Roberto De Zerbi Pushes for Deal as Tottenham Reach Final Verdict on ‘Powerful’ Striker

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly turned down three separate approaches for promising striker Will Lankshear, according to football.london.

The 21-year-old caught the eye during his loan spell at Oxford United last season, scoring 11 goals despite the club’s relegation from the Championship. His performances have attracted interest from several clubs, including Sporting CP, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Southampton, but Spurs have rejected each proposal.

Lankshear’s future remains undecided, with Tottenham expected to assess him during pre-season before making a final decision. Roberto De Zerbi is keen to evaluate the young forward personally before determining whether he stays, heads out on loan again, or is made available for a permanent transfer.

The club had initially planned to send Lankshear out on another loan for the 2026/27 campaign to aid his development. However, after his impressive spell at Oxford, Tottenham are now considering keeping him in the first-team setup. While a departure has not been ruled out, any club hoping to sign him permanently will need to meet Spurs’ valuation with a substantial offer.

Reports suggest Sporting CP, Wolves and Southampton all submitted proposals worth into the eight-figure range, but Tottenham were unwilling to sanction any of the deals.

With De Zerbi and his squad set to travel to New Zealand and Australia for their pre-season tour, the Italian coach will use the opportunity to take a closer look at Lankshear and assess his readiness for senior football.

Lankshear’s future could also hinge on Tottenham’s search for another striker. De Zerbi is eager to add a new No. 9 this summer, particularly with Richarlison entering the final year of his contract.

Bournemouth forward Eli Junior Kroupi remains Tottenham’s leading target, but his potential arrival could complicate Lankshear’s pathway into the first team. If Spurs succeed in signing Kroupi, they may be forced to reassess their current stance after rejecting multiple offers for one of the club’s brightest young talents.