Mauricio Pochettino says Tottenham need a Sadio Mane-type signing

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The pace and directness of the Liverpool forward would be welcome at Spurs.

Liverpool’s Sadio Mane in action

Mauricio Pochettino has spoken of his desire to sign a forward in the mould of Sadio Mane this week, in quotes published by the Independent.

The Liverpool attacker was a constant menace as the Reds impressed in Saturday’s draw at White Hart Lane, and Pochettino has admitted he needs to add pace to his front line.

“We need a player who is more direct, more aggressive offensively,” said the Spurs boss.

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino

“Because we have players like Eriksen, [Heung-Min] Son or Lamela who like the ball played into their feet. So we need someone who has characteristics like we saw from Liverpool, like Sadio Mané, the type of player that can break the defensive line. I’m not talking about kicking or punching someone, only running and having the right mentality.”

“We’re working very hard to try to add the right player but it’s very difficult now at the end of the market. We’ll try but if not, I’m very happy with the squad we have,” he added.

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino

Tottenham’s lack of pace was highlighted in Saturday’s clash, with the hosts unable to match Liverpool’s threat on the counter-attack, and time is running out to address the issue.

The deal to bring Marseille winger Georges-Kevin Nkoudou to the club has dragged on for over a month but the 21-year old is still expected to sign before Wednesday’s deadline.

Georges-Kevin Nkoudou at Marseille

He will add the raw pace and directness that Pochettino wants but it remains to be seen how well he adapts to the demands of the Premier League.

Wilfried Zaha is another target but Spurs have been told in no uncertain terms that the Crystal Palace winger is not for sale.

Meanwhile, reports emerged yesterday – via the likes of the Mirror – linking Real Madrid midfielder Isco with a loan switch to White Hart Lane, as the club prepares for a busy end to the transfer window.