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Republic of Ireland hero Troy Parrott could leave AZ Alkmaar in January, with several Premier League clubs circling. He might be exactly what Everton, Leeds United or West Ham need to stay afloat.

Multiple reports have linked Parrott with the Premier League trio after his international heroics, which sent Ireland to the 2026 World Cup play-offs.

Troy Parrott: What a week he’s having, by the way

Scored all five of Ireland’s goals across two World Cup qualifiers

Brace vs Portugal kept play-off hopes alive

Hat-trick in Hungary sealed a dramatic 3–2 win and a play-off spot

The guy is a national hero, and Ireland haven’t even qualified yet!

Parrott has been on fire for AZ this season, scoring 13 goals in 14 matches across all competitions, including six in seven in the Eredivisie.

He carried that form straight into the international break with five goals against Portugal and Hungary, which has prompted Premier League clubs to take notice ahead of January.

“He’s attracting interest, of course, at the moment it is nothing more than calls to enquire about his situation. But this could be an interesting one soon,” said Fabrizio Romano.

Caught Offside claim Leeds could move in January, with Everton and Crystal Palace also keen, while Football Insider have added West Ham to the mix.

Football Insider correspondent Mick Brown explained: “A number of Premier League clubs are looking at Troy Parrott. Not just because he scored a hat-trick in that massive win for Ireland, but he’s been playing at a high level for his club on a more regular basis this season.

“When somebody’s playing at a high level and scoring regularly, these clubs have got to be having a look at them and sending their scouts to go and watch.

“We’ve spoken about numerous clubs in the Premier League who are in need of a striker. This is somebody who is playing in Europe, seems to be at the top of his game, scores goals for club and country, so they’d be stupid not to have a look. Especially playing in the Dutch league, I know most of the clubs if not all of them in England are keeping an eye on what’s going on over there.

“So yeah, I would be very surprised if they weren’t aware of how he’s been playing.”

Parrott could be Leeds’ Raphinha in survival bid

Leeds are currently 16th in the Premier League and there is no doubt they will be in the thick of a relegation battle in the second half of this season.

When you look at the clubs around them at the bottom of the table, Leeds have what some of their rivals lack: an X-factor in attack.

They had that in Raphinha from 2020 to 2022 and that was enough to keep them afloat. Without him, Leeds failed to survive.

Finding someone of that ability will be close to impossible for the Whites, and their rivals do not have anyone on that level, but they do have more difference-makers.

Wolves have Jorgen Strand Larsen, a £60million-rated striker. West Ham have Lucas Paqueta and Jarrod Bowen. Brentford have, erm, Michael Kayode’s long throw-ins. Nottingham Forest have Morgan Gibbs-White. Maybe Fulham lack it, but their squad is comfortably stronger, and Kevin has the potential. Finally, Burnley are also crying out for someone with Raphinha’s influence, but there are three relegation spots and Leeds look destined to occupy one if they do not improve in January.

The signing of Parrott could be the shot in the arm this team needs. They are begging for a new centre-forward and Parrott should be their guy.

West Ham might already have a game-changing attacker in Bowen, but they are also crying out for a natural talent through the middle, as Niclas Fullkrug simply is not that guy and he is expected to leave in January.

Last December, we called him “the most ‘two goals in 30 appearances for West Ham’ striker in history”. He has three in 27. Annoying.

Anyway, Leeds and West Ham would be very silly to ignore Parrott’s availability for a reported £26million, it could be what keeps them in the division.

Everton, meanwhile, have two misfiring strikers in Beto and Thierno Barry. They need someone who knows where the back of the net is, FFS.

Could Spurs re-sign Troy Parrott?

The 23-year-old came through the Tottenham academy but never established himself, spending time on loan at Millwall, Ipswich, MK Dons, Preston and Excelsior before joining AZ for €4 million.

A return to North London is “unlikely,” according to Ben Jacobs.

“A lot of people are asking me about Tottenham Hotspur as well, a return to Spurs is unlikely,” Jacobs said.

“It’s been kind of ruled out by all parties, there’s no buy-back clause as far as Tottenham are concerned, but they do have a sell-on of 20%.”

