Ex-Tottenham scout shares update on Spurs deal today on Angel Gomes
Tottenham are not expected to pursue a move for Angel Gomes, despite the midfielder’s current contract situation at Lille.
According to Mick Brown, a former scout for both Spurs and Manchester United, while several clubs are monitoring Gomes closely, Spurs are unlikely to be among them.
Brown, who remains well-connected in the football world, believes that Tottenham will not make an offer for the 23-year-old due to the presence of James Maddison, who occupies a similar role in Ange Postecoglou’s team.
Maddison has been a key player for Tottenham this season, thriving under Postecoglou’s tactical system, and his playing style overlaps significantly with that of Gomes.
Both players possess strong ball-handling skills, creativity, and an eye for making incisive passes in advanced midfield roles. While Gomes tends to play slightly deeper than Maddison, the similarities in their approach to the game make a potential transfer for Gomes unnecessary for Spurs at this stage.
Brown explained that Maddison’s ability to drop into deeper positions during matches further diminishes the likelihood of Tottenham making a move for Gomes.
Gomes, who has less than a year remaining on his current contract with Lille, is drawing attention from several Premier League clubs. With his deal set to expire, he will be free to discuss a move to England as early as January.
His recent performances for the England national team have only intensified interest from potential suitors. Gomes started in England’s 3-1 victory over Finland, where he impressed with an assist for Jack Grealish’s opening goal, adding to the speculation about his future.
However, despite his talents, Tottenham’s priorities appear to lie elsewhere. Brown emphasized that the club’s existing squad depth, particularly in the attacking midfield position, means they are unlikely to consider adding Gomes to their ranks.
Tottenham’s recruitment strategy under Postecoglou has focused on building a cohesive unit, and with Maddison excelling in his role, the need for an additional playmaker like Gomes seems redundant.
Moreover, there are concerns about whether Gomes, despite his technical abilities, would be physically suited for the demands of Premier League football. The physicality of the English top flight poses challenges for players who thrive on skill and finesse, and this could be another reason why Tottenham may pass on the opportunity to sign Gomes.
While he has proven his abilities in Ligue 1 and on the international stage, there is still uncertainty about how well he would adapt to the pace and physicality of the Premier League.
Brown’s insight suggests that Tottenham will continue to focus on maximizing Maddison’s potential in the playmaker role, rather than seeking out additional players with similar attributes.
Maddison’s contribution to the team’s attacking play has been vital, and Spurs will likely prioritize strengthening other areas of the squad in future transfer windows, especially if they aim to compete on multiple fronts.
While Gomes remains a highly rated prospect with an expiring contract, Spurs seem content with their current midfield options. Other Premier League clubs, however, will be watching his situation closely, and a return to England for Gomes still seems likely, albeit not at Tottenham.
In summary, Tottenham’s decision to forgo a move for Angel Gomes aligns with their current squad structure and the role that Maddison plays in the team.
Despite Gomes’ talent and potential, the overlap in their skill sets and concerns about his physical adaptation to the Premier League mean that Spurs will likely explore other options to reinforce their squad. With several clubs on alert regarding Gomes’ contract situation, his future remains a key talking point as the January transfer window approaches.
Table: Comparison of Angel Gomes and James Maddison’s Playing Styles
| Attribute | Angel Gomes | James Maddison |
|---|---|---|
| Position | Central/Attacking Midfielder | Attacking Midfielder |
| Passing | Excellent vision and creativity | Strong passer, key to build-up play |
| Role in Team | Playmaker, plays deeper at times | Playmaker, often operates in advanced positions |
| Physicality | Light frame, questions about adaptation | Physically adept, handles Premier League demands |
| International Experience | Represented England, impressive performances | Regular England squad member, established at international level |
| Current Form | Strong performances for Lille and England | Key player for Spurs, thriving under Postecoglou |
Tottenham’s decision to maintain their current roster reflects the club’s confidence in Maddison’s ability to lead the midfield creatively, while Gomes’ potential move back to England could find traction with other clubs that are seeking a dynamic, young playmaker.
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