Tottenham Hotspur have shown in recent months their capability for significant success. It is now crucial for them to build on their recent achievements to reach the next level.
The Lilywhites secured the Europa League title with a 1-0 victory over Manchester United in Bilbao. This win earned them a place in the Champions League, despite finishing 17th in the league.
Thomas Frank, who took charge this summer, is tasked with guiding the team back to the top end of the Premier League table. He needs to instill his demands in the players to maximize their chances of further success.
It`s expected that the Dane will want to bring in players he desires, potentially involving considerable spending in the transfer market.
Owner Daniel Levy will need to provide the necessary funds for Frank to make these squad changes, as numerous players are already being eyed during the transfer window.
The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer
Ademola Lookman has unexpectedly emerged as a potential option for Spurs this summer, following discussions with the Nigerian player`s representatives about a move to North London.
Mohammed Kudus is another key target for the summer window, but he could be expensive, with the Ghanaian currently having an £85m release clause in his contract at West Ham United.
However, according to L’Equipe, Spurs might now shift their focus to Monaco star Maghnes Akliouche, with a potential move for the young Frenchman being discussed.
The report states that Spurs have informed the 23-year-old`s representatives of their interest. Arsenal, Nottingham Forest, and Manchester United are also reported to be interested.
It is claimed that the French international could be available for around £60m this summer, after he scored seven goals and provided 12 assists in 43 appearances across all competitions.
Why Spurs’ £60m target would be a better signing than Eze
Eberechi Eze is a player who has been on Spurs` radar for the past couple of years, but a transfer for the attacking midfielder has never materialized.
The 27-year-old has attracted significant interest again this window, having registered 14 goals and 12 assists in all competitions for Crystal Palace during the 2024/25 season.
The English player has also become a key member of the national team squad recently, making him an appealing target despite his £68m release clause.
However, he might be heading to North London to join Arsenal, as the Gunners have reportedly opened talks with the midfielder regarding a move to the Emirates.
Consequently, Spurs could instead focus on Akliouche. Given his young age, the Monaco star possesses the potential to develop into an elite-level talent.
Comparing his statistics from the 2024/25 season to those of Eze, the younger player, described as `exceptional` by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has a higher shot on target accuracy, demonstrating his ability to be clinical when necessary.
He also completed more progressive carries per 90 minutes and successfully completed a higher percentage of his take-ons, indicating significant talent when dribbling.
| How Akliouche compares to Eze throughout 2024/25 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Statistics (per 90) | Akliouche | Eze |
| Games played | 32 | 34 |
| Goals & assists | 15 | 16 |
| Shot on target accuracy | 28% | 27% |
| Progressive carries | 4.8 | 2.4 |
| Progressive passes | 6.5 | 3.3 |
| Pass accuracy | 81% | 74% |
| Passes into final third | 3.4 | 1.7 |
| Take-on success | 49% | 48% |
| Carries into final third | 1.8 | 0.7 |
The Frenchman also shows superiority in pass accuracy and passes into the final third, possessing the ability to create opportunities for his teammates.
While £60m may seem like a large sum, it is cheaper than the potential fee for Eze. Furthermore, Akliouche has a greater potential for improvement in the future, being four years younger.
If he continues on his current path, signing Akliouche would represent excellent business, providing Frank with the attacking talent he needs for the start of the 2025/26 season.
