Tottenham Hotspur have made Fiorentina striker Dusan Vlahovic their top target for next year, as news emerges from Italy, after failing to land the 6 foot 3 colossus this summer.
The Lowdown: Linked previously to Spurs
Vlahovic, 21, was heavily linked with a transfer to the Premier League this summer with Gazzetta dello Sport reporting that Spurs were willing to fork out £60million to sign the striker.
The striker has scored 34 times in 88 appearances for the Italian side since arriving from FK Partizan Belgrade and he has got the 2021/22 campaign off to the perfect start with three goals in three games - including two in the recent 2-1 away win at Atalanta.
Vlahovic, who is valued at £36million, also attracted interest from La Liga champions Atletico Madrid.
The Latest: Spurs remain keen
According to CalcioMercato, Vlahovic is Fabio Paratici and Spurs' number one target next summer after their interest was made known for the forward already.
Fabrizio Romano claimed that Tottenham didn't actually submit a formal bid for the striker in the summer, but it is now alleged that they will re-visit the situation at the end of the season.
Fiorentina were desperate to retain the services of their striker in the previous transfer window but could face an uphill battle to keep him if Spurs or Atletico come back in for him.
The Verdict: Massive potential
The signing of Vlahovic would be a massive step forward for Nuno Espirito Santo's side, whether that be to replace Harry Kane or to provide competition for the club's record goalscorer.
One of Spurs' main problems in recent years is having no back-up to Kane, with Vinicius Junior struggling last season, so Vlahovic, who has been hailed 'incredible' by Serie A expert Conor Clancy, could provide exactly this and eventually be a replacement in the future.
Bringing Vlahovic in at such a young age and then nurturing him to be the clubs leading man in attack - when Kane is either sold or retires - looks to be a smart strategy from Paratici and co. The 21 year-old gets better every season.
In other news, Paul Scholes has made a claim about Spurs man following Palace defeat. Find out more here.