It appears Tottenham Hotspur are not quite finished spending in the transfer market just yet. Journalist and transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has reported that Spurs have reopened talks with Leeds United to sign “speedster” Daniel James on loan. The loan could also include the option for the North London club to make the deal permanent should they wish.
Daniel James Back on Tottenham Agenda as ‘Speedster’ Could Make Loan Move
Tottenham are back in negotiations with Leeds for Daniel James. Been told talks are ongoing on loan deal with buy option — but there are also other clubs…🚨⚪️ #THFC
Up to the player, as he’s happy @ Leeds and has to decide.
No movements around Ziyech or Carrasco as of now. pic.twitter.com/IPVf4evGCJ
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 31, 2022
The Current Situation
Whilst Spurs are clearly in for the Welsh wide player it is not a given that they acquire his signature. The player is happy with his current situation at Leeds, according to Romano. James only signed for Leeds a year ago for £25 million so the proposal of a loan with only an option to buy may not be enticing enough for the 24-year-old.
What Does James Offer?
James excels at the basics of the game and this alone is what would make him a great squad player for Antonio Conte’s side. Being a great athlete and having a good eye for a cross, as demonstrated by the chaos he created for Leeds’ third goal against Chelsea, he could be the perfect player for the Italian manager.
Conte’s system would also showcase the versatility of James as whilst he would be able to play in the front three alongside Harry Kane and Heung-Min Son he could also offer cover as a right wing-back for Emerson and Djed Spence. His speed and high defensive work rate could see him occupy the right-hand side single-handedly. This could potentially allow Conte to play the more forward-thinking Richarlison as an inverted attacker.
However, as Manchester United fans know well, Daniel James is a safe winger and technically not near the best in the league. For a team like Tottenham with hopes of security in the top four and maybe for the title, it could be argued James is not a signing that pushes the needle in terms of these lofty ambitions.
Talks Ongoing
Tottenham are not the only team in for James, as Fabrizio Romano also mentions in the report. For Spurs, with deadline day looming, if the Leeds wide player is truly who they want they will need to act quickly.
Tottenham have discussed potential loan with buy option for Daniel James with Leeds last week — not an easy deal, also Everton asked for Dan. 🚨⚪️ #THFC
Situation remains open, it’s up to the player — Leeds would be happy to keep James. #LUFC pic.twitter.com/HpJovLfe2x
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 29, 2022
