Spurs have begun talks to sign a £60m striker hailed as “destined for greatness” to bolster their attack.
Tottenham Hotspur showed renewed spirit against Manchester City on Sunday evening, displaying a level of fight and resilience rarely seen during the difficult months of Thomas Frank’s tenure. Spurs twice came from behind to rescue a result, continuing to benefit from Dominic Solanke’s influence as a focal point up front.
Frank’s reign now appears steadier, with signs it could stretch into the coming months rather than fade away. Solanke’s physical presence has been central to that stability, even if his time in north London has been disrupted by injuries. The 28-year-old has endured spells both on the pitch and on the treatment table, neither bringing much personal satisfaction, but his strength and athleticism are clearly valued by the head coach. Still, Tottenham’s attacking output remains below the desired level, and long-term planning points towards the need for elite quality to elevate the frontline.
Spurs eye marquee forward for 2026
While Solanke’s form fluctuates, Randal Kolo Muani continues to struggle. The French forward has yet to score in the Premier League and is again being linked with a loan return to Juventus ahead of the transfer deadline. His impact since arriving from Paris Saint-Germain last summer has fallen short of expectations. With Mathys Tel unsettled and seeking a move back to France, Spurs’ need for attacking reinforcements has grown, especially given Solanke’s injury history, highlighted when he left the City match nursing an ankle issue.
Spanish reports claim ENIC Group have identified Real Madrid prodigy Endrick as their ideal long-term solution, with an enquiry already made to assess the feasibility of a deal. The 19-year-old joined Madrid from Brazil in 2024 but found opportunities limited under Xavi Alonso, prompting a loan move to Lyon earlier this month. In France, he has begun to rediscover the form that made him one of South America’s most exciting young prospects.
Leeds United and Sunderland are also said to be monitoring Endrick’s situation, believing they could offer him a more central role to aid his development. However, his talent comes at a premium. Last summer, reports suggested a fee of around £60m would be required, and that figure is expected to rise. Even so, the cost is not expected to deter Tottenham as they plan a move later this year.
Why Endrick could shine at Spurs
Endrick is still adapting to life in Ligue 1, but his early impact has been striking. In four appearances for Lyon, he has scored four goals and added an assist, including a stunning hat-trick away at Metz in just his second league outing. Compact and powerful, he combines strength with explosive pace, thriving when driving into space and finishing decisively.
His profile contrasts sharply with Solanke’s. While Solanke relies on physical duels and intelligent movement in the penalty area, Endrick offers dynamism, dribbling ability, and versatility across the front line. If Tottenham were to secure his signature, the pair could initially share responsibilities through the middle, though Endrick’s qualities suggest he would soon emerge as the leading striker, with the flexibility to operate wide if required.
Solanke’s own credentials remain strong. His 19 Premier League goals for Bournemouth in 2023/24 earned him a club-record £65m move to Spurs, underlining his effectiveness when fit. Yet Endrick’s ceiling appears far higher. At such a young age, he already shows signs of rare natural ability, now being refined in France.
Highly regarded scout Jacek Kulig has described Endrick as “destined for greatness,” a label that reflects the widespread belief in his potential. Should Tottenham land him, he would not only challenge for the number nine role but could also emerge as one of the Premier League’s standout attacking stars.
