Tottenham are said to be “on a mission” to track a highly rated young forward who could become the club’s most expensive signing ever after failing to land Antoine Semenyo, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Spurs had long been interested in the Bournemouth winger, both last summer and ahead of January, with David Ornstein reporting that Tottenham tabled a lucrative contract proposal to the Ghanaian. Semenyo, however, turned down the offer, paving the way for Manchester City and Manchester United to emerge as leading contenders for his signature.
The 24-year-old has drawn heavy interest from across the Premier League’s top clubs after a blistering start to the campaign, netting eight goals in 16 league games. Manchester City are now viewed as favourites, with their ability to move quickly in January matching the player’s ambitions. Pep Guardiola has publicly lauded Semenyo, hailing his energy, confidence, movement and continual development.
With Semenyo no longer in the picture, Tottenham have shifted focus as they look to bolster Thomas Frank’s attacking options. Romano reports that Spurs are closely following RB Leipzig teenager Yan Diomande, who is currently featuring for Ivory Coast at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The 19-year-old completed the full 90 minutes in his nation’s opening game against Mozambique and is tipped to be one of the tournament’s breakout stars. Diomande, who can play on either wing, is believed to be valued at over £87 million — a figure that would eclipse Tottenham’s current transfer record.
- Diomande has impressed for Leipzig this season, scoring seven goals and providing four assists in 16 outings, including a hat-trick in a 6–0 win over Eintracht Frankfurt. The Bundesliga’s official website has praised his blistering pace and close control, likening him to Borussia Dortmund and Germany forward Karim Adeyemi.
