Tottenham might have made a transfer mistake by signing forward
Tottenham made a decisive shift in their attacking lineup to support Ange Postecoglou’s transition to a post-Harry Kane era, beginning with the acquisitions of Manor Solomon and Leicester City’s creative midfielder, James Maddison, during the summer 2023 transfer window.
These early moves were aimed at revitalizing Tottenham’s offense, adding much-needed depth and versatility to the squad. However, the team didn’t stop there; they made a substantial long-term investment by signing Brennan Johnson, the dynamic former Nottingham Forest winger known for his ability to score from both wings, in a deal close to £50 million.
The results of these strategic acquisitions are already becoming evident as Tottenham reinforced its attack further in the summer 2024 window by securing Dominic Solanke from Bournemouth. Solanke, who had just completed a standout season, joined Tottenham for a notable fee of £65 million to fill the void left by Kane as an out-and-out No. 9.
Despite initial reservations about the transfer fee, the 27-year-old has quickly become an asset, contributing three goals in six starts and averaging a remarkable 2.6 dribbles completed and fouls drawn per game, showcasing his skill and utility in Tottenham’s new setup.
While Solanke’s arrival may have sparked discussions regarding his price, he has delivered value, a contrast to another forward brought into the club in January 2024, Timo Werner. Originally brought in on loan from RB Leipzig, Werner arrived with an option to buy for a modest £8.5 million. This low fee reflects the struggles Werner experienced during his return to Leipzig and hints at the challenges he’s faced in adapting to Tottenham’s style.
Despite his prior successes, including a Champions League title with Chelsea, Werner’s performance in North London has left fans questioning his fit in the squad. His six-month stint was underwhelming enough to make his extended loan for another season a surprising move, yet fans were willing to give him a second chance given the low commitment involved.
However, Werner’s challenges have continued into the 2024/25 season, casting doubt on his future with Tottenham. Although he has shown glimpses of his talent with a single assist and displayed impressive speed and athleticism, he has started only two games this season.
His inability to adjust to the specific demands of Tottenham’s system has been apparent, especially on the wings, where the team already has sufficient depth. Reports from German outlet Kicker suggest that Tottenham might be open to Leipzig recalling Werner’s loan, indicating the club’s potential readiness to part ways with the forward.
Werner’s struggles are reminiscent of his prior spells at Chelsea, Leipzig, and with the German national team, where he faced similar issues adapting to roles that didn’t fully leverage his strengths.
His difficulties fitting in at striker for Tottenham reflect broader challenges he has had in the Premier League, suggesting that perhaps a move away from England could better suit his skill set and help him find his form.
Tottenham’s recruitment over the past two windows demonstrates the club’s commitment to building a well-rounded attacking force capable of thriving without Harry Kane.
While some moves have paid off immediately, others have been more experimental, offering glimpses into the team’s future. These changes showcase Tottenham’s strategy of balancing established talent with potential, working towards a cohesive unit that aligns with Postecoglou’s vision.
Read more: He’s worked really hard: Postecoglou wowed by Tottenham talent who now looks so strong and lean