adminCarlton Cole and Adam Catterall believe Tottenham Hotspur are only one world-class striker away from transforming themselves into genuine Premier League title contenders under Roberto De Zerbi, despite an already impressive summer rebuild.
Spurs have been among the busiest clubs in the transfer market, investing close to £250 million as they reshape the squad ahead of the new campaign. Seven new arrivals have already strengthened the defence and midfield, but the attacking department is still viewed as the area most in need of improvement.
Tottenham narrowly avoided relegation on the final day of the 2025/26 season, with Richarlison finishing as the club’s leading scorer after managing just 12 goals across all competitions.
Alongside Dominic Solanke, the Brazilian is expected to shoulder the goalscoring responsibility, although doubts remain over whether either forward can consistently produce the numbers needed to compete at the top.
Another concern is Tottenham’s recent history of losing their most prolific attackers. Before last season, the club had already seen each of their previous three leading scorers depart, including Harry Kane, Son Heung-min and Brennan Johnson.
Speaking on talkSPORT, presenter Adam Catterall questioned where Spurs’ goals would come from despite their significant investment elsewhere in the squad. Former Chelsea and West Ham striker Carlton Cole agreed, insisting the club require a proven striker capable of delivering at least 20 league goals every season.
Cole suggested established finishers such as Ivan Toney or even a sensational return for Harry Kane would instantly elevate Tottenham’s ambitions. Catterall went even further, arguing that Kane’s return would transform Spurs from top-six hopefuls into genuine top-four contenders with the potential to challenge for the Premier League title.
Cole admitted Richarlison has yet to demonstrate the consistency required to reach that level but maintained faith in Solanke, believing injuries have prevented the striker from showcasing his full potential. According to the former England international, a sustained run of fitness could allow Solanke to become the reliable goalscorer Tottenham need.
He also highlighted the importance of James Maddison’s return from injury, adding that Spurs should benefit significantly from the number of key players expected to be available again. Combined with what he described as strong recruitment during the transfer window, Cole believes Tottenham are moving firmly in the right direction.
As for potential additions, Roberto De Zerbi is reportedly prioritising a left-sided attacker. Manchester City winger Savinho remains a leading target after being admired by Tottenham for some time, while Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo has also been linked with a move to north London.
Savinho is considered the more realistic option, although Manchester City would likely seek a replacement before sanctioning any deal, with Chelsea’s Pedro Neto reportedly among the players on their radar.
Meanwhile, speculation surrounding Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson has emerged in recent weeks, but current reports suggest Tottenham are not expected to pursue a move for the Senegal international at this stage.
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