According to The Athletic, Jean-Philippe Mateta’s arrival at Crystal Palace spells bad news for Tottenham-linked striker Christian Benteke.
The Frenchman’s arrival at Selhurst Park means that the Belgium international will ‘almost certainly’ leave Roy Hodgson’s side this summer.
Benteke – who has scored 75 Premier League goals – finds himself out of contract in June, and it seems Palace have no intention of renewing his terms.
Whether that will pique the interest of Jose Mourinho or not remains to be seen.
However, back in September, a report from DH stated that Tottenham were eyeing the former Liverpool striker.
DH added that Spurs had been monitoring the 30-year-old for some time.
In that respect, maybe Tottenham will act when Benteke becomes a free agent, in our view.
He would offer Mourinho bundles of Premier League experience, and would provide a decent backup to Harry Kane.
Additionally, if Carlos Vinicius fails to convince between now and June, Benteke could save Spurs millions.
The Brazilian is on a season-long loan, but Tottenham can sign him permanently in the summer for £40.38 million according to the Independent.
However, if Spurs don’t want to do that, then signing Benteke on a free wouldn’t be a bad alternative – it would certainly be cheaper.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
