Tottenham move for €28m forward as Richarlison exit edges closer | OneFootball

Guessand Could Be the Wildcard Spurs Need as Levy Plots Summer Reset

Versatile Forward in Levy’s Sights as Spurs Reassess Their Attack

Evann Guessand is not a household name, nor is he the kind of player likely to shift shirt units in Seoul or Singapore. But in a summer where Tottenham Hotspur must rediscover both efficiency and intent, the Nice forward offers something far more vital — positional flexibility, a reasonable price, and the hunger of a footballer who wants more.

Photo: IMAGO

According to Fratmat, Tottenham have reignited their pursuit of the 23-year-old after failing to land him in January. That move, once stalled by reluctance and redirected toward a temporary deal for Bayern’s Mathys Tel, now seems not just likely but logical. The Nice striker recorded 13 goals and 10 assists in 42 appearances this season. He played across the front line — 13 times through the middle, six on the left, but most commonly on the right. Versatility may be cliché in scouting reports, but at £24 million, it is suddenly a bargain.

Photo IMAGO

Guessand, described as “tall, strong, technical and extremely fast,” fits neatly into Daniel Levy’s transfer playbook. He is affordable, adaptable and unpolished enough to be developed rather than indulged. Spurs, who once defined themselves by their scrappiness and savvy, have spent recent windows chasing marquee names only to be left with misfiring ones.

Richarlison Exit Looms, Solanke Needs Support

Richarlison’s time in north London has played out like a drawn-out apology. Signed to make a statement, he leaves behind more headlines than highlights. With Saudi interest reportedly mounting, Spurs look ready to offload their Brazilian enigma and in Guessand may already have his replacement lined up.

Photo IMAGO

Dominic Solanke, for his part, has earned goodwill through effort, if not consistency. His 16 goals and eight assists are respectable, particularly given his injury record. But Spurs’ front line remains an unsolved puzzle. Brennan Johnson led the way with 18 goals but lacks the power or physicality to consistently dominate. Son Heung-min’s waning speed only amplifies the need for something new.

Photo IMAGO

Guessand, then, is not Plan B. He’s part of a Plan A that finally acknowledges Spurs’ current reality — a squad good enough to finish fifth, but nowhere near equipped to challenge for trophies.

Strategic Move or Levy Classic?

At €28m, Guessand is not a risk-free punt, but he is what Tottenham have traditionally done well. The Ivory Coast international wants a new adventure. Spurs want renewed purpose. With no guarantee Postecoglou will stay beyond this window, the club must build a squad not just in his image but one capable of evolving.

Photo IMAGO

Levy’s fingerprints are all over this deal: modest fee, player on the up, deal done quietly and early. The real question is whether it’s a vision Spurs stick with or another fleeting flirtation with potential that never fully blossoms.

Statistical Analysis by EPL Index

Output in Attacking Metrics

Evann Guessand’s radar chart, courtesy of Fbref, highlights a forward with real efficiency in the final third. With non-penalty goals (84th percentile), non-penalty expected goals (82), and expected assisted goals (71), Guessand’s attacking numbers paint the picture of a player who consistently gets into dangerous positions and, more importantly, makes those chances count. His combined xG+xAG ranks in the 72nd percentile, reinforcing his dual threat both as a scorer and a creator.

Defensive Workrate Stands Out

Where Guessand truly deviates from the stereotype of a flair-forward is in his defensive application. Ranking in the 79th percentile for tackles and interceptions (Tkl+Int), 72nd for dribblers tackled, and 66th for clearances, the Nice forward shows a tenacity that will appeal to high-pressing systems. It’s an indication of a modern attacker willing to track back, press, and put in the work off the ball — something not always evident in wide forwards.

Room for Growth in Possession

While Guessand shines in front of goal and off the ball, his possession metrics are less striking. Pass completion (2nd percentile), passes attempted (25), and shot-creating actions (29) suggest he’s not yet a central figure in buildup play. However, his progressive passes received (70) indicate he’s a target rather than a distributor, hinting at how he fits tactically — more end-point than playmaker.

In all, Evann Guessand’s performance data and stats offer an intriguing profile: a direct, hard-working forward with sharp finishing and defensive commitment, but still with development needed in link-up and retention. For clubs like Tottenham, seeking energy and goals in wide areas, Guessand may offer more than just raw speed — he offers balance.