Juventus defender Gleison Bremer has been linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur, who will likely have to replace Ben Davies at the end of the season.

The Brazil centre-back has established himself as one of the best defenders in Serie A and is now Juventus’ vice-captain after joining from city rivals Torino in July 2022.

Gleison Bremer’s career path

Named after German football icon Andreas Brehme

Joined Atletico Mineiro after youth spells with Sao Paulo and Desportivo Brasil

Signed by Torino, aged 21, in 2018

Moved to Juventus in 2022 and made his Brazil debut two months later

Approaching 100 appearances for Juve and has earned five Brazil caps

It is no secret that Tottenham want to sign a new central defender to provide cover for Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero, who were both linked with moves away in the summer and have struggled with injuries.

Thomas Frank also has Kevin Danso, Ben Davies, and the injured Radu Dragusin, but centre-backs continue to be linked with a switch to north London.

One name in the mix is Juventus’ Bremer, who was heavily linked with a Premier League move during his standout years at Torino.

Football Italia have offered a fairly speculative report suggesting Spurs could move for Bremer, largely because his agency also represents several Tottenham players.

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Naturally, they have added two and two together by noting that Davies’ contract expires at the end of the 2025/26 season.

Bremer is represented by CAA Base Ltd, the same group responsible for James Maddison, Pedro Porro, Pape Matar Sarr, Djed Spence and Richarlison.

Bremer is arguably the best defender in Serie A, not to mention Juventus’ most important player. He would be an incredible coup for Spurs and would likely dislodge one of Van de Ven or Romero if all three were at the club.

And saying Bremer could join to replace Davies is just amazing.

Bremer to Spurs? Maybe not…

There is one major issue: Bremer has played only 10 league games since the start of last season.

The 28-year-old featured in every minute of Juventus’ opening six Serie A matches last term before tearing his ACL, ruling him out for the rest of the campaign.

He started and finished Juve’s first three games of 2025/26 before being rested on matchday four. He then captained the side on matchday five but has not featured since due to a meniscus injury.

That is concerning and could deter potential suitors like Spurs.

He is not expected to return until next year after undergoing surgery in October.

But if interested clubs are unsure whether to take the risk, Juve’s form without him underlines just how vital he is.

In nine games across all competitions without Bremer, the Italian giants have won only twice and have failed to score in four of their six Serie A matches.

In that period, Juventus sacked head coach Igor Tudor and replaced him with Luciano Spalletti.

Arsenal welcome Tottenham to the Emirates on Sunday for the first North London derby of the season.

The Gunners return from the international break top of the Premier League table, four points clear of Manchester City after an eight-match unbeaten run.

A 2-2 draw at Sunderland last time out halted their winning streak, with a stoppage-time equaliser denying them another three points.

Tottenham sit five places back but arrive with momentum of their own. They have the joint-best away record in the league and remain unbeaten on the road.

Their form away from Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has been the foundation of their season. Thirteen points from 15 reflect a side comfortable absorbing pressure and striking at the right moments.

Arsenal hold the recent edge in this derby. They have won five of the last six meetings and completed the league double last season.

The Emirates has also provided a barrier Spurs have rarely broken. Tottenham have not won a Premier League match here since 2010.

With both sides pushing at the top end of the table and carrying clear strengths, this derby arrives with familiar tension and a genuine sense of jeopardy.

How to watch Arsenal vs Tottenham

Arsenal vs Tottenham kicks off at 16:30 (UK) on Sunday, November 23, at the Emirates Stadium.

The match will be shown live on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event.

Arsenal team news

Gabriel is out for at least a month after suffering a thigh injury on international duty, leaving a sizeable gap at both ends of the pitch.

Cristhian Mosquera is expected to step in. The summer signing impressed earlier in the season when covering for William Saliba, and Piero Hincapié offers another option.

Calafiori and Timber both returned from the break with minor issues, while Viktor Gyokeres remains unavailable following the setback against Burnley.

Arsenal are also waiting on updates for Martin Odegaard, Noni Madueke and Gabriel Martinelli. Arteta was optimistic before the break that all three could return for the derby.

