats against Brentford and Newcastle, conceding eight goals in the process and sitting 17th in the table. Their struggles continued in the Carabao Cup, where they were beaten 3-1 by Liverpool.
According to Italian outlet Cronache di Spogliatoio, via The Sun, Tottenham have identified Icardi as a potential solution to their lack of goals. The former Inter Milan, Paris Saint-Germain and Galatasaray striker has never played in the Premier League.
Journalist Nahuel Ferreira has also reported that Greek side Olympiacos held talks with Icardi last week. However, his reported £8.6 million annual salary is believed to be beyond what the club can currently afford.
A free transfer could appeal to Tottenham after their huge summer spending. Spurs have reportedly invested around £100m on Sandro Tonali and £85m on Bruno Fernandes, while Omar Marmoush arrived on loan with a £60m obligation to buy and winger Savio joined for £85m.
Despite the spending, Tottenham’s attacking options have struggled. Marmoush is yet to score for the club, while Dominic Solanke has found the net only once in six appearances.
Richarlison has also been completely frozen out. He has not featured since the opening-day 3-0 defeat to Brentford and is reportedly unlikely to return before January following a breakdown in his relationship with the club and failed moves to Trabzonspor and Vasco da Gama.
De Zerbi has acknowledged the difficult situation surrounding Tottenham’s goal drought, insisting that he has experienced similar challenges before and that rebuilding a team takes time.
The Spurs boss pointed to performances against Everton and Nottingham as evidence of improvements in the team’s style of play and mentality, despite the lack of results.
For now, Tottenham will have to remain patient. Even if they reach an agreement with Icardi, the Argentine striker would not be eligible to play for Spurs until the January registration window opens.
