Robbie Keane: I Thought Solanke’s Transfer Fee Was Ridiculous – He Has Proved Me Wrong

Recently, when talking about Tottenham Hotspur forward Dominic Solanke, legendary player Robbie Keane admitted that he had some preconceived notions about this striker and believes that Solanke has proven his strength with goals and excellent performances.

As one of the most famous forwards in Tottenham’s history, Keane’s views represent the sentiments of many Tottenham fans, especially when compared to the former Spurs star striker Harry Kane. When Solanke joined Tottenham from Bournemouth for a transfer fee of £65 million, Keane expressed concern that Solanke’s style might clash with Son Heung-min and Maddison.

After scoring consecutive goals, Keane finally happily admitted that he was mistaken. Keane said, “From Solanke’s physical attributes, he has all the qualities necessary for success, fast, good at heading, but his transfer fee is ridiculous. I think a reasonable transfer fee would be £30 million. But in today’s era, where can you find a proven Premier League striker? So now I think it’s a good signing.”

Keane explained his previous concerns about Solanke, saying, “When playing for Bournemouth, Solanke always tended to drift out to the left flank to receive the ball, almost like Richarlison, which was my only concern. Because you are playing for Tottenham, your teammates are James (Maddison) and Son Heung-min, these players can create chances for you, so you don’t need to go to the flanks to look for opportunities. I thought Solanke needed to stay in the box to succeed at Tottenham, and the facts show that his goals for Tottenham have been easy tap-ins. He has the ability to score wonderful goals using individual skill outside the box, which doesn’t conflict, but Tottenham needs him to lead the line in the opponent’s penalty area.”

Keane believes that Solanke’s addition can make Tottenham’s attack more pressing, saying, “Solanke’s pressing has driven Werner and Johnson. I believe Postecoglou’s important reason for buying him is the contribution he makes in pressing high up the pitch. Given his style of play, I don’t doubt that he will score more goals than last season.”