Kai Havertz will not feature after a relapse in his knee recovery, with a return expected towards the end of the year.

Arsenal expected line-up

(4-3-3) Raya; Timber, Saliba, Mosquera, Calafiori; Zubimendi, Eze, Rice; Saka, Trossard, Merino

Tottenham team news

Tottenham remain without a long list of senior players, including Solanke, Kolo Muani, Gray, Dragusin, Kulusevski and Bissouma.

James Maddison is still a long-term absentee. Bergvall is also a concern after withdrawing from Sweden duty under concussion protocols.

Pape Matar Sarr returned to London for treatment after being forced off for Senegal. Spurs will assess him further before the weekend.

Richarlison is now the club’s only fit centre-forward, with Muani joining Solanke on the sidelines.

Tottenham expected line-up

(4-3-3) Vicario; Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Spence; Bentancur, Sarr, Johnson; Simons, Odobert, Richarlison

Arsenal vs Tottenham stats

– Arsenal have won five of their last six Premier League games against Tottenham.

– Arsenal have lost just one of their last thirty-two Premier League home games against Spurs.

– Arsenal have scored in each of their last twenty-six home league derbies.

– Arsenal have scored at least twice in each of the last eight home derbies against Tottenham.

– Arsenal have only conceded once in eight home games in all competitions this season.

– Tottenham are the only side unbeaten away from home in the Premier League this season (W4 D1).

– Thomas Frank is winless in his last seven matches against Arsenal (D2 L5).

– This will be Tottenham’s first league derby without Kane or Son since 2014.

Arsenal vs Tottenham predictions

Arsenal will expect a response after the slip at Sunderland, but their injury list leaves Arteta short of stability in key areas. Losing Gabriel removes both a defensive presence and key set-piece threat.

Tottenham arrive with issues of their own, yet their away form has been the defining strength of their season.

Frank’s side have looked far sharper on the road than at home and carry a composure that often suits this fixture.

This has the feel of a tight derby rather than a chaotic one. Arsenal’s set-piece edge is significant, but Spurs’ counter-attacking threat is worth keeping an eye on.

Under 2.5 Goals at 1/1 makes sense given the injuries and the way both sides have managed big games.

Tottenham are looking to land two top targets in the January transfer window with Real Madrid winger Rodrygo and Villarreal forward Georges Mikautadze on their list, according to reports.

Spurs find themselves fifth in the Premier League under new head coach Thomas Frank with Tottenham winning five, drawing three and losing three of their first 11 matches this term.

Tottenham spent over £180m on new signings in the summer transfer window with attacking players like Mohammed Kudus and Xavi Simons signing for big money.

Spurs have scored a respectable 19 goals in 11 Premier League matches so far this season but Frank is keen to bring in more attacking reinforcements in January.

Frank’s side have been linked with a move for Real Madrid winger Rodrygo and now Spanish website Fichajes insists that Tottenham are ‘planning an €85m (£75m) offer, combining a substantial fixed payment with performance-based incentives’.

The report adds: ‘The figure, designed to entice Real Madrid , aims to test the Spanish club’s willingness to negotiate the departure of one of its most talented players. The footballer welcomes the possibility of regaining prominence. His lack of playing time at Real Madrid not only reduces his impact but could also jeopardize his place on Brazil’s squad for the next World Cup, a goal he considers a top priority.’

READ: Big Weekend: Arsenal v Tottenham, Manchester City, Garnacho, Farke, Milan, Sheffield derby

The same website claims that Tottenham are also ‘preparing an offer close to €50m (£44m)’ for Georgia international Mikautadze with Spurs ‘convinced of the enormous potential for growth’ of the Villarreal forward.

Fichajes continues: ‘Villarreal insist that Georges Mikautadze is a priority player and that any departure must respect the established sporting plan. Barring a major surprise, the striker will not leave for less than €50 million, and his price could rise in the coming weeks if he continues to shine in La Liga.’

As well as strengthening their forward line, the Daily Mail claims that Tottenham are also going to attempt to sign a new goalkeeper in the winter window.

