Spurs make contact to sign £47m Premier League “monster” who’s a lot like Isak
The winds of change are sweeping through North London as Tottenham Hotspur enter a new era under Thomas Frank. After ending their 17-year trophy drought only to part ways with Ange Postecoglou weeks later, Spurs find themselves at a crossroads—one that could be defined by their activity in this summer’s transfer market.
While defensive reinforcements remain a priority, the club’s hierarchy appears equally focused on revitalizing an attack that produced fewer goals than six Premier League rivals last season.
Recent links to Liverpool’s Diogo Jota have emerged as particularly intriguing, with journalist Matt Thielen revealing Tottenham have already made contact about the Portuguese forward.
At £47 million, the 28-year-old wouldn’t come cheap, but his profile offers something Spurs currently lack—a proven Premier League goalscorer entering his prime years.
What makes Jota especially compelling are the striking statistical parallels to Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, one of world football’s most coveted strikers.
The Isak Comparison: More Than Superficial
Data analytics platform FBref identifies Jota as Isak’s eighth-most comparable forward across Europe’s top leagues this season. The numbers reveal why:
| Metric (per 90) | Diogo Jota | Alexander Isak |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Penalty Expected G+A | 0.74 | 0.70 |
| Expected Assists | 0.08 | 0.12 |
| Progressive Carries | 2.78 | 2.71 |
| Goals per Shot on Target | 0.46 | 0.46 |
| Defensive Clearances | 0.45 | 0.56 |
These metrics showcase two forwards who threaten defenses in similar ways—combining clinical finishing with intelligent movement and the ability to progress play. Jota’s 0.74 non-penalty expected goal contributions per 90 minutes nearly match Isak’s 0.70, while their identical 0.46 goals per shot on target highlight ruthless efficiency.
Beyond the Comparisons: Jota’s Standalone Credentials
While the Isak parallels are flattering, Jota’s value extends beyond statistical resemblances. Since joining Liverpool in 2020, he’s delivered 52 goals and 25 assists across 152 appearances—a goal involvement every 110 minutes.
This output becomes more impressive considering he’s often operated as a rotational option rather than an undisputed starter at Anfield.
Liverpool blogger Si Steers’ description of Jota as a “monster” reflects his knack for decisive contributions in big moments. His versatility—capable of leading the line or playing across the front three—would offer Frank tactical flexibility as Spurs juggle domestic and European commitments.
Why Jota Fits Tottenham’s Needs
- Proven Premier League Pedigree: Unlike riskier imports, Jota has demonstrated his quality across five Premier League seasons with Wolves and Liverpool.
- Peak Age Profile: At 28, he combines experience with several prime years remaining—ideal for a Spurs squad blending youth and veterans.
- Big-Game Mentality: His record in crucial matches (including 11 Champions League goals) addresses Tottenham’s historical struggles in decisive moments.
- Tactical Adaptability: Comfortable in multiple systems, Jota could thrive whether Frank employs a 4-3-3 or the 3-4-3 he favored at Brentford.
While £47 million represents significant investment, Jota’s Premier League readiness makes him a safer bet than pricier alternatives like Bradley Barcola (£101m).
With Bryan Mbeumo likely Manchester United-bound, the Portuguese international emerges as perhaps the most cost-effective elite attacker available.
Securing Jota would signal Tottenham’s ambition to compete on multiple fronts next season. His winning mentality—cultivated under Jürgen Klopp—could prove invaluable in a dressing room learning to handle expectations after last season’s Carabao Cup triumph.
For Daniel Levy, the decision boils down to whether to invest in guaranteed quality or gamble on potential. Given Spurs’ need for immediate impact as they return to European competition, Jota’s blend of pedigree, productivity, and tactical fit makes him arguably the most compelling attacking target available this summer.
As Tottenham navigate this transitional period, one thing is clear: players of Jota’s caliber don’t often become available at reasonable prices.
If Frank wants a forward who can hit the ground running while mirroring the output of stars like Isak, this may be an opportunity too good to pass up.