Middlesbrough look set to complete the signing of Will Lankshear from Tottenham Hotspur in a transfer that could reach £20 million, bringing a highly rated young striker to the Riverside.
Deal structure and what is known
Sources indicate the agreement would see an initial fee of £10m paid to Spurs, with a further £10m payable through performance-related add-ons. Personal terms have not yet been finalised, but the clubs expect to conclude the transfer this week before Tottenham depart on a pre-season tour to New Zealand and Australia.
| Element | Detail |
|---|---|
| Player | Will Lankshear, 21 |
| Previous season | Loan to Oxford — 12 goals in 47 appearances |
| Fee | £10m initial; up to £10m in add-ons (total £20m) |
| Contract details | Personal terms outstanding; sell-on clause and matching rights expected |
Why the move matters to Middlesbrough
The addition of Lankshear would strengthen Middlesbrough’s attacking options following their run to the Championship play-off final last season. Manager Kim Hellberg had attempted to bring the forward to Teesside in January, and a completed deal would be one of the club’s most notable summer investments.
- Proven recent form: Lankshear scored 12 times while on loan at Oxford in 2025–26.
- Career trajectory: Tottenham have developed him through their system but allowed him to leave amid limited prospects of senior opportunities.
- Contract mechanics: Spurs are expected to protect future value with a sell-on clause and matching rights.
The transfer, if completed, follows a pattern of Spurs academy graduates moving on this summer — notably 18-year-old Tynan Thompson’s switch to Manchester United and Alfie Devine’s transfer to Preston earlier in July. Tottenham’s decision to include clauses such as sell-on percentages and matching options underlines the club’s continued interest in the player’s future market value.
Timing and next steps
Although clubs have reportedly reached an agreement on the package, formal completion hinges on personal terms being settled. With Tottenham due to embark on their international tour, both clubs are understood to be keen to finalise arrangements this week.
For supporters and observers in Middlesbrough, the move would signal the club’s intent to reinforce the squad for another promotion push while also reflecting the increasingly active summer market among Championship sides.
Further details, including contract length and any medical arrangements, are awaited as talks continue.