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The newspaper wrote: ‘Similarly, a world-class goalkeeper would give them a boost and, despite signing Antonin Kinsky less than a year ago, Spurs are actively looking. Guglielmo Vicario has had some brilliant moments this season but does not command his penalty area and is often targeted at set-pieces. Could they, for example, make Aston Villa an offer they can’t refuse for Emi Martinez?

‘There is an element of the unknown because nobody is sure precisely how the Lewis family plan to follow up on public promises to invest in the team for sporting success.’

We’re back, and once again the fixture computer has given us all a treat to make up for two weeks with absolutely no Barclays to sustain us, a fortnight in which we’ve had to make do with nothing more than a series of astonishing international matches with astonishing late drama.

For being so good during the last fortnight, we get to enjoy the first North London Derby of the season. It’s a fixture that usually delivers some kind of nonsense, and we’ve run the numbers and think there are just about enough players left available in the two INJURY-RAVAGED squads to get a game on.

It’s the headline act of the weekend, but far from the only treat in store.

Game to watch: Arsenal v Tottenham

Lovely slice of proper Super Sunday to get us back into the Barclays swing after an astonishing international break that was pleasantly dull if you’re English and wildly, absurdly exciting if you’re from just about anywhere else.

It might have been an interlull to restore your faith in the international game, but what it’s not done is restore either of the North London pair’s squads to anything like their full power.

Both teams will, if anything, be missing even more players than they were before the break. Which was already a lot. That’s probably a bigger problem for Spurs, who lack Arsenal’s initial depth and are also – and you will have to excuse us getting so technical so early – less good at football generally.

At a quick count and with the usual licence applied to what constitutes a ‘first-team’ absence and indeed ‘major doubt’, we’ve got to 21 names who are either definitely out or doubtful.

Almost quicker to run through the ones who aren’t injured, but we’ll stick with the usual approach.

The players missing or doubtful for this one are Gabriel Magalhaes, Riccardo Calafiori, Jurrien Timber, Kai Havertz, Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Odegaard, Noni Madueke, Gabriel Martinellil, Gabriel Jesus, Mohammed Kudus, Lucas Bergvall, Pape Sarr, Dominic Solanke, Randal Kolo Muani, Archie Gray, Radu Dragusin, Dejan Kulusevski, Kota Takai, Ben Davies, Yves Bissouma and James Maddison.

At least it provides whoever loses a ready-made excuse; you just have to carefully ignore the injury ravages faced by the other lot. Which is pretty easily done – football fans are absolute experts at this kind of compartmentalisation.

It’s a shame, though, because the first NLD of the season does arrive at a fascinating point. Both Spurs and Arsenal have had two weeks to stew on frustrating games before the break in which they went 1-0 down and 2-1 up before conceding last-gasp equalisers.

It also pitches the best home record in the country – on a points-per-game basis if not absolute points – against the best away record. Arsenal have four wins and a draw from five home games including Manchester City; Spurs have four wins and a draw from five away games including Manchester City.

Arsenal will be looking to reassert the control they’d taken of the Premier League before allowing City to trim their lead by a couple of points, while for Spurs… well, we really would just like to know whether or not they’re any good.

Up to now their away form has suggested they definitely are, but their home form says definitely not. Their season surely hinges on which of the two has been the more misleading thus far, and it does rather feel like the likelihood is that the away form is flattering more than the home form is deceiving.

But if they remain unbeaten by Sunday evening having ticked off trips to both City and Arsenal, we might have to reconsider. Until they lose at home to Fulham next weekend, of course.

Player to watch: Alejandro Garnacho

Others may have more dramatically highlighted the fact that leaving Manchester United is just simply good for the soul, but there have been some encouraging signs in recent weeks that Garnacho might well join your McTominays and Rashfords and Antonys in proving the point decisively.

He’s got two goals and two assists across his last four appearances for Chelsea and it is easy to forget just how young he is. Not yet 22, he will become the youngest South American to make 100 Premier League appearances should he play some part for Chelsea at Burnley in Saturday’s lunchtime kick-off.

