Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly identified Stuttgart forward Sasa Kalajdzic as a potential summer transfer target.
Twelve months ago, Spurs were having to contemplate potential replacements for Harry Kane, the long-serving club legend being open to new challenges elsewhere.
However, the stance of the England international has now changed, the player now fully invested in Antonio Conte's project at the North London outfit courtesy of their Champions League qualification.
Spurs are not necessarily short of alternatives to Kane with Son Heung-min and Lucas Moura both capable of playing down the middle of the attack in his absence.
Nevertheless, it has been claimed that Conte would prefer another fresh face for his forward line, boosting his options ahead of a busier campaign.
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According to Bild, Spurs are admirers of Kalajdzic and may be prepared to make an approach for the Austria international over the coming weeks.
In a season affected by injury and illness, the 24-year-old contributed six goals from 15 appearances in the Bundesliga during 2022-23.
However, he has 23 strikes from 54 league outings since his arrival in 2019, and the target man will not be short of interest during the current transfer window.
In recent weeks, Bayern Munich have been linked with Kalajdzic at a time when they may have to replace Robert Lewandowski, while Manchester United have also been suggested as a potential destination.
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Despite his value to Stuttgart, the player has just one year left on his contract, increasing the chances of a switch to a club with a higher profile.
Should Spurs not pursue a deal for Kalajdzic, Conte may instruct club officials to try to beat Arsenal in the race to sign Manchester City forward Gabriel Jesus.
Reports had indicated that the Gunners were prioritising a move for the Brazil international, but it emerged on Monday that Leeds United playmaker Raphinha was also on their radar.
As it stands, spending in excess of £100m on the pair appears unlikely, and Spurs may be ready to jump at the opportunity to put together a proposal for Jesus earlier than initially planned.
Spurs have already signed Fraser Forster, Yves Bissouma and Ivan Perisic since the end of last season.
Darren Plant
