Troy Parrott future: Ireland talisman ready to take next step
Ireland international Troy Parrott could be on the move this summer after three sensational years in the Netherlands
Ireland international Troy Parrott has taken the road less travelled to the position he now finds himself in as a striker, with admirers amongst the top clubs in Europe. While scoring goals for fun this season in the Netherlands, he has been watched by scouts from clubs in the continent’s top five leagues.
After coming through Tottenham’s youth academy, Dublin-born Parrott went out on a succession of underwhelming loan deals to other English clubs before joining Eredivisie outfit Excelsior on loan for the 2023/24 season. Although he couldn’t help the Dutch club avoid relegation, he was a standout performer and scored 17 goals in 32 games.
That form prompted fellow Eredivise side AZ Alkmaar to pay Spurs €8m to take him permanently and he has gone from strength to strength in Dutch football. Still only 24-years-old, the Irishman has 51 goals in 95 games for AZ who could be set to turn a big profit on their star striker this summer.
Premier League clubs among those interested in Parrott
It is only natural that clubs in Europe’s bigger leagues have sat up and taken notice of Parrott, who also has six goals in his last nine games for Ireland. Leeds United and Everton are among the Premier League clubs credited with an interest in making a move for him this summer, while Borussia Dortmund, Real Betis and AC Milan are also rumoured to be keen on him.
AZ would be reluctant to see their top goalscorer leave, but would be prepared to sell for the right price. It is believed the Dutch club would be looking for at least €25m for their prized asset, of which 20% would be owed to Spurs thanks to a sell-on clause agreed as part of his transfer in 2024.
The player himself is keen to move on this summer and take the next step in his career. Speaking at the end of the Eredivisie season, he made his feelings clear, but even if he does leave, he will always be grateful for the his time in the Netherlands.
“A lot can happen in football, but if it was my last match with Alkmaar, I’ve had the best two years of my life,” said Parrott.
“Now it is important for me to take the next step in my career and to play at the highest level.”
A return to Spurs could suit both parties
Parrott would also reportedly be open to return to Spurs, where he began his professional career. With big changes expected at the North London club this summer, Parrott could be an attractive and reasonably affordable option to provide a goal threat for Roberto De Zerbi’s side.
As he came through Spurs’ academy, Parrott is not only homegrown for all Premier League clubs but would count as club-trained should Spurs return to European competition in the next few years. That adds value and so does the fact that their 20% sell-on clause would essentially act as a discount should they buy him themselves.
After rejuvenating his career and establishing a reputation as an exciting and prolific young striker, Parrott’s next move is key and he needs to go somewhere he will be playing games. If De Zerbi wants to make him his main man, the chance to go back and resolve some unfinished business in London could be very tempting for Parrott.