It’s a big game for Chelsea too; with both Arsenal and Man City facing tricky-looking games, the fact Enzo Maresca’s side has first-mover’s advantage as the first team back in post-lull action gives them the chance to thoroughly insert themselves into the title-race picture ahead of the big games on Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon.

Team to watch: Manchester City

While the North London Derby is the weekend’s clear standout fixture, the context in which it’s played will depend much on what’s happened at St James’ Park the day before.

Arsenal fans will have felt a familiar feeling when watching City so imperiously pounce on their minor slip just before the international break, and if City go to Newcastle and win on Saturday evening there is suddenly only a point in it ahead of Arsenal’s walking wounded taking on their local rivals.

There is definitely a sense of something around City at the moment. The lethargy – apathy, even – as their title defence and Champions League chances evaporated last season has gone and the new laser focus on harnessing the awesome power of Erling Haaland is reaping rich rewards.

Liverpool and Arsenal have both already gone to Newcastle and won but have had to strain every sinew to do so. It would be no great surprise were City to find it slightly easier with Newcastle currently on the back foot after a couple of damaging and meek away defeats in London at West Ham and Brentford before the break.

Having already had Liverpool and Arsenal come to visit, they could have done with literally anyone else rocking up now – Alan Shearer is certainly worried – but there is clearly a huge chance there for a confident, in-form City to strike a significant blow on not one but two wounded opponents this weekend.

Manager to watch: Daniel Farke

Survived the international break, but how much longer does the Leeds manager have? Does feel like it’s simply a matter of time as he begins a brutal run of fixtures between now and Christmas.

Farke’s misfortune is two-fold here; he knew he’d been left short in the summer, he said he needed more players that he didn’t get. And that very fact that has snookered him in the first five months of the season now puts him under even greater pressure, because Leeds must now also decide which manager they’re buying players for in January. And it really doesn’t feel like that will be Farke.

Sunday’s visit of Aston Villa is followed by games against Man City, Chelsea and Liverpool before the first week of December is out.

If the league table suggests that your easiest game on paper in a four-game run is against Liverpool, you’re already in trouble even if you haven’t also lost four of your last five games.

Farke needs something and soon. The problem is that the ‘something’ he needs might just be a miracle.

Football League game to watch: Sheffield Wednesday v Sheffield United

The first Steel City derby of the season takes place with both clubs marooned in the bottom three and desperately searching for signs of positivity. United have turned back to Chris Wilder, Wednesday have at least and at last taken the first steps out of the misery of the Chansiri ownership.

There hasn’t been a notable uptick in on-field results for either team as a result, but even in the most forlorn of situations a win over local rivals always warms the heart. So it’ll probably be a 0-0 draw.

European game to watch: Inter v Milan

And continuing the local-derby theme, it’s the Milan derby. Slightly different vibe to the Sheffield one here, with both these teams in the top rather than bottom three of Serie A rather than the Championship.

Inter currently lead the way, but Milan could be top of the pile at the end of the weekend if they can take the bragging rights here and Roma fail to beat Cremonese.

Arsenal and Tottenham face off in the first North London Derby of the season on Sunday afternoon with Gunners still favourites despite some bad injury news.

The Gunners are top of the Premier League and eight points clear of arch-rivals Spurs, who occupy fifth place in the table, but Mikel Arteta’s side will be missing Gabriel Magalhaes after the centre-back picked up an injury on international duty,

Despite Arsenal being clear at the top of the Premier League table, Tottenham are the best team away from home in the league with 2.6 points per game so far this term.

Form, as they say, goes out the window in derby matches and here are some of the best North London Derby predictions from over the past few days…

Aaron Ramsey

“I can’t see anything other than an Arsenal win at the moment,” he said. “The way they’re playing, I’m really looking forward to it.”

Harry Redknapp

“A fascinating one. Arsenal drew at Sunderland but these things happen, and they were going to drop points at some point. I know they have got some tricky games coming up and they picked up an injury or two during the international break, but I am not overly concerned. This squad should be big enough to make things work.

