Tottenham seek ‘massive advantage’ in transfer bidding – Exclusive
Teddy Sheringham believes Champions League qualification could be vital to who can lure in the best players this summer.
Tottenham and Manchester United go head-to-head in the Europa League final on Wednesday night, with a place in next season’s Champions League on the line.
Having played for both clubs during the late 1990s and early 2000s, Sheringham knows exactly what Champions League football means, both on and off the pitch.
Competing will be a big boost to either club, as the financial incentive is huge, especially with the other club set to miss out on European football altogether.
He claims the winner will hold a significant advantage in the transfer market because of the prestige of playing in Europe’s top competition.
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The 59-year-old is confident that whoever wins will gain a significant boost in the transfer market next summer, which could prove to be history-defining.
Speaking exclusively to Tottenham News, via Prime Casino, Sheringham said: “The attraction of playing in the Champions League has got to be seductive for any player wanting to enhance his career. So whichever club wins the Europa League will have a massive advantage in terms of the transfer market.”
Manchester United are widely regarded as a bigger club than the North London side, but Sheringham doesn’t believe that matters without European football.
“Of course, I understand the notion about Manchester United being a bigger club, but if they’re not in the Champions League and looking like they’re going to be nowhere near it, then that changes things for players,” the former Spurs and United striker added.
How Champions League football could influence Spurs’ summer transfer targets
This summer could be pivotal for Tottenham as they look to rebuild after a disappointing season, finishing 17th in the league.
It’s their worst league finish since the 1993/94 season, when they ended 15th, but qualifying for the Champions League could change everything.
Champions League football’s financial rewards and prestige could be the key to attracting the right players for next season.
Ange Postecoglou is rumoured to be leaving Tottenham regardless of Wednesday night’s result.
For the new manager, securing Champions League football will be crucial to attracting the players needed to kickstart the rebuild.
Spurs already have a strong group of young core players, and building on that foundation will help the club move in the right direction next season.
Just 90 minutes could shape Tottenham’s future for the next few years, especially as other teams strengthen around them.