It’s no secret that Tottenham are on the hunt for a centre-forward in the January transfer window, but the Lilywhites may be turning their attentions to South America if latest reports are to be believed.
According to Lyall Thomas of Sky Sports News, Tottenham’s chief scout Steve Hitchen is in Brazil and may have his eye on Inter Milan striker Gabriel Barbosa, who is currently on loan at Flamengo.
The 23-year-old has scored and created 23 goals in 20 Serie A games this season. In all competitions, Barbosa has contributed 29 goals in 30 games. The Brazilian domestic campaign finishes ahead of the January transfer window too.
Barbosa isn’t the only player to catch Hitchen’s eye, however. Spurs’ talent-spotter is said to have been impressed by Everton Soares’ performances at Gremio, so Tottenham may be open to adding a Brazilian striker to their ranks in the New Year.
After letting Vincent Janssen and Fernando Llorente leave over the summer, Spurs have left themselves short up front. Barbosa could solve their problems if he’s willing to play a secondary role to Harry Kane – he scored 43 goals in 125 games at Santos before bagging 24 in 30 at Flamengo.
The Brazilian international joined Inter in 2016 but has scored just one goal in 10 appearances, leading to him being loaned out ever since. Barbosa has returned to form, however, so Spurs should consider a punt in January.