Roberto De Zerbi to Personally Evaluate Will Lankshear Ahead of Future Decisions
Roberto De Zerbi is preparing to evaluate Will Lankshear during pre-season training following the 21-year-old’s successful loan spell at Oxford United. Tottenham plans to bring the striker back to Hotspur Way before making any long-term decisions about his future, according to sources at Football Insider.
Lankshear’s performance at the Kassam Stadium has been impressive. In 47 appearances for the Championship club, the Tottenham striker netted 12 goals and provided four assists, earning both the Golden Boot and Young Player of the Year award at Oxford. His outstanding season has raised his profile significantly, attracting interest from various clubs across the English football pyramid.
Tottenham Turned Down January Bids for Lankshear
Tottenham rejected approaches from Ipswich and Middlesbrough during the January transfer window, opting to keep Lankshear at Oxford to continue his development. This decision has proven wise, but with his loan period ending, all parties must carefully contemplate the next steps.
De Zerbi’s intention to assess Lankshear personally before deciding on his future underscores his approach to squad building. The coach prefers to see players firsthand in training before determining their fit for his system. Training alongside Premier League players will be a crucial test for Lankshear as he contemplates stepping up from the Championship.
Transfer correspondent Pete O’Rourke discussed the situation on Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, stating:
“Lankshear is highly valued at Tottenham, and they believe he has a real chance of breaking through there. No decision regarding his long-term future will be made until Tottenham knows which division they will be in next season. He will return to Tottenham for pre-season, hoping to impress Roberto De Zerbi and demonstrate his abilities. However, decisions on players hinge on the club’s future league status.”
The importance of this point cannot be overstated. Every decision Tottenham makes this summer, concerning Lankshear, Vuskovic, Simons, or any squad member, depends on the outcomes of their final two Premier League fixtures. Matches against Chelsea away and Everton at home will determine their league status for the upcoming season, influencing all aspects of the club’s planning.
Leeds United and several Championship clubs are keeping an eye on Lankshear should he become available. Nevertheless, Tottenham’s intent to provide him with a genuine pre-season opportunity indicates the club’s belief in his potential future at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Whether that future lies in the Premier League or Championship will likely influence the decisions ahead.