Middlesbrough are in advanced talks to sign Tottenham Hotspur's Will Lankshear, according to reliable reporter Alasdair Gold. The Championship club, currently sitting 5th in the table with 80 points from 46 games, are looking to strengthen their attack ahead of the new season after scoring 72 goals and conceding 47 this term.
Who is Will Lankshear?
The 20-year-old forward won Oxford United's Golden Boot and Young Player of the Year last season while on loan from Tottenham. His impressive form has caught the eye of Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick, who sees him as a potential solution to their striker shortage.
Why is this deal important?
Middlesbrough narrowly missed out on promotion last season, finishing 15 points behind leaders Coventry City. With their recent form showing LLDDW, Carrick is keen to add firepower to his squad. Lankshear's arrival could provide the goals needed to challenge for automatic promotion next season.
What's next for Middlesbrough?
The club's next fixture is at home against Stoke City on 17 February 2027. If the deal for Lankshear goes through, he could be in line to make his debut in that match. Meanwhile, Tottenham are reportedly looking to include a sell-on clause or buyback option in any deal, showing their continued interest in the young striker's development.
Tottenham's youth development strategy
This potential transfer highlights Tottenham's approach to youth development. While they've invested heavily in senior players this summer, they're also willing to let young talents like Lankshear gain first-team experience elsewhere. The club has already sold Luka Vuskovic to Brighton and seen Tynan Thompson join Manchester United, with Lucas Bergvall also linked with a move away.
