Paper Talk: Spurs rival West Ham for African behemoth with insane record

Tottenham appear ready to beat West Ham to a giant striker with a goal-a-game record this season, Newcastle have held talks with a managerial candidate, while Thursday’s transfer gossip reveals a one-time £88m player could be the Toon’s first new signing.
SPURS FANCY PAUL ONUACAHU SIGNING
Tottenham have reportedly leaped ahead of West Ham in the race to sign Genk striker Paul Onuachu.
The 27-year-old stands at a whopping 6ft 7in and has been giving defences in Belgium’s Jupiler Pro League a torrid time. Indeed, the Nigeria striker has amassed 56 goals in 81 appearances, including 35 in all competitions last season.
As such, Onuachu has been attracting the attention of Premier League scouts, with many suggesting the striker looks well suited to the Premier League. He also has 11 goals in 11 games this season, to further his reputation.
Indeed, that chase was reportedly being led by West Ham, who had made Onuachu their No 1 target in January.
However, as per the Daily Mail, they look likely to be upsurped by Tottenham.
They claim their transfer guru Fabio Paratici is also keen on the £20m-rated hitman. As per the paper, Spurs are locking on to the striker as a possible alternative to Dusan Vlahovic.

Arsenal departure could help Spurs' pursuit of Dusan Vlahovic
A potential Arsenal departure could help Spurs in their pursuit of Fiorentina forward Dusan Vlahovic, with more news on Alexander Isak and Aurelian Tchouameni.
The Fiorentina striker looks likely to move in January too, but at £50m, there are plenty of admirers.
Failure to land the Serbian will see Spurs jump in for Onuachu, much to West Ham’s chagrin.
And a move to north London looks the most likely option, despite more interest coming from Atletico Madrid.
NEWCASTLE IN RUNNING TO SIGN OUSMANE DEMBELE
Barcelona have secured Ansu Fati’s services for the next six years with a new contract that includes a £1bn buy-out clause. (Daily Mail)
Aston Villa striker Cameron Archer has attracted the attention of Jamaica thanks to his eye-catching displays this season. (Daily Mail)
Paulo Fonseca is already in talks with Newcastle United’s board of directors about succeeding Steve Bruce as manager. (The Times)
Dominic Calvert-Lewin is being considered by Newcastle United as the first blockbuster swoop under their new Saudi Arabian ownership. (Daily Telegraph)
BUKAYO SAKA FITNESS BOOST FOR ARSENAL
Bukayo Saka is likely to play for Arsenal against Aston Villa on Friday after limping off during Monday’s 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace. (The Sun)
The European Super League is back on – with a host of new rules following an incredible backlash to the original plan earlier this year. (The Sun)
Wilfried Zaha is likely to return for Crystal Palace to face Newcastle this weekend after illness. (The Sun)
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti is reportedly planning to raid Tottenham by triggering Sergio Reguilon’s buy-back clause. (Daily Mirror)
AND MORE TRANSFER GOSSIP
Thomas Tuchel admits Chelsea have interest in Borussia Dortmund superstar Erling Haaland next summer. (Daily Mail)
Bruno Fernandes reportedly considered asking to leave Manchester United following news they hoped to sign up to the proposed European Super League. (Daily Mail)
Steven Gerrard should jump at the chance to join Newcastle United if he’s offered the job. That’s according to Jose Enrique, who claims the Magpies are a big upgrade on Rangers. (The Scottish Sun)
Alfredo Morelos insists the love of Rangers supporters could keep him at Ibrox “for years to come”. (Daily Record)