Tottenham are weighing up a long list of options to bolster their forward line, and are pivoting from priority target Eli Junior Kroupi.
Bournemouth's valution was lofty for a player who shone during his debut Premier League season last time out, but Spurs were seemingly ready to test the Cherries' resolve after completing a few sales.
However, the club's dream of landing the French U21 international was dashed by news that he'll be undergoing foot surgery, keeping him sidelined for at least three months. It pretty much rules out any club making a move for him this summer, with suitors poised to re-emerge in 12 months time.
So, where to next for Spurs?
After an early splurge, supporters are growing restless. Our attack at the start of preseason has been brightened up by Mathys Tel and 17-year-old Luca Williams-Barnett, but boy, do we need more firepower.
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The Savinho saga has long entered its tedious phase, so much so that I'm utterly indifferent as to whether he signs or not. I just want a resolution either way.
Still, even if the Brazilian eventually signs. He doesn't solve our centre-forward issue.
Dominic Solanke and Richarlison remain the two names atop the depth chart. Both are useful in their own ways, with the former far more reliable technically but the latter boasting a superior nose for goal. It's their respective flakiness that concerns me. The pair are good for a couple of injuries a season, and, to be honest, I've grown tired of watching Richarlison chase his first touch.
I think we should be keeping Solanke and selling Richarlison, opening the door for a new arrival to compete with the Englishman for the starting role. With Kroupi off the table, insider ’Szy’ has suggested that Ollie Watkins and Igor Thiago are being considered by the club.
It certainly continues the theme of exclusively signing players with Premier League experience. All six of Spurs' summer additions so far have joined from Premier League clubs, and the overwhelming majority of those we've been linked are currently plying their trade in the English top-flight, including the likes of Cody Gakpo and Omar Marmoush.
This is by design, with the club believing that such experience mitigates risk and offers more of a guarantee.
As for Watkins and Thiago... meh. Upgrades on Richarlison? Yes. Do they reinvent the wheel? No. I'm not overly enthused, but I've always loved Watkins' willingness to run in behind, and his capacity to score from tight angles. Thiago I'm less convinced by.
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