Spurs face major competition in race to sign Premier League striker | OneFootball

Spurs face Milan competition for striker signing

Tottenham’s January plans are sharpening around the pursuit of immediate first team upgrades, with recruitment expected to prioritise starting calibre additions rather than developmental signings. One familiar target has re entered the frame, but Spurs now face competition from AC Milan as they assess the striker market during a pivotal mid season window.

Reports indicate Tottenham could make another attempt to sign a Premier League forward who has already scored eight goals this term, having failed to land him during a late push on summer deadline day. That approach centred on Crystal Palace’s Jean Philippe Mateta, and the situation surrounding his contract continues to attract interest across Europe, according to Spurs Web.

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Contract uncertainty drives transfer interest

Concerns at Selhurst Park are growing. Palace remain in discussion with Mateta over a new deal, but recent updates suggest negotiations have stalled.

Football Insider report that “there is some distance between the two parties”, with Oliver Glasner’s side “unwilling to offer the 28-year-old the salary that he is demanding”.

The lack of progress has fuelled recognition that Palace may need to consider selling should talks not advance before January. Crucially for Spurs, this uncertainty keeps the door open for a renewed approach.

Milan tracking striker situation

While Tottenham’s interest has been well established, AC Milan have now joined the chase. Football Insider state that the Rossoneri are closely monitoring the striker’s contractual status, positioning themselves to move swiftly if conditions align.

An additional update earlier this week suggested that “Mateta is keen on moving to Italy at some point in his career”. That sentiment may enhance Milan’s appeal, should their interest firm into a concrete proposal.

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Spurs have financial leverage

Tottenham are expected to be capable of offering a more competitive financial package than Milan, which could prove decisive if negotiations centre on salary expectations. The attraction of remaining in the Premier League, combined with the chance to compete in the Champions League, would also be strong selling points for Spurs should they progress talks.

From a recruitment standpoint, the profile fits Tottenham’s clear desire for immediate impact rather than developmental depth. A proven Premier League scorer entering his peak years aligns with January needs, especially if the pathway to a deal becomes more accessible due to stalled negotiations at Palace.

With the market opening soon, this situation is quietly building towards becoming one of Spurs’ most watchable transfer storylines of the winter.

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Spurs’ need for a reliable, physical number nine to reduce the creative burden on the attacking midfielders has been evident across the season. While the current options bring pace and movement, what has often been missing is a consistent penalty box presence who turns strong build up into goals under pressure.

Seeing Milan enter the race inevitably triggers anxiety, particularly given the reported desire to play in Italy. However, Spurs still hold key advantages. The Premier League platform offers greater exposure, intensity, and commercial pull, while Champions League football in North London is a compelling sporting case for any ambitious striker.

Financial leverage also matters in modern recruitment. If Palace are hesitant to meet salary demands, Tottenham can step forward with a package that reflects the player’s value and role as a leading rather than rotational striker. For supporters, the hope is that the club move decisively this time. Hesitation in summer arguably set the forward line back months.

January presents a rare opportunity to correct that narrative, secure a proven goalscorer, and sustain momentum in both domestic and European competitions.