Middlesbrough close in on Will Lankshear from Tottenham Hotspur

Middlesbrough are moving decisively in the race for Tottenham Hotspur striker Will Lankshear, with the Championship club now appearing best placed to secure his signature, according to reports.

The 19-year-old forward is reportedly on the verge of a £10m move to the Riverside Stadium, as Spurs look to offload fringe players this summer.

Background on Lankshear's development

Lankshear joined Tottenham from Sheffield United in 2022 and has been highly rated within the club's academy, impressing at under-21 level. However, with the first-team options ahead of him including Son Heung-min, Richarlison and new signing from Bournemouth, Dominic Solanke, regular minutes at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium have been scarce.

The young striker enjoyed a productive loan spell at League One side MK Dons last season, where he scored 5 goals in 18 appearances, showcasing his physicality and finishing ability. His performances attracted interest from several Championship sides this window.

What this means for Middlesbrough and Tottenham

For Michael Carrick's Middlesbrough, the acquisition of Lankshear represents a continued investment in young talent as they push for promotion back to the Premier League. Boro currently sit 7th in the Championship, just three points outside the play-off places, and adding a proven goal-scorer at youth level could strengthen their attacking depth.

Tottenham, meanwhile, are streamlining their squad under Ange Postecoglou. The Australian manager has prioritised a smaller, more cohesive group for his high-pressing, attacking system. Lankshear's departure frees up wages and potentially raises funds for further incomings, with Spurs still linked to a new winger and cover in central defence.

  • Lankshear has represented England at youth international levels, ranging from under-16 to under-19.
  • His style of play is characterised by strong hold-up play and a keen eye for goal, similar to Harry Kane – a trait that initially attracted Tottenham.
  • The £10m fee could include add-ons based on appearances and promotion clauses, according to sources.

Looking ahead

Personal terms with Middlesbrough are not expected to be a stumbling block, and a medical could be completed within the next 48 hours. For Lankshear, a move to the Championship offers the chance for regular first-team football at a critical stage in his development. For Spurs, it represents a sensible sale of an academy asset who was unlikely to break into the starting eleven imminently. Middlesbrough fans will hope he can provide the cutting edge needed to secure a top-six finish.

Filed under: Transfer News | LA Premier League Home