In a seismic shift that marked the beginning of the Ange Postecoglou era at Spurs, star striker Harry Kane bid farewell to the Lilywhites, securing a colossal £100 million move to Bayern Munich. With Kane’s departure, accounting for a staggering 39% of Spurs’ total goals in his final season, concerns arose about the potential void in firepower. Notably, the Lilywhites opted not to sign a specialist senior replacement, further intensifying apprehensions among fans and pundits alike.
Surprisingly, the absence of Kane hasn’t been the gaping hole many anticipated. Spurs currently stand fourth in the Premier League for goals per 90 minutes, boasting an impressive rate of 1.95. Contrary to fears of a lack of ruthlessness, they emerge as the second most clinical team in the league, with an xG overperformance of 4.6, only trailing behind reigning champions Manchester City (7.3).
However, despite their current prowess, the need for a long-term replacement for Kane looms on Postecoglou’s agenda for 2024. Dominic Solanke has surfaced as a prime target, with reports from Football Insider indicating interest from both Spurs and their north London rivals, Arsenal. The latest update reveals that Solanke could command a hefty price tag exceeding £50 million if he departs the Vitality Stadium this summer, considering his stellar output and valuable homegrown status.
Newcastle has also thrown their hat into the ring, with Andoni Iraola’s side reportedly “bracing for offers” for their prolific frontman. The coming months will unveil whether Spurs will enter the bidding war for Solanke’s services.
Solanke, currently the reigning Premier League Player of the Month after claiming the December prize, has been in scintillating form, matching Spurs’ Son Heung-min with 12 top-flight goals this season. Only Mohamed Salah and Erling Haaland, both with 14 goals, have found the net more frequently. Solanke’s impressive xG of 11.0 underscores the sustainability of his striking prowess, complemented by a diverse skill set that extends beyond mere goal-scoring.
Gary O’Neil, Solanke’s former manager at Bournemouth, has labeled him a “dream” option due to his tireless contributions on and off the ball. O’Neil commended Solanke for his comprehensive efforts, including pressing and additional work in possession, dubbing him “the hardest working centre-forward” he’s ever witnessed.
Statistical analysis further supports Solanke’s multifaceted abilities. Ranking in the 80th percentile for blocks per 90 and the 94th for defensive actions leading to shots among forwards in similar leagues over the past year, Solanke aligns with Postecoglou’s emphasis on winning the ball high up the pitch. Spurs’ defensive efficiency is evident, allowing the second-fewest passes per defensive action and recording the highest number of high turnovers in the league.
Solanke’s capacity to pick up the ball in deeper areas and drive forward adds another dimension to his game, occupying the 74th percentile for progressive carrying distance and the 82nd for carries into the penalty area. The comprehensive all-round package makes the rumored £50 million outlay seem justifiable, given the potential impact Solanke could bring to the squad. Yet, the competition for his signature only reinforces the widespread recognition of his talent and contributions.