Fresh from scoring a crucial equaliser against Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur's Mathys Tel has found himself at the centre of transfer speculation linking him with a move to Italian giants Roma.
Serie A Interest Emerges for Spurs Forward
According to reports from Metro, Serie A side Roma are preparing a January move for £31million-rated Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee. However, the Italian club has identified Tottenham's 20-year-old attacker Mathys Tel as their primary alternative should they fail to secure the Dutch international.
The report indicates that Roma will 'turn their attentions' to the French Under-21 international if they cannot strike a deal for Zirkzee, who previously impressed at Bologna and has also attracted interest from Premier League clubs West Ham United and Everton.
Tel's Eventful Start at Tottenham
Tel only completed a permanent £30m transfer from Bayern Munich this summer, following a loan spell with Spurs during the second half of last season. Despite his limited starting opportunities - having begun just three Premier League matches this campaign - the Rennes academy graduate has already made his mark with two important goals.
His most recent contribution came in dramatic fashion during Tottenham's 2-2 draw with Manchester United at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Tel came off the bench to score the equaliser just five minutes after replacing Xavi Simons, despite receiving boos from some sections of the home support when he entered the pitch.
Forward Commits to Spurs Despite Challenges
Following the mixed receptions he has received from Tottenham supporters this season, questions had emerged about whether Tel might consider a winter departure. However, the young forward appears determined to prove his worth in north London.
Speaking after his match-saving contribution against United, Tel stated: "I listened to the stadium. I was very happy because that was, I think, an important goal. That's what I try to do every day, just try to work and help the team. I'm very happy about the goal and I will every day try to help the team."
He credited his resilient mentality to his upbringing, adding: "I would say [mentality comes] from my family and where I was born. It doesn't matter what happened in your life. It doesn't matter what emotion you feel - just stay positive, try to fight every day and you will get what you want to get."
Looking ahead, Tel emphasised the team's focus: "We just want to stay positive because after the international break, we're playing again, Champions League, Premier League. We don't have time to think about something else... just make sure we're ready."
The transfer speculation emerges as Tottenham sit fifth in the Premier League table under new head coach Thomas Frank, with the club aiming to secure Champions League qualification this season. Spurs face a crucial London derby against league leaders Arsenal following the international break.
