Darren Bent Questions Tottenham’s Decision To Sell Will Lankshear

Darren Bent has criticised Tottenham’s decision to sell Will Lankshear to Middlesbrough, describing it as “big club snobbery”.

Speaking on talkSPORT Drive, the former Spurs striker questioned letting the 21-year-old leave and backed him to reach the Premier League.

Will Lankshear began his football career in Arsenal’s academy before leaving the club in 2021 to join Sheffield United. The young striker quickly became a prolific goalscorer, scoring 38 goals across the Blades’ youth teams. During the 2021/22 season, he captained Sheffield United’s Under-18s to the Professional Development League national title.

His performances attracted Premier League interest, with Tottenham securing his signature in August 2022 for a reported £2 million, including performance-related bonuses

He made six senior appearances for Tottenham Hotspur, scoring once against Galatasaray in the Europa League, where he was also dismissed. He then went on loan to West Brom and Oxford United, scoring 12 goals at Oxford before his transfer to Middlesbrough in July 2026.

Tottenham Hotspur confirmed Lankshear’s permanent departure on 22 July, with Middlesbrough agreeing to pay £10 million initially, with another £10 million potentially due through add-ons. Spurs also retained a 20 per cent sell-on clause and matching rights on a future transfer.

Lankshear remains highly regarded at Tottenham, but the club could not offer the regular first-team minutes he needed. The move gave him a chance to continue his development in the Championship.

The sale formed part of Tottenham’s approach to generating income from academy players alongside providing routes into the senior side. Spurs negotiated future protections in the deal while receiving an immediate transfer fee.

Tottenham Hotspur have endured a disappointing start to the Premier League season, failing to win any of their opening six matches and collecting just three points. Goalscoring has been a major concern for Roberto De Zerbi, as Spurs have struggled to convert chances despite significant summer investment.

Tottenham's recent 1-1 draw against Manchester United highlighted those problems, with several opportunities wasted. Meanwhile, Will Lankshear has scored eight Championship goals for Middlesbrough. His physical presence, finishing ability, and goalscoring instincts could have given De Zerbi another attacking option during a difficult opening period.

Will Lankshear has made an impressive start at Middlesbrough since his move. 21-year-old striker has scored eight goals in 10 Championship appearances, establishing himself among the division’s leading scorers. His recent goals against Wolves and Stoke have strengthened Middlesbrough’s promotion ambitions this season.

Middlesbrough currently sit 2nd in the Championship and welcome Cardiff to the Riverside this weekend.