Confirmed: Tottenham beat Celtic to secure signing of attacker after Premier League rejection

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly completed the signing of Elisha Sowunmi from West Ham United.

January has been a busy month for Spurs across all levels. The North London club have already strengthened Thomas Frank’s senior squad with the arrivals of Conor Gallagher and Souza, while Brennan Johnson departed to Crystal Palace in a £35 million deal.

The club has also bolstered its youth ranks, adding young Irish striker Mason Melia to the academy. Loan moves have been arranged for Kota Takai, Manor Solomon, Jamie Donley, Yang Min-hyeok, Oliver Irow, Damola Ajayi, and Yusuf Akhamrich, with further activity expected, particularly at the youth level.

Tottenham secure Sowunmi after West Ham exit

According to Spurs insider Lilywhite Rose on Instagram, 18-year-old forward Sowunmi has joined Tottenham after rejecting a new contract at West Ham. The club reportedly acted quickly to secure his signature.

Having been with the Hammers’ academy since the Under-9s, Sowunmi will now aim to make an impact with Tottenham’s Under-18 or Under-21 sides. Football Insider notes that Celtic were also interested, but Spurs won the race by offering the teenager a chance to stay closer to home.

Sowunmi says goodbye to West Ham
On Thursday, Sowunmi shared an emotional farewell post on Instagram, marking the end of his decade-long stint at West Ham. The winger, who helped the Under-18s lift the Premier League Cup last season, posted a childhood photo with Winston Reid and Reece Oxford, writing: “After 10 years, it’s time to say goodbye. Grateful for every moment, every lesson, every teammate. Thank you, West Ham.”

West Ham describe Sowunmi as a “versatile attacker” capable of playing on either wing or in the No.10 role. He signed his first professional contract in June 2025 as he prepared to step up to the Under-21s. Now, Tottenham will be the club responsible for guiding the promising youngster’s next steps. ⚪️🔥