What lies ahead for Tottenham’s Clinton Njie?
Tottenham’s Clinton Njie
According to a report in Daily Mirror, Tottenham are eyeing a speedy winger as they pursue a third summer signing.
The plan to become more expansive and get the best out of Harry Kane and Vincent Janssen is clear, but this is a decision head coach Mauricio Pochettino actually made last summer.
Tottenham spent £12 million on the signing of Clinton Njie from Lyon, who The Mirror described at the time as possessing ‘lightening pace and natural finishing ability’.
Tottenham’s Clinton Njie sat in the stands
Unfortunately Spurs barely saw it in his debut season, with Njie arriving in late August and lacking the fitness of his teammates who had benefited from a rigorous pre-season.
Then in December he picked up a knee injury which kept him out of action until April.
Pochettino’s desire to still add a winger would appear to signify that he is not ready to gamble on Njie alone to fulfil his requirements, and wants reinforcements.
Tottenham’s Clinton Njie during training
The big question is, where this would leave Njie? With a pre-season behind him, he could make the leap and surprise his doubters.
Yet Pochettino has demonstrated he is prepared to be ruthless with his signings if he is not convinced, with Benjamin Stambouli sold after just 12 months, and Federico Fazio getting just one season before being left out of the team altogether for the following campaign.
Benjamin Stambouli was sold after just one season
With Spurs linked with Lille’s in demand attacker Sofiane Boufal, an option could be to offer Njie in part exchange, permanently or on a season’s loan.
This would be a shame for the player, who is just 22, and could really develop if given the same time Erik Lamela has been, with the Argentine kicking on during his third season at the club.
Nacer Chadli is a contender to be sold, which would strengthen Njie’s chances of staying, but if a new winger does arrive – one way or another it poses a threat to the Cameroon star, a message he must start delivering.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
