Will Lankshear, the young striker who's been making waves in the Championship, is now a hot topic in the transfer market. With Tottenham Hotspur rejecting three approaches from Sporting, Southampton, and Wolves, it's clear that Lankshear's potential is being recognized. But what does this mean for Spurs? Is he a player they should integrate into the first team, or is he better off being sold? These are the questions that Tottenham's decision-makers must answer.
Lankshear's impressive loan spell at Oxford United, where he scored 11 goals and provided 2 assists, has undoubtedly caught the eye of many clubs. His size, strength, and ability to thrive on service make him a player with a bright future. However, his lack of experience at the Premier League level and the fact that he's only 21 years old, means that Tottenham has a difficult decision to make. Should they integrate him into the first team, or is he better off being sold for a substantial fee?
One thing is certain: Lankshear's value to Tottenham goes beyond his potential as a first-team striker. As a homegrown and club-trained player, he is an invaluable squad player, especially if Tottenham qualify for European competition next season. This dual role as a potential first-team player and squad player makes his value even more significant.
However, the decision is not without its challenges. Lankshear's preference for a permanent move, rather than another loan, adds another layer of complexity. With two senior strikers ahead of him and the possibility of Roberto De Zerbi demanding another one, it's unclear how much game time he will get if he stays at Tottenham. This uncertainty further complicates the decision-making process.
To make matters more interesting, Tottenham's decision on Lankshear could also impact their plans for another talented U23 striker, Mason Melia. With so many variables at play, it's clear that Tottenham has a difficult decision to make. They must carefully consider Lankshear's potential, his value to the team, and his preferences to make the best decision for the club and the player.
In my opinion, Tottenham should keep Lankshear around for at least most of the preseason. Taking him on the tour to Australia and New Zealand, and throwing him into the squad for a few more friendlies, will give them a better understanding of his potential. If they don't appear keen on selling him, they should give him a raise and a loan to a good club in the Championship or the Bundesliga. This approach will allow them to see if he can continue his impressive form and develop into a top-tier player.
What makes this situation particularly fascinating is the potential for Lankshear to become a 'diamond in the rough'. His impressive loan career, which some compare to Harry Kane's, suggests that he could have a bright future at Tottenham. However, it's also possible that he could level out at a Championship or lower-level Premier League striker. Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Tottenham's decision on Lankshear will have a significant impact on their future success.
