Tottenham Hotspur cannot afford to make a mistake with Mason Melia this summer.
Due to the threat of relegation, very few youth stars have been afforded a chance to showcase their worth in the Premier League.
A handful of them have spent time away on loan, while the remaining players have been forced to play in the Premier League 2.
And in regard to the latter, it certainly has its benefits for young players slowly looking to integrate into the senior fold.
However, Melia's arrival at Tottenham poses a very different scenario, which could have a very different outcome this summer.
And given the potential that he has, it certainly wouldn't be a permanent exit.
But if Tottenham are to get the best out of him in the years to come, then a loan move will be the best outcome in the summer.
| Premier League 2 | Melia |
| Games | 5 |
| Starts | 4 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Shots on target | 7 |
| Duels won | 25 |
Melia has played 95 times in senior football, albeit for St. Patrick's Athletic, and while the Premier League 2 may be a slight jump in quality from there, it still won't give him the platform he needs.
The Irish forward has already trained with Tottenham's first team, showcasing the level of faith already instilled in him.
With two goals in five appearances, he has already adapted to youth football in England, and a loan to the EFL may help him reach the next level.
Will Lankshear had an excellent campaign with Oxford in the Championship, with 11 goals in 34 starts.
Prior to that move, it was certain that he wouldn't get a look in, but that may change after the attributes he showcased in the Championship.
Melia, albeit with him being three years younger, could follow a similar path in the summer, and it may benefit all parties.