Tottenham Hotspur have identified Brentford's dynamic attacker Kevin Schade as a prime target to fill the void left by Brennan Johnson's departure this month, according to fresh reports. Spurs are said to be preparing a significant bid for the German international, who has been a revelation in the Premier League this season.
Spurs' Pressing Need for Reinforcements
The North London club's decision to sell Brennan Johnson has left manager Thomas Frank with a shortage of proven attacking options, particularly with Dejan Kulusevski still injured. Tottenham's form has dipped alarmingly, seeing them slide to 14th in the table, making the January window critical for their hopes of salvaging the campaign. While Johnson was not at his peak, his exit has exacerbated a lack of creativity and goals in the squad.
This has pushed the club's hierarchy into the market for a direct replacement, a challenging task mid-season. January is notoriously an expensive time to buy, especially for attacking talent, but indications are that Spurs are ready to commit substantial funds to secure their man.
The £51m Schade Profile
The man in their sights is 24-year-old Kevin Schade. The Brentford forward has enjoyed a standout season, contributing six goals and three assists in the Premier League, including a recent hat-trick in a 4-1 win over AFC Bournemouth. His market value has soared accordingly, with Sky Germany reporting that the Bees will demand a fee in the region of £51 million for his services.
Brentford's own impressive rise to fifth place makes them reluctant sellers, with Schade central to their success. However, the profile of the player fits what Tottenham desperately need. Schade is a proven Premier League performer, possesses significant versatility across the front line, and combines his goal threat with a relentless work ethic. His former Brentford boss, and current Tottenham manager Thomas Frank, knows his qualities intimately from their time together in West London.
Praise for a 'Transformed' Talent
Schade's development has drawn significant praise. After his match-winning display against Bournemouth, Bees coach Keith Andrews highlighted his all-round contribution: "He works tirelessly for the team... It's an attribute that we insist on. He's a constant threat." Andrews also praised the completeness of his hat-trick, scored with his right foot, left foot, and a header.
This sentiment of a player coming into his own was echoed earlier this year by BBC Match of the Day commentator Tom Gayle, who described Schade as one of the league's "most transformed players" in terms of end product. Gayle noted: "He can play anywhere across the frontline and works tirelessly off the ball, which is essential for the Brentford high press."
For Tottenham, securing a player of Schade's calibre, versatility, and known quantity to the manager represents a logical, if expensive, solution to their immediate attacking crisis. The coming weeks will reveal if they are willing to meet Brentford's steep valuation to get the deal done.
