Latest developments
- Tottenham Hotspur want to sign Nice striker Evann Guessand.
- The Ivorian is expected to cost around £20 million.
- Spurs lost out to Juventus in the race for Randal Kolo Muani.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (2.5/5): Story gathering pace
With January target Randal Kolo Muani heading to Juventus, Tottenham have turned to Nice's Evann Guessand in their search for a new centre-forward.
This news broke yesterday in the Daily Mail, and has since been picked up by teamtalk.com, though there is a lack of source information to back it up.
Value (4/5): One of the best this season
The 23-year-old has been in great form this season, scoring nine and assisting five in all competitions and has been named in L'Equipe's Team of the Season so far.
That makes a supposed £20 million asking price good value, with his market valuation at £16.85 million, though if interest from West Ham and Bournemouth is genuine, a bidding war could drive the fee up.
Suitability (3.5/5): Offers something new
Guessand is noted for his height, strength and his ability with his back to goal. A modern target man, he offers something different to Tottenham's current forward options.
The Ajaccio-born forward has already surpassed his previous best goal tally for a season.
Upgrade? (3/5): Deserves a chance
Dominic Solanke has now found his feet in North London, while Richarlison's days there look to be numbered, and teenager Will Lankshear is still adapting to first-team life.
It may be tough to be anything other than Solanke's back-up, but his form in Ligue 1 means Guessand should be given the opportunity to challenge for the starting place.
Logic (4/5): Spurs need to freshen
Other forwards Timo Werner and Son Heung-min won't be around for too much longer, thus Ange Postecoglou's men need some fresh meat up front.
Guessand's style certainly brings that, and a team hunting trophies and UEFA Champions League football will be appealing for a player looking to make the next step in his career.
Whisper+ verdict: 17/25
Could missing out on Kolo Muani be a blessing in disguise? This rumour looks to have potential, much like Guessand himself.
