Tottenham Blocks Solanke Exit Plans Amid Striker Shortage

On October 9, 2026, Tottenham Hotspur decided to keep Dominic Solanke for the January transfer window as manager Roberto De Zerbi continues rebuilding the squad, with the club facing limited attacking options after Richarlison’s situation.

According to Sports Mole, Tottenham plan to block any move for Solanke despite his recent struggles, while the report said the striker remains part of De Zerbi’s plans. The forward joined Spurs in 2024 and scored 16 goals in 45 appearances in his first season.

Sports Mole reported that Solanke has made two Premier League starts and three substitute appearances this season without scoring. Tottenham have scored only two league goals this campaign, increasing the pressure on the attacking department.

The report added that Tottenham’s lack of depth, worsened by Richarlison’s absence from the Premier League squad, is a major reason the club does not want to approve Solanke’s departure. Spurs are also exploring forward options, including Real Madrid attacker Endrick, while avoiding a major January striker purchase according to LiveScore.

LiveScore reported that Tottenham are prepared to allow Richarlison to leave in January and will not activate an option to extend his contract until 2028. The club has also abandoned plans for a legal or mutual termination arrangement.

Richarlison’s possible exit follows a failed summer transfer process, with Sports Mole reporting that a proposed move to Vasco da Gama collapsed over structural disagreements. Everton also approached the Brazilian forward, while Trabzonspor reached personal terms, but neither move was completed.

Sports Mole noted that Richarlison was Tottenham’s top scorer last season with 12 goals, while LiveScore reported that Spurs are considering value options rather than a high-cost striker signing during the January window.

Tottenham entered the season under pressure after five matches, with LiveScore reporting the club had spent more than £250m but remained bottom of the table after three defeats and two draws. The squad has also been affected by injuries involving Xavi Simons, Wilson Odobert, Mykhailo Mudryk, Pedro Porro and Dejan Kulusevski.