Tottenham reportedly turned down the chance to sign a former Celtic forward in favour of completing a deal for Brennan Johnson on transfer deadline day.
Spurs completed a £47.5million deal to land Johnson from Nottingham Forest on the final day of the window, having chased the Wales international for the majority of the summer.
Ange Postecoglou identified Johnson as one of the brightest talents in British football who is perfect for his system and style of play in north London.
However, the Australian could have gone down a different path instead by reuniting with a former Celtic star instead.
Transfer insider Graeme Bailey has revealed that Tottenham were alerted to the fact that Saudi side Al Ittihad had made forward Jota available, with Postecoglou even offered the chance to link up with the Portuguese winger again.
However, Bailey still believes the north London side have got an absolute gem on their hands in Johnson.
Bailey told the Talking Transfers Podcast: “He’s a great signing I think myself.
“It’s clear that Ange wanted this type of player and they were offered Jota as well who might be coming back from Saudi Arabia sometime soon.
“I think Johnson is an incredible player who will become a firm fan favourite there.”
Johnson poised for Spurs starting role
Johnson is expected to make his Tottenham debut after the international break when Postecoglou’s men host Sheffield United on September 16.
The big question is where he will fit into the Spurs side, although that may have been answered at Burnley over the weekend.
Son Heung-min started that game as a central striker ahead of Richarlison, with Manor Solomon and Dejan Kulusevski in the wide attacking roles.
The fact that Son bagged a hat-trick means Postecoglou will almost certainly stick with the South Korean in that role going forward, opening the door to Johnson to fill one of the wider roles – probably ahead of Solomon.
