Premier League giants Tottenham Hotspur are keeping tabs on Xherdan Shaqiri, who reportedly has a release clause of €12 million.
According to reports from Daily Mirror, Xherdan Shaqiri has been identified as a target for Tottenham Hotspur this summer, with Southampton also keen on acquiring his services. The Stoke City winger is destined to leave the club next month, after getting relegated to the second division this past season.
Since joining Stoke City in the summer of 2015, Shaqiri’s performances in the Premier League have been topsy-turvy. The Swiss international had a really slow start to his life in England scoring only seven goals in his first two seasons. But that being said, Shaqiri scored eight goals whilst providing seven assists as the Potters were relegated last season and his impressive performances have alerted the likes of Tottenham and Southampton.
In fact, the former Bayern Munich starlet has already declared his ambition to keep playing in the Premier League.
“It is no longer a secret that I will leave Stoke City. I think the Premier League is perfect for me. I would love to stay in England, but I do not want to rule anything out. It is the best league with the best players – simple.”, he said.
Southampton, in particular, are eager to sign the Swiss international with newly appointed head-coach playing a huge part in Shaqiri’s move to England in the first place. However, they could face stiff competition from Tottenham Hotspur, who have also shown a keen interest in the 26-year-old.
Following a rather satisfying campaign, the Lilywhites are eager to strengthen their attacking department this summer as they look to pose a strong challenge for the title next season. While the likes of Harry Kane, Christian Eriksen and Dele Alli have all done significantly well last season, the North London giants still lack some depth in the final third.
Argentine winger Erik Lamela’s career at Tottenham has been marred with injuries and his long-term future with the club is uncertain amidst Inter Milan links. New signing Lucas Moura is also yet to get his feet sorted out after moving to England earlier this year. The former Brazilian international has featured in only six Premier League games.
In addition, the highly talented Heung Min Son has also shown signs of deterioration in the second of the campaign last season, which is rather evident considering the fact that the South Korean international has scored only four goals since January.
Therefore, going after someone like Xherdan Shaqiri could be a wise move for Tottenham Hotspur. The Swiss international, despite his fair share of inconsistency, is blessed with a lot of talent and he is certainly capable of making a huge difference.
His addition to Spurs this summer will not only enhance their attack next season but will also hand manager Mauricio Pochettino with a stunning alternative in the attacking department. Following Stoke City’s relegation from the top flight last season, Xherdan Shaqiri is not expected to cost a fortune either. The 26-year-old reportedly has a release clause of €12m, which is barely a snip in today’s market.
