Tottenham Hotspur could be keen to reunite Arne Slot with Feyenoord striker Santiago Gimenez if they appoint the Dutchman as their next head coach, per a report.
Slot is currently the favourite to take the Tottenham job after leading Feyenoord to the Eredivisie title. He would be taking the reins from Ryan Mason, who has been handling first-team affairs since the dismissal of Cristian Stellini, who was Antonio Conte’s assistant.
There have been fears that Tottenham would be facing another long-drawn managerial search. However, optimism is now growing on the Slot front. Some sources even believe he could be appointed this week.
Then, Spurs can turn their attention to planning their squad for what would be Slot’s first season in English football. In terms of transfer targets, two Feyenoord players could follow him to north London.
Interest in the Dutch champions’ captain, Orkun Kokcu, has already been revealed. Online outlet 90min has verified the link, claiming Spurs wanted him even before focusing on Slot.
And according to the report, the midfielder has been joined on Spurs’ shortlist by striker teammate, Santiago Gimenez.
The Mexico international has thoroughly enjoyed his first season in European football. His 23 goals from 44 appearances have caught the attention of plenty of Premier League clubs.
Aston Villa have appeared to be one of the main candidates to sign Gimenez this summer. According to the report, their interest is genuine and Brentford, Crystal Palace, Eintracht Frankfurt, Leicester City, Lille and Napoli are also keen.
Other sources have suggested a move to Man Utd might be possible, but 90min does not mention Erik ten Hag’s team.
Tottenham now in Santiago Gimenez race
But Tottenham have also become contenders to sign the 22-year-old. Whether they view him as a replacement for Harry Kane or someone who could be a more reliable deputy for him than Richarlison isn’t specified in the report.
Either way, bringing in a player who has surpassed the 20-goal landmark in his first season in Europe should ease any concerns Tottenham have about their attack – as long as he can translate his talents to the Premier League, of course.
Feyenoord have Gimenez under contract until 2026. Some of his suitors actually believe he would be better off developing throughout a second season with Feyenoord.
However, the situation could change quickly. Slot’s potential departure from the Rotterdam club could affect how Gimenez’s second season there would go anyway.
No asking price for Gimenez has yet been revealed, nor have any official offers been made to Feyenoord.
Meanwhile, Kane continues to face an uncertain future with Tottenham. The club’s all-time leading goalscorer is approaching the final year of his contract and has been linked with a move to Man Utd, where he might have a better chance of winning trophies.