“Spurs drew against United but I cannot say I was overly impressed. I think Spurs are superb defensively, they have got some top players back there, as good as anyone in the league. Going forward though, they just seem to lack some ideas and a bit of creativity.

“Spurs suit these types of game, we saw them go to the Etihad and win earlier in the season. They will frustrate Arsenal, but I still have to lean towards Arsenal. Arsenal 2-1 Tottenham.”

Ian Wright

When asked if he was concerned by Gabriel’s absence, Wright said: “Mosquera’s coming in so it’s alright.

“I’m not giving Spurs anything. We need a set piece this week we’ll save it for next week. I’m going 2-0.”

On mounting title pressure from Manchester City, Wright added: “It’s not that I’m worried but this is what the league is about now.

“Everyone is saying about how great our squad is but this is when we find out what we’re about.”

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Gary Neville

Responding to Wright on The Overlap: “I don’t think it’ll be 2-0 I think it’ll be a bit more of a scruffy game. I think it’ll be a bit messy.

“I think 2-1 Arsenal or 3-2. It’s that type of game. But I’ll go 2-1 Arsenal. I think Tottenham will score.”

Paul Merson

“This is the game! When I used to play for Arsenal, I used to ring my dad up and tell him when we’re playing Tottenham as soon as the fixtures were out. I know Liverpool and Manchester City are bigger opponents for Arsenal in the title race, but for the fans, this is the biggest game!

“Tottenham are top of the league table if you only consider form away from home. When Spurs are not the favourites and they sit back, absorb pressure and hit you on the break, they are a tricky team to face.

“If Arsenal were playing away from home, I would have given Tottenham no chance! Mikel Arteta also has to deal with injuries to some key players, so I don’t think this game is a straighforward win for Arsenal. Will Viktor Gyokeres be fit? Can Leandro Trossard make an impact like he did in the last game? There are so many questions to be answered.

“Arsenal vs Tottenham has always been one of the most entertaining matches in the Premier League. But I don’t think that will be the case here. I’m expecting a tight, cagey affair with Arsenal coming out on top in the end.

“Prediction: Arsenal 1-0 Tottenham Hotspur.”

David Ornstein says Manchester United are not one of the three Premier League clubs expected to compete for the signing of Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo in January.

News emerged this week that Semenyo has a £65million release clause in the contract he signed in the summer.

Liverpool have been the most strongly linked with the Ghanaian international, though Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United are also reportedly keen.

Antoine Semenyo vs leading PL wingers in 2025/26

More goals (6) than Bryan Mbeumo (5), Mohamed Salah (4), Bukayo Saka (3), Jeremy Doku (1), Jack Grealish (1)

Fewest fouls drawn (7), most fouls committed (24)

Most aerial duels won (26) by 20 (Saka, Salah)

Ornstein said quite a lot about Semenyo’s situation on The Athletic FC Podcast, including what clubs are interested and what Newcastle and Manchester United make of his availability.

“It’s applicable immediately, so the January transfer window,” Ornstein began.

“Some suggested it was only available next summer, but no, in January it becomes live for a certain period of time. Which I imagine with these things is in around the first 10 days of the window, and that gives a couple of weeks for Bournemouth to find a replacement.

“Bournemouth accept he wouldn’t have signed the new deal if they hadn’t agreed to this.

“My understanding is it’s available to all clubs, not just certain suitors. You know, the likes of Liverpool, Manchester City, Tottenham have all been heavily linked in recent days and weeks.

“It’s a clause that if it does go to the summer when it will reactivate, then it’s a lower fee.”

Deputy News Editor Dan Kilpatrick added that Tottenham Hotspur should be in contention for Semenyo’s signature.

“I think there was interest from Spurs over the summer,” he added.

“There are no secrets, as Spurs still need reinforcements there (in attack). They don’t have a natural option on the left flank or a clear favorite on the left flank under Thomas Frank. They will be a club watching the situation, I’m sure.”

Ornstein added that the release clause is lower than their asking price in the summer transfer window, when Manchester United enquired about Semenyo’s availability.

“It’s clearly one of the best market opportunities out there,” he said. “£65million is below what Bournemouth were asking for him last summer.

