According to SIC Noticias, as cited by CM journal, Tottenham Hotspur have moved one step closer in their pursuit of Ze Luis. The FC Porto forward has been identified as the latest target for the Lilywhites, who are closely following the Portuguese league. Ze Luis could now join Spurs on a loan-deal.
Luis’ rise to prominence
Luis initially made his name at Spartak Moscow. During his four year spell in Russia, the Cape Verde forward wasn’t an ever-present figure in the Spartak attack. But, he did make 109 competitive appearances for the club, scoring 35 goals while mustering 20 assists.
His consistent performances in the Russian Premier League helped him earn a move to FC Porto in the summer, for a fee of €8.5 million. And Luis has been firing on all cylinders since, having already netted seven goals in just ten league outings.
The 28-year-old is currently the top scorer for FC Porto this season. His contributions in the attacking department have been crucial following Moussa Marega and Tiquinho Soares’ lack of productivity in the ongoing campaign. As a result, Porto have been able to pose a strong challenge to SL Benfica for the league title.
What can he bring to the table?
A centre forward by trade, Luis is primarily known for his tall 185cm frame that gives him a considerable advantage when it comes to aerial duels. The 28-year-old has notably won 2.3 headed duels per game with a success ratio of 47%., which is a decent number for a forward.
Moreover, Luis is proficient when it comes to using his physicality to hold the ball up in the final third and creating spaces for his teammates. He can also link-up with teammates – making it difficult for the defenders to keep track of the forward.
Do Tottenham Hotspur need Luis?
Tottenham Hotspur are, no doubt, in need of a new striker in this January transfer window. Harry Kane has been ruled out for some time with a fresh injury, meaning the Lilywhites lack the presence of a reliable alternative.
As a result, Jose Mourinho has been forced to deploy Lucas Moura or Son Heun-Min in a central role. Luis, in that regard, should be able to fill in for Kane’s absence, in the number nine slot. As mentioned earlier, he has the quality and characteristics to make himself an ideal fit in Mourinho’s tactical setup.
However, it remains to be seen whether or not the Cape Verde international will be able to replicate his performances in the fast-paced nature of the Premier League.
