Despite the transfer window being closed, there is always transfer gossip doing the rounds in the papers and we’ll keep you up-to-date with the latest news during the coming months. Today, Chelsea and Tottenham are linked with Jozy Altidore.

AZ Alkmaar technical director Earnest Stewart claims scouts from Chelsea and Tottenham have been watching striker Jozy Altidore, according to Sky Sports News.

The 23-year-old scored just one goal in 28 games during a disappointing loan spell with Hull City in 2009/10, but has now rebuilt his career in the Eredivisie with AZ.

Since joining from Villarreal in 2011, Altidore has been in impressive form, scoring 23 goals in 40 league games for the Dutch outfit.

The USA international has attracted interest from throughout Europe, with Stewart claiming a wealthy club from Eastern Europe came close to signing the striker before the transfer window closed.

The AZ supremo also claims scouts from several top European sides, including Premier League duo Chelsea and Tottenham, have attended AZ matches to run-the-rule over the front man.

“I can confirm that there was a bid for Jozy from a wealthy club from Eastern Europe,” “The bid was received at a very late moment, therefore we couldn’t sign an adequate replacement. For us, it wasn’t interesting. “Also, Jozy was keen to stay at AZ. After years of travelling, he has really found a home. He doesn’t want to just leave the club. “However, I won’t say whether interest will increase during the winter break or at the end of the season. Jozy is developing fantastically, is a real target man for the team and translates that into goals. “Something like that isn’t missed abroad. Also this season scouts from big clubs like Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur have visited AZ games.” Stewart is quoted as saying by Sky Sports

Read more Chelsea transfer news | Spurs transfer news

Chelsea are understood to be in the market for another striker when the window re-opens in January while Tottenham boss Andre Villas-Boas is also thought to be keen to add to his attacking options this winter, and it seems Altidore is a shock target for the London pair.

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