Report: Tottenham Plot Swoop for 17-Goal Lyon Star Amid French Club’s Financial Crisis
Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly preparing to make a move for prolific Lyon forward Georges Mikautadze, as the North London club looks to capitalise on the sudden and dramatic downfall of one of France’s most historic football institutions.
Following their memorable Europa League final triumph over Manchester United and the resulting financial boost, Spurs now find themselves in a strong position to strengthen their squad. The club’s ambitions for the upcoming campaign appear to be growing, particularly under new head coach Thomas Frank — recently ranked 15th in FourFourTwo’s prestigious list of the world’s best managers.
Meanwhile, over in France, chaos has erupted. Lyon — a club with decades of top-flight pedigree — have suffered a major blow after being officially demoted to Ligue 2 due to ongoing financial mismanagement. The decision comes as a severe setback for the club, and it has already triggered a scramble behind the scenes to offload high-value players in order to balance the books and adapt to life in the second tier.
This is where Tottenham could benefit. According to a report from Italian publication TuttoJuve, Spurs are actively monitoring Mikautadze’s situation and could be poised to strike as Lyon begin to offload assets. The 24-year-old Georgian international enjoyed a breakout campaign last season, racking up an impressive 17 goals and 11 assists in all competitions. Given his age, form, and international pedigree, it is highly unlikely he would be willing to continue in Ligue 2.
Tottenham’s interest makes strategic sense. Although they currently have attacking options like Dominic Solanke in their ranks, concerns remain regarding his consistency and fitness record. Bringing in Mikautadze would offer not just depth but also a dynamic and proven goal threat — something Thomas Frank would surely welcome as he prepares for his debut season at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Lyon’s current financial state means they hold very little power in negotiations, and clubs across Europe are circling in hopes of snapping up quality players for discounted fees. For Spurs, this represents a golden opportunity. Mikautadze’s market valuation currently sits at €22 million according to Transfermarkt, but Lyon’s desperation could see that figure significantly reduced.
With the summer transfer window heating up and the Georgian star unlikely to be short of suitors, Tottenham may need to act swiftly to secure his signature. If they do, it could prove to be one of the shrewdest pieces of business of the summer — a high-potential attacker acquired at a cut-rate price, precisely when Spurs are looking to step up their ambitions both domestically and in Europe.