Tottenham Hotspur currently boast an impressive list of talented players out on loan, scattered across clubs in both domestic and international leagues. These loanees have been gaining valuable experience, developing their skills, and, in many cases, thriving in regular first-team environments.
While it’s expected that some of these players may be sold permanently or loaned out again next season for continued development, there’s growing excitement around a select few who appear ready to return to North London and challenge for a spot in the managers first-team plans.
With the summer window approaching, fans are already looking ahead with anticipation, eager to see which of these returning stars will walk out at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in N17 and make a real impact in the Premier League.
Although technically still on loan, Pierre-Emile Højbjerg, Bryan Gil, and Manor Solomon are already considered surplus to requirements and are set to join their respective clubs permanently this summer.
Several promising youngsters, like goalkeeper Josh Keeley and midfielder George Abbott, have impressed during their loan spells but are likely to head out again to continue building valuable experience. Centre-backs Ashley Phillips and Alfie Dorrington have also enjoyed standout seasons away from North London.
However, with Luka Vušković arriving, Kevin Danso likely staying, and another central defender potentially incoming amid speculation around Cristian Romero’s future, both could be sent on loan again – perhaps this time to clubs in higher divisions.
Argentinian striker Alejo Veliz has had a frustrating year in Spain, struggling for game time at both Sevilla and Espanyol. There are now rumours of a return to Rosario Central in his homeland. Still only 20, Veliz remains a player full of potential and could yet find a path back into Spurs’ plans.
Meanwhile, Will Lankshear, currently with West Brom, has found it tough to make a major impact in the Championship. That said, regular game time is vital at this stage of his development, and another loan spell seems likely.
However, for a select few players, the situation feels different. Fans are eager to see them step into the first team – and we believe they’ll soon get the opportunity to prove themselves on the biggest stage.
Jamie Donley
If any loan player has earned a shot next season, it’s Jamie Donley. Currently thriving at Leyton Orient, the young forward has been a standout figure in what’s been an impressive campaign for the League One side. His manager has labelled him a “special talent” on multiple occasions – and the numbers back it up.
With eight goals and nine assists in 37 appearances, Donley has been a consistent and influential presence in the starting XI. His creative output has been remarkable, producing 54 chances and delivering 25 successful crosses. But it's not just in attack where he excels – his defensive contributions are just as eye-catching.
He’s made 154 recoveries, 15 blocks, and won 38 aerial duels, showing his commitment and versatility all over the pitch. He's proved he can show up against Premier League sides - by scoring a screamer in the FA Cup against Manchester City. Tottenham Hotspur have a genuine all-rounder on their hands.
Although there is always a possibility that he could see himself heading out on another loan, with performances like this; fans will be eagerly calling for Donley to be given his chance under the lights at N17.
Alfie Devine
The 21-year-old attacking midfielder has been thriving on his loan in Belgium, playing for Westerlo, and playing alongside fellow Spurs loanee – Luka Vušković.
Devine has been a name floated around Tottenham for many years – with hopes he’d become the next big player. The young prospect has now been on three separate loans over two seasons, and we will be hungry to make Westerlo is last. Former manager, Antonio Conte, was a big admirer of the player, so there is no doubt he has the capability to show up on the big stage.
Five goals in 25 appearances for Westerlo this season, will have fans eager to get him back in a Spurs’ shirt and putting in big performances.
Luka Vušković
Luka Vušković isn’t just a top prospect – he’s one of the most exciting teenage talents in world football right now. Born in 2007, the newly turned 18-year-old already carries himself like a seasoned pro.
Standing at 6’4”, the commanding centre-back has been a standout all season, not only marshalling the backline but also making a serious impact in the final third. He’s featured in 32 matches this season, starting all but one – a testament to his importance in a side currently sitting third in the Belgian Pro League.
Even more impressively, he’s notched seven goals and two assists – phenomenal numbers for a central defender of his age, and defenders in general. His acrobatic and frankly jaw-dropping free-kick put him on everyone's radar, and Tottenham are lucky to call him theirs. Vušković’s defensive intelligence, aerial dominance, and composure on the ball would pair beautifully with Micky van de Ven’s raw pace – potentially forming a formidable partnership for the future.
While some might say he’s one for the long-term project, Spurs fans are already itching to see him in the first team now.
Min-Hyeok Yang
A young Korean talent? We’ve seen this before. Yang arrived to North London from Gangwon FC in January, and was swiftly sent out west to adapt to English football. It’s always hard for players to loan to settle in mid-way through the season, but Yang has impressed so far at QPR.
He’s started eight games, with two goals and one assist. The dynamic and versatile forward can play across the front line, offering Spurs’ essential depth out on the wings. Many fans will hope he can emulate the performances of fellow South Korean, and Tottenham legend, Heung-Min Son. Comparisons shouldn’t be made between a fresh youngster and one of the greatest Premier League wingers of all time, but fans can dream.
At only 19-years-old, he’s one for the future, and could definitely return this summer, and cement his place in the first team.