The Tottenham Hotspur fans in the Transfer Tavern are hoping Mauricio Pochettino will finally solve the second-striker conundrum this summer, but recent reports have given them reason to believe a perfect candidate has emerged as a target for Manchester United.
According to Sky Sports journalist Luca di Marzio (via his official website), Jose Mourinho is eager to sign Mario Mandzukic from Juventus this summer to bolster his options in attack, whilst Marko Arnautovic represents an alternative to the Croatia international. West Ham’s talisman is a wide player by trade, but he adapted to a centre-forward role under David Moyes last season to devastating effect, so it’s likely Mourinho would sign him to replace Anthony Martial or provide support for Romelu Lukaku.
At the spearhead of the Hammers attack Arnautovic cut a bullish, determined figure with the finishing ability to match the power and work-rate he demonstrated throughout his build-up play. Without Arnautovic West Ham would have been staring relegation in the face, but they may be forced to tackle the new season without him if recent reports are anything to go by.
Although the report makes no reference to any interest from Tottenham, the North London club should join the race for his signature this summer, as he possesses the skill set and versatility to be a worthy understudy for Harry Kane. Arnautovic’s ability to operate across the attacking midfield three and at centre-forward would ensure that his first-team opportunities would be extensive under Pochettino, so the player should have no qualms about moving to Spurs.
The likes of Fernando Llorente and Vincent Janssen have failed to play the role of Kane’s understudy with any conviction in recent years and it’s time Pochettino resolved a nagging club issue once and for all. At the end of a season in which Arnautovic bagged 11 goals and provided 9 assists in all-competitions, there’s no doubt West Ham will be demanding a hefty price for his services, but based on the evidence of his recent form he would be well worth forking out for.
Arnautovic’s presence would add a fresh dynamic to Tottenham’s attack which has been glaringly absent in recent years, so Daniel Levy must do everything in his power to hijack United’s bid and finance a deal for his services.
Tottenham fans – thoughts? Let us know below!
