Tottenham make approach to sign £100,000-a-week Gakpo alternative who De Zerbi loves

Tottenham Hotspur have made initial contact about a deal for Chelsea’s Mykhailo Mudryk, who could be signed as an alternative to Liverpool star Cody Gakpo.

As we approach the final week of the summer transfer window, Tottenham have been pursuing Gakpo, with another offer in the works, although the Reds could feasibly be having second thoughts about sanctioning a sale.

The 27-year-old started the first competitive game of the Andoni Iraola era, and managed to get on the scoresheet in the 2-2 draw against Newcastle United at St. James’ Park, after scoring three goals for the Netherlands at the World Cup.

As it still remains unclear whether Spurs will be able to sign Gakpo, Mudryk has now been identified as an alternative option, with Roberto De Zerbi a big fan of the winger, having spent time working with him at Shakhtar Donetsk.

After it emerged the Ukrainian’s doping ban had been lifted, De Zerbi said: “He’s my son, he’s a cool guy, a top player, hopefully he can show what he suffered the last two seasons in this coming season, maybe not against Tottenham, but he’s a lovely guy.”

The £100,000-a-week winger’s career has been significantly impacted by the ban, as he hasn’t played a competitive game for nearly two years, although he didn’t exactly set the world alight for the Blues beforehand.

The 25-year-old collected five goals and six assists in 53 Premier League matches for Chelsea, and the west Londoners are now willing to consider sending him out on loan, but a move to Leeds United is no longer being considered, clearing Spurs’ path somewhat.

REUTERS/Tyrone Siu

Football FanCast sources understand Tottenham Hotspur have now submitted an initial enquiry regarding a deal for Mudryk, who is being considered a back-up option for Gakpo.

However, with the Blues keen to make sure the 28-cap Ukraine international receives consistent game time, should they decide to send him out on loan, it remains to be seen whether they will allow him to join Spurs.

Mathys Tel started on the left-wing in Spurs’ opening Premier League game, a 3-0 defeat at Brentford, while Richarlison is also capable of playing in that area, although his primary position is centre-forward.

Although Tel is still young at 21-years-old, the Frenchman has struggled to make an impact during his time with Spurs, scoring just four Premier League goals last season, which suggests an upgrade may be required.