Tottenham could miss out on one of their prime targets they were close to landing in the winter transfer window.
Tottenham Hotspur’s attacking ranks have been depleted in recent months.
Firstly, the North Londoners took the abrupt decision of selling Brennan Johnson to Crystal Palace in the winter transfer window. They did not replace him immediately, feeling there was enough depth in the squad. In February, Wilson Odobert sustained an ACL injury, further reducing their options out wide.
Seeking a replacement for Johnson during the January transfer window, Spurs wanted to sign AS Monaco star Maghnes Akliouche. Tottenham were considering launching a bid for Maghnes Akliouche after missing out on his services last summer. Eventually, they decided to cool their interest in the player.
Manchester United target move for AS Monaco trickster
Akliouche has been enjoying a productive season for AS Monaco, with seven goals and eight assists in 37 appearances across all competitions. The left-footed creative attacker has been one of the Ligue 1 side’s star performers, and Tottenham officials got their glimpse first-hand when he produced a dazzling display in the 0-0 draw with Thomas Frank’s side in the Champions League at the Principality Stadium earlier this campaign.
Now, according to a report from Spanish outlet Fichajes, Manchester United have intensified their interest in Akliouche. They had scouts present at the stadium to watch the Frenchman in action for Monaco against Marseille. The creative midfielder played 84 minutes, as Monaco defeated Marseille 2-1.
Manchester United are eyeing a player to support attacking talents such as Bruno Fernandes, Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo and Benjamin Sesko. They have enjoyed a renaissance in form under interim boss Michael Carrick, climbing to third in the table and looking one of the favourites to qualify for the Champions League next term. There will be an increase in the number of fixtures should Man United qualify for the Champions League, thus, making it vital to improve their squad depth.
The report adds that INEOS have identified Akliouche as the player to add more quality and depth to their attacking ranks, with Carrick particularly an admirer of his qualities. The 24-year-old feels ready to make the jump to a more challenging and intense league amid United interest.
Can Spurs compete with Man United?
Despite missing out on his services on two occasions, Tottenham would still have Akliouche in their shortlist of summer targets. The North London club have extensively scouted the Monaco playmaker over the season, but competing with United for his signature won’t be easy.
That is purely because the Lilywhites are currently battling relegation. Hope is on the new head coach, Roberto De Zerbi, to weave his magic and save the club from monumental embarrassment. Even if we avoid the drop under De Zerbi, there would be no European nights in N17 next season. And for a fresh, dynamic talent like Akliouche, he’d likely trade Monaco for a club that will allow him to continue playing in the Champions League.
At this moment, United look like they will be in Europe’s most elite competition. So, there is a big chance Tottenham could end up losing another target to one of our rivals, thanks to poor planning and recruitment strategy from the board.