Tottenham reject three approaches for Will Lankshear

Tottenham Hotspur have turned down three separate bids for forward Will Lankshear, with Sporting CP, Wolverhampton Wanderers and an unnamed third club all making their interest known. The North London club are holding firm on their valuation of the young striker, who has impressed in their academy setup.

According to reports, Spurs have made their position clear on Lankshear, rejecting each approach as they consider his long-term role in the first team. The 19-year-old has yet to make a senior Premier League appearance this season but is highly regarded within the club’s development structure.

Background: Lankshear’s rise through the ranks

Lankshear joined Tottenham from Sheffield United’s youth system in 2022 and quickly established himself as a prolific scorer at U21 level. He netted 15 goals in 20 Premier League 2 appearances last campaign, earning a call-up to the first-team bench on several occasions under Ange Postecoglou. His physical presence and clinical finishing have drawn comparisons to Harry Kane at a similar age, though he remains raw and untested at the top level.

Despite his inexperience, Lankshear’s potential has attracted attention from across Europe. Sporting CP, known for developing young talent, saw him as a long-term replacement for Viktor Gyökeres. Wolverhampton Wanderers, meanwhile, are searching for added depth in attack after struggling for goals this season, with only 28 goals scored in 29 league matches.

De Zerbi’s striker dilemma

The rejection comes as Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi weighs his options at centre-forward. Brighton have been linked with a move for Lankshear, though no formal bid has been reported. De Zerbi typically prefers a fluid front three, but with Evan Ferguson inconsistent and Danny Welbeck turning 34 this year, the Seagulls are in the market for a young striker to develop. Lankshear would fit the profile of a high-potential forward who could learn under De Zerbi’s tactical system.

  • Lankshear has scored 8 goals in 12 appearances for Tottenham’s U21 side this season
  • Spurs are holding out for a fee in the region of £10-15 million, according to sources
  • Brighton have scouted Lankshear on multiple occasions this term

What next for Tottenham and Lankshear?

Tottenham are likely to offer Lankshear a new contract to protect his value, with his current deal running until 2026. A loan move in the summer could provide the game time he needs to develop, but only if an acceptable bid arrives. For now, Lankshear remains a Tottenham player, with Postecoglou keen to assess him in pre-season before making a final decision.

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