Tottenham Hotspur were linked to a move for Jean-Philippe Mateta during the summer transfer window as they looked for options to serve as back-up to Harry Kane. Bild reported that Jose Mourinho was eyeing up the Frenchman but as were a plethora of other clubs, including Newcastle and Crystal Palace (via Tribal Football).
No move materialised for Mateta, much to the delight of Mainz who get to keep the goal-getter for another season. And what a coup they will see it as after the 23-year-old has already netted seven goals in eight Bundesliga appearances this term (via Transfermarkt).
His latest influential performance came against SC Freiburg on Sunday evening when he bagged himself a hat-trick after just 38 minutes on the pitch. Mateta could’ve scored more too, hitting the woodwork and missing two big further goalscoring opportunities (via Sofascore).
Shades of Harry Kane
The France youth international’s presence in front of goal is very similar to that of Kane’s, who is flying this season. Tottenham’s No.10 has contributed seven goals and nine assists in the Premier League alone this campaign, working wonderfully with fellow forward Son Heung-min.
Had Daniel Levy put his hand in his pocket and brought Mateta to north London, Spurs would have arguably the most clinical attacking force in the league. At just 23-years-old too, the striker has a lot of youth still in him and he could provide a fresh injection of pace alongside Kane, who isn’t particularly known for his speed.
With six goals in his last five appearances for Mainz, Mourinho will be furious that Levy didn’t act fast enough to sign Mateta. Should they decide to reignite their interest in him in January or next summer, they will likely find that his price has seriously inflated given his blistering form.
In other news, Serge Aurier impresses as Spurs thwart Man City to go top…
The post Spurs: Jean-Philippe Mateta has Mourinho green with envy following 38-minute hat-trick first appeared on FootballFanCast.com.
