Signing a striker in January is notoriously challenging, especially at the right price, but it appears with Zlatan Ibrahimović returning to AC Milan one of their other attacking assets is going to come on the market midway through the season. The Guardian has reported that Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing Krzysztof Piatek for £30m due to an injury to Harry Kane. Meanwhile, The Sun suggested that Newcastle United are also interested in the Polish striker, and Sky Italia have linked Aston Villa, but for a £25m fee. Regardless of the price, which Premier League destination would suit the poacher most?
Replacing Kane at Spurs is a near-impossible job. The local lad has been their top scorer for the past five seasons running and is Tottenham’s top scorer in Premier League history by a massive 33 goal margin. Back-ups such as Vincent Janssen have been trialled in the past, but it is difficult to entice a player who knows they will be number two. That is where Piatek comes in. Kane may be out for a substantial period after he sustained what Jose Mourinho described as a “serious” hamstring injury, but upon the Englishman’s return, Piatek’s opportunities could be limited.
If the Polish international is willing to play for a side further down the table, he will be guaranteed game time, and one of his options is Newcastle United. The Magpies have been struggling for goals all season, despite spending £40m on Joelinton in the summer. The Brazilian forward is capable of playing behind a striker meaning there is space for both players on the field. However, the transfer fee may be a sticking point with the North-East club having already spent big before the season began.
Aston Villa is the alternative option, with Dean Smith also losing first-choice striker Wesley Moraes to a nasty injury which has cut his season short. If Piatek does not mind entering a relegation battle, then Villa could be the place for him, but the question remains what would happen if he was unable to keep them up, or who would be preferred when Wesley returns next season.
It is ultimately Piatek’s decision which destination he feels is right for him; if he doesn’t mind being second choice then Spurs would be the most enticing offer. However, for guaranteed game time, St James’ Park may be a better opportunity if Mike Ashley is prepared to part with the cash. With his time in Italy coming to an end, Piatek’s decision on where to head next could define the rest of his career.
