Tottenham Hotspur are eyeing wide forward reinforcements this summer, but with their top target potentially heading to Manchester United, a backup plan could prove essential. Here are five alternative wide forwards the Lilywhites could target if they fail to land Mbeumo.
It was exclusively revealed by Spurs Web that Tottenham Hotspur are in active search of a wide forward, despite completing the permanent signing of Mathys Tel on a six-year deal.
The Lilywhites could be without Heung-min Son before the start of the season, as strong reports are linking Son with a move to clubs in the Middle East, and even a potential reunion with Jose Mourinho.
However, Tottenham have identified Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo as a key target since the appointment of Thomas Frank as head coach, but they face stiff competition from Manchester United, who are reported to be in pole position to land the Brentford star.
While Spurs are trying to hijack the deal, it very well could fail, as some reports claim that Mbeumo only wants Manchester United.
Of course, Eberechi Eze has emerged as another option for Tottenham, although it remains to be seen whether Thomas Frank sees him as a winger or more of a creative midfielder.
We have now put together a list of five alternatives the Lilywhites could consider if a move for Mbeumo fails.
Antoine Semenyo emerges as preferred Tottenham option
Reports linking Spurs with a move for Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo have only increased in recent weeks, as it is claimed that Tottenham are big admirers of the 25-year-old.
It was suggested some time ago that Spurs were stepping up their pursuit of Semenyo this summer, with further reports indicating that the Lilywhites have done the most groundwork on the Ghanaian international.
However, Tottenham’s move for Semenyo hit a snag when it emerged they would have to smash their record transfer fee to bring him in.
Antoine Semenyo is seen as a player who could be a perfect alternative to Mbeumo, boasting Premier League experience and the versatility to play on either flank.
He also reached double figures in goals last season, scoring 11 – although Mbeumo still bettered him by nine.
Antoine Semenyo Stats (Premier League 2024-25)
Appearances: 37
Goals: 11
Expected goals (xG): 9.98
Scoring frequency: 292min
Assists: 5
Big chances created: 11
Successful dribbles: 1.9 (55%)
While those numbers are not particularly eye-catching, they remain respectable for a winger still settling in English football. Yet, Tottenham are reportedly not keen on paying the £65 million, plus potential add-ons, that Bournemouth are demanding.
Tyler Dibling is a youthful option for Spurs wide forward role
Tyler Dibling is a younger alternative to Mbeumo, and one that might not provide the immediate impact the Cameroonian offers, given his haul of 20 goals last season.
The Southampton man, who could cost £45 million this summer, does not come close to those numbers, having managed just two goals and one assist from 33 appearances last season.
He is unlikely to be seen as the ideal replacement by many Tottenham supporters, who would prefer a proven winger at the top level.
Nonetheless, his potential continues to keep him on Spurs’ radar, with interest going as far back as the winter window, during which Tottenham even tabled a bid for Dibling.
Jack Grealish considered as experienced wide forward option
Another player Tottenham could turn to is one they have long admired – Jack Grealish. The Manchester City winger is reportedly out of favour in Manchester and could be available at a cut-price £50 million this summer.
The England international had a disappointing campaign, registering just one goal and a single assist in the 715 minutes he played in the Premier League.
Jack Grealish Stats (Premier League 2024-25)
Appearances: 20
Goals: 1
Expected goals (xG): 1.13
Scoring frequency: 735min
Assists: 1
Big chances created: 2
Successful dribbles: 0.7 (59%)
Despite that, Grealish brings with him a wealth of experience, particularly in the Champions League and Premier League.
Tottenham could benefit from that experience, especially as they return to Europe’s top competition next season. Grealish, should he be signed, would arrive with three Premier League titles and a Champions League winners’ medal to his name.
Yoane Wissa could reunite with Frank at Tottenham
One of Bryan Mbeumo’s biggest assets is his goalscoring ability from out wide – something that most of the other alternatives on Tottenham’s list lack.
However, one of his Brentford teammates does have a comparable record, and that is Yoane Wissa.
The Congolese international enjoyed his best season to date last term, scoring 19 goals in 35 appearances – just one fewer than Mbeumo, who played three more games.
Statistically, Wissa makes sense as a direct alternative to Mbeumo, and a reunion with Thomas Frank, who brought the best out of him last season, would add further appeal.
Although he is capable of playing across the frontline, the one potential downside is his age – the forward is currently 28. Spurs have been linked with Wissa, and he would certainly represent a cheaper option than most of the other names mentioned.
Timothy Weah offers versatility and European experience
Tottenham have been linked with a move for Timothy Weah this summer, and with the Juventus man carrying a TransferMarkt valuation of around £14.5 million, he could be a smart addition.
The son of former Ballon d’Or winner George Weah is versatile enough to play in a range of positions, including as a full-back.
Last season, he produced 11 goal contributions across all competitions for Juventus. Like Grealish, Weah also offers Champions League experience, which could prove valuable for Spurs next season.
However, the key concern is how he would adapt to the Premier League, as he is yet to play in England’s top flight.
