Spurs' Hunt for Harry Kane Successor Intensifies: Exploring Ansu Fati, Brennan Johnson, and Johan Bakayoko

Tottenham are intensifying discussions regarding a potential loan move for Ansu Fati from Barcelona. However, they are also actively pursuing Nottingham Forest's Brennan Johnson and PSV Eindhoven's winger Johan Bakayoko. Spurs are aiming to secure deals for all three forward targets and will assess which one proves to be the most viable before the transfer deadline on Friday.

The club currently has three players in excess of the 25-man requirement for the Premier League squad list, making player departures their main focus. Furthermore, there are additional factors and hurdles that need to be addressed in relation to all three potential agreements for a new versatile forward.

Brennan Johnson is the primary candidate, but the consideration of spending over £40m on a player who may not immediately secure a spot in the first team is necessary.

Regarding Fati, Barcelona would only find a loan favorable from a Financial Fair Play perspective if his substantial wages are fully covered. Moreover, for a permanent agreement, they estimate his value to be approximately £30m.

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Ansu Fati expresses his reaction after failing to score for Barcelona against Cadiz. In regards to Bakayoko, PSV plans to retain him if they defeat Rangers in the second-leg play-off of the Champions League and secure a spot in the group stages.

Brentford is also competing with them for Johnson and Bakayoko, and Chelsea has been presented with an offer for Fati.

There is a significant opportunity for Spurs to sell the four or more players they require to acquire another one. Manchester United is currently in discussions for Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Genoa is actively seeking Tanguy Ndombele, Torino is making attempts to secure Japhet Tanganga, and Rennes is placing a bid for Davinson Sanchez.

Eric Dier has been offered to Bayern Munich, Sergio Reguilon also has interest from other clubs, although the future of goalkeeper Hugo Lloris remains unknown.

Man Utd chase Spurs midfielder Hojbjerg

Man Utd have reached out to Tottenham about acquiring midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, who has two years left on his contract. Tottenham would be open to letting him go if a suitable offer is presented. Additionally, Man Utd has proposed a loan deal for Chelsea's Marc Cucurella.

The 28-year-old Danish player was on the verge of signing with Atletico Madrid earlier in this transfer period. So far this season, he has only come on as a substitute in two matches for Tottenham. Interestingly, he has previously worked with Erik ten Hag, as the Dutchman was his coach during his time at Bayern Munich's reserve team back in 2013.

Analysis: Hojbjerg a strange pivot for Ten Hag

Laura Hunter stated, "At first glance, this may come as a surprising turn in the ongoing Manchester United midfield situation, but it actually aligns with Erik ten Hag's preference to collaborate with players he already knows."

Man Utd's need for another central midfielder is evident, especially with the convincing case made by Ten Hag. However, financial constraints limit their options. With three summer signings already exceeding £200m, the remaining budget is limited. Therefore, Hojbjerg may meet Man Utd's affordability requirements, but might not fulfill Ten Hag's vision for a youthful, energetic playmaker.

Ten Hag immediately targeted Frenkie de Jong last year, as he perfectly matched the desired criteria. However, acquiring him would have been considerably pricier compared to other available alternatives.

While Hojbjerg certainly brings defensive intensity and tenacity, he falls short in terms of possession skills.

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