Speaking on talkSPORT, Cole and presenter Adam Catterall argued that attacking additions are the final missing piece following a heavy recruitment drive that transformed the club’s defence and midfield.
The Missing Piece: Why Tottenham Need an Elite Forward
Spurs finished 17th in the Premier League for two consecutive seasons, but expectations have shifted following an aggressive summer transfer window. The club spent nearly £230 million to overhaul their squad, securing notable deals for Jan Paul van Hecke, Mateus Fernandes, and Sandro Tonali. Yet, Roberto De Zerbi has publicly stated he wants a couple more additions through the door.
According to talkSPORT pundit Carlton Cole, the club still lacks the prolific focal point needed to elevate their status in the league table. “They need a 20-goal-a-season striker. There’s not many in the world, is there?” Cole said. He suggested that bringing back Harry Kane or signing Ivan Toney would immediately change the team’s trajectory. Presenter Adam Catterall added that the return of Kane would instantly push Spurs from a top-six side into a serious top-four and title-contending outfit.
Spurs finished 17th in the Premier League for the second season in a row last term. But this term, it’s expected they’re going to be nowhere close to that after some good recruitment.
Why Ivan Toney Was the Ideal Target
Former Tottenham scout Bryan King believes Spurs missed a crucial opportunity by never moving for Ivan Toney during his time at Brentford. Speaking to Football Insider, King questioned why the club failed to pursue the forward when his contract was running down.
“Are clubs looking for him? I said a couple of years ago, when he was unsure about his future at Brentford and he ran his contract down there, why the hell Spurs never went for him, I don’t know,” King stated. He noted that Toney would have been “perfect” for Tottenham, having developed significantly since his early days as a raw centre-forward before his high-profile move to Saudi Arabia.
Assessing Current Forward Options
With a reunion involving Harry Kane ruled out—as both the player and Bayern Munich intend to continue their relationship following his 61-goal season and ongoing contract talks—Tottenham must look elsewhere. Cole evaluated the current attacking roster, dismissing Richarlison’s body of work as insufficient for a 20-goal return.
However, Cole expressed confidence in Dominic Solanke if fitness permits. “I still have hope for Solanke if he can stay fit. I like him as a player. He’s just never never fit, that’s the problem,” Cole explained. Coupled with the return of James Maddison from injury, supporters hope that internal development combined with recent recruitment can bridge the gap.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won’t Harry Kane return to Tottenham?
Harry Kane and Bayern Munich are satisfied with their partnership following his 61-goal season, and a new contract is currently in the offing, ruling out a return to north London.
How much have Tottenham spent on recruitment?
Tottenham have spent nearly £230 million to transform their defence and midfield, bringing in players such as Jan Paul van Hecke, Mateus Fernandes, and Sandro Tonali.
What did Bryan King say about Ivan Toney?
Former scout Bryan King stated that Ivan Toney would have been “perfect” for Tottenham and questioned why the club failed to target him when his Brentford contract was running down.
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