Spurs hit the jackpot for Ange Postecoglou for “incredible” signing now worth way more than top target Ivan Toney
Ange Postecoglou’s inaugural season with Tottenham Hotspur can undoubtedly be deemed a success. Tasked with transforming a squad that appeared directionless under Antonio Conte, the Australian manager revitalized Spurs, making them competitive and exciting to watch once again. This transformation was achieved despite the absence of their talisman, Harry Kane, which further highlights the remarkable job Postecoglou has done.
Under Conte, Tottenham’s football often lacked flair and purpose, leading to a sense of frustration among fans and players alike. In stark contrast, Postecoglou has instilled a sense of belief and ambition in the squad. His emphasis on attacking football and high-pressing tactics has not only produced entertaining matches but has also rekindled the club’s competitive spirit. The challenge now is to build on this foundation and take the team to even greater heights.
To sustain this upward trajectory, Tottenham must now support Postecoglou in the transfer market by securing a new number nine, a role he is reportedly eager to fill. The departure of Harry Kane left a significant void in the team’s attacking lineup, and finding a capable replacement is crucial for the club’s continued success. Among the numerous strikers linked with the club, Brentford’s Ivan Toney stands out as a potential game-changer.
Toney’s potential addition would be monumental for the Lilywhites. His proven goal-scoring ability and physical presence make him an ideal candidate to lead the line for Spurs. However, securing his services will not come cheap. Recent reports suggest that Tottenham and West Ham United are the leading contenders for Toney’s signature, with the latter exploring alternative options, making Tottenham the favorites. Furthermore, talkSPORT (via the Spurs Web) reported that Toney is keen on a move to North London, indicating his interest in joining Postecoglou’s project.
The exact offer Tottenham will present remains uncertain, but it is anticipated to be under £50 million. According to The Sun, Brentford has reduced their asking price to below that figure to avoid losing Toney for free next summer. Although hefty for a player in the final year of his contract, Toney’s record justifies the price. Since Brentford’s promotion from the Championship, he has amassed 20 goal involvements in 37 games in his first season, 26 in 35 games in his second, and despite a reduced output of six in 17 matches last year due to an eight-month betting-related ban, his potential impact is undeniable.
Investing up to £50 million in Toney appears to be a no-brainer, especially given Postecoglou’s urgent need for a new striker. His ability to consistently score and assist makes him a valuable asset, and his experience in the Premier League ensures he can adapt quickly to Tottenham’s style of play. However, even at this price, Toney would be valued lower than one of his prospective teammates. James Maddison, signed from Leicester City for around £40 million last summer, is currently valued by Transfermarkt at approximately €70 million (£59 million), which is at least £9 million more than Toney’s potential cost.
Several factors contribute to Maddison’s high valuation. Firstly, his £170,000-per-week contract runs until summer 2028, negating any immediate need for Tottenham to consider selling or renewing his deal. This long-term commitment provides the club with security and stability, knowing they have a top-class midfielder locked down for the foreseeable future. Secondly, despite an inconsistent end to last season, Maddison managed four goals and nine assists in 30 appearances, and over the previous three years, he accumulated 62 goals and assists in 115 games. His ability to influence matches and create opportunities makes him an indispensable player for Tottenham.
According to FBref, which compares players in similar positions across Europe’s top five leagues, Maddison excels in several key areas. Talent scout Jacek Kulig has dubbed the 27-year-old “incredible,” noting his top 1% ranking for shot-creating actions and progressive passes, top 2% for attempted passes, and top 7% for assists per 90 minutes. These statistics highlight his exceptional vision, creativity, and passing ability, which are crucial for unlocking defenses and providing goal-scoring opportunities for his teammates.
In conclusion, while Toney would undoubtedly be an exceptional signing for Spurs, matching or surpassing Maddison’s valuation will be a tall order. Maddison’s consistent performances and significant contributions make him one of the most valuable players in the squad. However, Toney’s addition would provide Tottenham with a lethal attacking threat and enhance their chances of challenging the top teams in the Premier League. The combination of Maddison’s creativity and Toney’s goal-scoring prowess could be the key to Postecoglou’s vision of building a team capable of competing at the highest level. Therefore, it is imperative that Tottenham back their manager in the transfer market and bring in the players needed to continue their resurgence and achieve sustained success.