Okafor transfer: Tottenham head to Milan for Tel alternative? Whisper+ verdict

Okafor transfer: Tottenham head to Milan for Tel alternative? Whisper+ verdict
Okafor the Tel alternative for Spurs? Photo by IMAGO

Latest developments

  • Tottenham Hotspur are interested in AC Milan's Noah Okafor.
  • Spurs see the left-winger as an alternative to Mathys Tel.
  • The Swiss international is not first choice at San Siro.

Whisper+ analysis

Authenticity (3/5): Insight from Italy

With competition for Bayern Munich's Mathys Tel so high, Tottenham are exploring potential alternatives and have made contact with AC Milan to discuss a deal for Noah Okafor.

That is according to Italian journalist Matteo Moretto, a trusted source on matters pertaining to European football.

Value (4/5): Cheaper than Tel

Unlike Tel, Okafor's contract still has over three years to run, giving Milan time to hold out for a fee they deem appropriate for their Swiss international, who has a market value of £12.55 million.

As well as very likely going for less money, Okafor will also be less of a burden on any suitor's wage bill compared to Tel.

Suitability (4/5): A good fit for Ange

That is because he has started just six times in all competitions this season, and is not a huge part of the Rossoneri's plans, though injuries have also played their part too.

His pace and dribbling are two of his best qualities, making him a great fit for the energetic, attacking style Ange Postecoglou sticks to.

Upgrade? (4/5): Spurs injuries helps

Spurs currently have three recognised left-wingers in their squad, though Son Heung-min has not been as productive as usual this season, while Timo Werner is injured and Mikey Moore is not ready for regular starts.

That gives Okafor a chance to force his way in, but his versatility in attacking areas could see him help Spurs out up front with Dominic Solanke injured.

Logic (2.5/5): Spurs getting desperate

One goal in 17 appearances this season is not the kind of numbers that will excite anyone connected to Spurs, but needs must with time running out.

Those numbers, though, are largely down to Okafor playing second fiddle to Rafael Leao, but with rumours of the Portuguese leaving, the 24-year-old might get more of a chance if he sticks around in Milan.

Whisper+ verdict: 17.5/25

A decent alternative with time running out, but perhaps Spurs should not completely give up on Tel just yet.


Writer and commentator whose words have appeared in World Soccer Magazine, MUNDIAL and OneFootball, and whose voice has been heard on Flashscore, calling everything from the Olympic basketball final to the UEFA Conference League. Long-suffering Reading fan.