Tottenham Hotspur face stiff competition from Newcastle to sign Lille star Jonathan Ikone this summer.
According to Telefoot, as relayed by Get French Football News via Ricky Sacks, Spurs have made a formal enquiry about his services, amid interest from Newcastle.
The Lilywhites have also been linked to his teammate Gabriel Magalhaes, who has attracted attention from a number of European clubs.
Ikone has been in sensational form for the Mastiffs this season, scoring three goals and supplying six assists in Ligue 1.
The versatile player can play on either flank, operate as a playmaker in the middle or line up as an centre-forward. His versatility makes him a valuable asset as he made 40 appearances in all competitions during 2019/20.
Despite his young age, the 22-year-old has already experienced playing in the Champions League, which could stand to him in the future if a transfer is made.
Jose Mourinho has his work cut out as he tries to bolster his Tottenham squad in the summer with a limited budget. He basically has to start from scratch, as he has inherited a side from his predecessor Mauricio Pochettino bereft of quality in key areas at the back (44 league goals conceded) and up front (held scoreless by 18th-placed Bournemouth yesterday).
While Ikone is clearly a talented player, he has several alarming weaknesses that he needs to work on before he makes the jump to the Premier League, including passing, crossing and the ability to hold on to the ball.
Moreover, his contract with Les Dogues is set to expire in 2023, meaning he won’t come cheap if he leaves the Stade Pierre-Mauroy this summer. He is currently valued at £32m via Transfermarkt, which is well outside of Mourinho’s price range, as Daniel Levy has made it clear he will not be spending “rivers of money” in the summer.
As it stands, it is likely that Spurs will give this one a miss when the transfer window opens, as they arguably have bigger issues to address at the back.
Tottenham fans, should Daniel Levy sign Jonathan Ikone in the summer? Let us know in the comments below!