Anglo-Nigerian striker Dominic Solanke is reportedly on the verge of joining Tottenham Hotspur. Transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano has indicated that the Bournemouth star is eager to make the move, and discussions between the two Premier League clubs are underway.
If the transfer proceeds, Solanke will be returning to London seven years after leaving his boyhood club Chelsea for Liverpool. Despite high expectations following his Golden Ball win at the 2017 FIFA U-20 World Cup, he struggled to make a significant impact at Anfield.
Tottenham Hotspur is keen to sign the one-cap England international, especially with uncertainty surrounding the future of Brazilian striker Richarlison. For the deal to materialize, Tottenham must activate the release clause in Solanke’s contract, which requires the North London club to pay Bournemouth £65 million.
Negotiations are ongoing, but they may face challenges as Bournemouth is reluctant to part with their standout player. Last season, Solanke made a notable impact in the Premier League by scoring 19 goals in 38 appearances, the highest tally by any player of Nigerian descent in Europe’s top five leagues.
Although Solanke played in Bournemouth’s first two pre-season matches against Wrexham and Arsenal, he was absent from their recent friendly against Rayo Vallecano. This absence has fueled speculation about his future at the Vitality Stadium.
Bournemouth coach Andoni Iraola, however, has stated that Solanke’s absence was not related to transfer rumors but was due to an injury. Iraola emphasized that the former England youth international missed the game against the Spanish side solely because of this reason.
Source: allnigeriasoccer.com
3
