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Tottenham are still desperately searching for a player that can ease the stress on Harry Kane, and a 2019 move for Dries Mertens could be the perfect solution.

Tottenham were one of a number of teams linked with Mertens this summer, as the Belgian speedster had a release clause of just €28m (around £24.7m).

That release clause has reportedly expired, but the versatile attacker has reportedly halted talks of a new contract in Naples.

He is out of contract in 2020, meaning Napoli would be on the back foot if negotiations were to take place next year.

Spurs have tried and failed to get an adequate back-up for Kane on multiple occasions, and Mertens showed for Belgium last week that he can be that and so much more.

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The Fernando Llorente and Vincent Janssen experiments have shown that it is impossible to find an out and out striker who is happy to play second fiddle to Kane but who is also good enough to make a difference when needed, which is why a more versatile player is the solution.

Mertens’ agility, speed and link-up play would offer something very different to Kane if he were to start up front, but his performances for Belgium as a winger prove he could be just as valuable on the flank as well.

The 31-year-old, who has scored 70 Serie A goals in 170 appearances for Napoli, was superb in his country’s 2-1 win over Switzerland, firing in three shots and six delicious crosses.

Mertens display vs Switzerland

He created two chances and provided the assist for one of Romelu Lukaku’s two goals, and also showed his pressing and defensive capabilities with one tackle and two interceptions.

Mertens could help carry the goalscoring load alongside Kane, but his ability to play anywhere across the attack means he wouldn’t just be warming the bench when Kane is fully fit and firing.

He will also be 32 and entering the final 12 months of his contract next summer, meaning Daniel Levy could work his magic to grab the 76-cap star for an absolute bargain.

So, Tottenham fans, would you like to see a move for Mertens? Could he be the man to support Kane? Let us know your thoughts by voting in the poll below…