According to the Southend Echo, Tottenham Hotspur were rebuffed in their attempts to sign Charlie Kelman on deadline day. Both Spurs and Sunderland wanted the Southend United striker, but their reported bids were rejected by the League One outfit, who were adamant on keeping hold of their star player.
Who is Charlie Kelman?
A product of the Southend United youth academy, Kelman was born in Basildon, Essex. Even though he represents the United States national team, he has spent his entire life in England so far. After making a mark in the youth leagues, the starlet was notably promoted to the Southend United first-team at the start of last year.
The 18-year-old appeared in ten league matches for the club, scoring just one goal, although only two of those appearances were starts. This season, however, Kelman has fared much better, with the young forward netting three goals in eight League One matches.
He also scored a brace in the first-round EFL Cup fixture against Stevenage as Southend United secured a 2-1 victory, though they were knocked out by MK Dons in the next round.
As far as his gameplay is considered, Kelman is one of the shortest strikers one could find, standing at just 1.69m. But, it allows him to retain his balance, especially when he tries to take on defenders at full speed. The youngster notably became an internet sensation when he scored in his debut and that too, from inside his own half.
However, Kelman is surely capable of providing much more than just shooting awareness. And at the age of just 18, he surely has time on his side and room to improve himself as a footballer further.
Should Tottenham keep an eye on Kelman?
Kelman certainly seems an exciting talent. His short figure, coupled with his instincts makes him a unique component in the final third, and that is why Tottenham should keep an eye on this Southend United star during the remainder of this corresponding campaign.
Tottenham missing out on Kelman in this January transfer could be a blessing disguise. Indeed, remaining at Southend should help the US youngster gain more experience in senior football, which is essential as he has only notched up just under 300 minutes of league football this season.
The ideal decision for Spurs would be to secure his services in the summer and send him back to Southend in a season-long loan deal. But on a more important note, the Lilywhites must sign a proven individual as a potential alternative for Harry Kane, who is still sidelined with an injury.
