Ex-manager backs Tottenham to sign Aston Villa star for £60m after latest injury news

Martin Allen believes Tottenham could look to sign Jhon Duran as temporary striker cover while Dominic Solanke recovers from injury. Solanke, who sustained a knee injury in training before Tottenham’s defeat against Everton, is expected to be sidelined for several weeks.

With Spurs securing one win and suffering a loss against Leicester City since his absence, Ange Postecoglou might push for reinforcements before the transfer window closes. Allen, formerly in charge at Leicester City, suggests that Tottenham may target Aston Villa’s Duran, but acquiring him during the January window could present significant challenges.

Discussing Tottenham’s potential move for Duran, Allen questioned whether the club would be willing to invest between £50-60 million for a striker, especially considering Solanke’s eventual return.

He acknowledged the difficulty of signing quality players in January, as clubs are typically reluctant to part with their key assets mid-season. The unpredictability of the winter transfer window has made securing new players a complex task, and Tottenham faces an uphill battle if they decide to pursue Duran before the deadline.

Duran has emerged as one of the Premier League’s most promising young forwards, making a strong impression at Aston Villa. The Colombian international has experienced a breakthrough campaign under Unai Emery, scoring 12 goals in 29 appearances across all competitions, despite primarily coming off the bench.

His ability to influence games in limited minutes highlights his potential, making him an appealing option for a club like Tottenham, which seeks attacking depth.

A move to North London could be enticing for Duran, especially given the opportunity to compete directly with Solanke for a starting role. Both players share similar attributes, including physicality, finishing ability, and hold-up play, making Duran a logical fit within Postecoglou’s system.

However, the key question remains whether Daniel Levy is willing to meet Aston Villa’s valuation. The Birmingham-based club would likely demand a substantial fee, knowing that Tottenham’s need for attacking reinforcements could drive up the asking price.

While Duran’s talent is undeniable, the financial implications of a mid-season transfer add complexity to the equation. Tottenham has historically been cautious about spending large sums in January, preferring to make strategic signings during the summer window.

The club must weigh the immediate need for a striker against the long-term implications of a significant investment. If Villa insists on a premium fee, Spurs may decide to explore alternative options or wait until the next transfer window to reassess their attacking options.

Postecoglou’s tactical philosophy emphasizes fluid attacking play, requiring strikers who can seamlessly integrate into his high-intensity system. Duran’s mobility and ability to operate in different attacking roles align well with Tottenham’s style, but adapting to a new club mid-season can be challenging.

The Premier League’s intensity demands quick adjustments, and while Duran has showcased his ability in English football, transitioning to a different tactical setup could take time.

Tottenham’s current position in the league and ambitions for European qualification further complicate their decision-making process. Strengthening the squad in January could provide the necessary boost to maintain momentum, yet financial prudence remains a priority.

Levy’s reputation as a tough negotiator suggests that any deal for Duran would only proceed if the terms align with Tottenham’s long-term strategy.

As the transfer window nears its conclusion, Tottenham’s approach will become clearer. If they identify Duran as the ideal candidate, negotiations with Villa will determine whether a deal materializes.

The club must balance short-term squad needs with financial responsibility, ensuring that any signing contributes to both immediate success and long-term stability. Whether Duran makes the switch to North London remains uncertain, but his profile certainly fits the mold of a player who could thrive under Postecoglou’s guidance.