Jermain Defoe Targeted for Toronto MLS Switch as Spurs Reportedly Eye Danny Ings

Ryan Nelsen has outlined Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe as a possible addition to his Toronto side.

The former Spurs defender—who left Queens Park Rangers to take up the head coach position in February—spoke passionately about his former teammate in a recent interview, as reported by Gary Jones of the Daily Star:

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To get a guy like Defoe, one of the most natural goal-scorers I have ever come across, for the MLS… I cannot think of many that are more suited.

It would be incredible. I call him and text him all the time. Him playing in Toronto would be phenomenal.

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Despite his obvious excitement, Nelsen would face an uphill struggle to land the English striker, who is likely to drum up significant interest if he is to leave White Hart Lane.

Defoe has netted four goals in three Europa League appearances this season, per Who Scored, but continues to suffer limited opportunities in the Premier League.

Andre Villas-Boas has started the 31-year-old on just one occasion in this year’s top flight and continues to favour summer signing Roberto Soldado, despite his inconsistent form.

The Portuguese manager opts to use an attacking trio behind the lone striker, an occurrence that halts Defoe’s chances of breaking into the team.

Nelsen understands the former West Ham forward is unlikely to accept a transfer to the MLS club that finished second from bottom in the Eastern Conference last season, as hinted at in Jones’ report:

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If you look around the world and try and think of a realistic player - and I am not sure how realistic he is - that complements a league like ours, never gets injured, doesn't drink, can play high, low, scores all sorts of goals.

I think if you ask most Premier League teams, they would take Defoe.

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Spurs appear to have a replacement ready should Defoe call time on his North London career. According to Sami Mokbel and Neil Ashton of the Daily Mail, the Premier League side are reportedly monitoring Burnley striker Danny Ings:

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The 21-year-old striker has scored 13 goals already for Sean Dyche's side this season, sparking the interest of Premier League scouts.

And Spurs, who are considering allowing young forward Harry Kane move on loan to Swindon, are among those keeping tabs on the former Bournemouth forward.

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Ings’ excellent form has played a huge role in Burnley's terrific start to the season. They currently sit atop the Championship with one loss in 13 games.

Blessed with similar attributes to Defoe—pace, clever dribbling and lethal finishing—Ings represents a natural replacement for Spurs’ long-serving goal machine.

Even as his career begins to slow down, it would be majorly surprising to see Defoe run out in Toronto colours next season.

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