“When Manchester United and Spurs came knocking, it was £70million. The suggestions out there, following our story, is that it’s actually £60million, plus £5million in add-ons.”

Liverpool have ‘firm interest’ in signing Semenyo in January

Liverpool, though, are seriously interested in signing the 25-year-old in January.

“It sounds like Liverpool have a firm interest. They didn’t replace Luis Diaz last summer. They obviously gave Rio Ngumoha an opportunity, and will continue to, and they don’t want to block his pathway.

“But of course, with players of such a tender age on such a big stage, they need time, and they need space and respect, and perhaps an acquisition of Semenyo’s level would work in that regard.

“Mohamed Salah is getting to an age where they’ll be thinking about auxiliary players, but also succession plans as well. So that’s an interesting one to watch.

“Richard Hughes, the sporting director at Liverpool, signed Antoine Semenyo from Bristol City to Bournemouth, so there’s a clear link there.”

Manchester City and Spurs are interested in signing Semenyo, Ornstein reports.

“Manchester City have been credited with an interest. Tottenham were linked with a move for Savinho in the summer, put in an offer. Man City kept hold of him. They were looking at Rodrygo as a potential replacement. So that’s definitely an area that they’ll be paying attention to.

“We actually revealed in the summer that they (Tottenham) had made an enquiry for Semenyo, and I think soundings coming from around Spurs is that they’re ready to do something in January to bolster that squad further.

“They’ve got the Champions League campaign. They’ve got the ambitions of what feels like a new ownership under the old ownership, and they want to be challenging. Their stated aim is to sort of be winning the trophies like they did last summer with the Europa League more regularly. And for the time being, from the many conversations I’ve had, those seem to be the three teams genuinely in the frame to a certain degree.”

Man Utd, Arsenal, Newcastle not in Semenyo race

Manchester United, meanwhile, seem unlikely to pursue Semenyo after spending over £60m on Bryan Mbeumo in the summer.

“Manchester United were there in the summer, but they obviously signed Bryan Mbeumo. So is this a position that they’re looking for? Is this a player that they’re still in for? I’m not aware of that right now. Of course, the finances will play a major part with United as well.

“People have said Arsenal, because I think there’s some suggestion that he was an Arsenal fan growing up. But obviously, they’re very well stocked in those attacking positions as things stand.”

Asked if Newcastle could make a move, Ornstein played down that possibility.

“Newcastle are hugely ambitious, as per their ownership and their manager, Eddie Howe; they’ve got Champions League football. They want to be winning more trophies after their League Cup success last time round.

“They did strengthen in the wide area, with Anthony Elanga on the right side, and that was their priority. They’ve still, of course, got Anthony Gordon on the left.

“Semenyo is not a name I’ve heard in their sphere so far. And Newcastle have had to be really careful with their finances. They came so close to the edge, which led them to sale of Yankuba Minteh and also Elliot Anderson… I’m not sure how the finances would work right now with Newcastle.

“But moreover, I’m not hearing them as this moment in time being in the frame for Semenyo, and I don’t know what comes from an optical point of view on Eddie Howe potentially signing another player from Bournemouth. Personally, I wouldn’t care, because Antoine Semenyo is so good.

“Let’s see. It wouldn’t surprise you if others came into the mix, but certainly, you know, the industry is telling us so far that if there’s to be a move, it’s sounding more like a Liverpool, Man City, Tottenham direction of travel, subject to change.”

A Tottenham man is reportedly ‘unlikely’ to play for the club again, and a London rival is among those hoping for a cut-price transfer in January.

Spurs have made a positive start to life under Thomas Frank. They are currently fifth in the Premier League and on eight points in the Champions League.

Frank made it clear what he would and wouldn’t accept from his squad early on. As a result of the persistent lateness of Yves Bissouma, the midfielder was left out of the UEFA Super Cup squad, and injuries since mean he’s been yet to play for Frank.

At the time, the manager said: “Bissouma has not travelled with the team because of disciplinary reasons.

“He has been late several times and the latest time was one too many. With everything you need to give your players a lot of love but also have demands and there also need to be consequences. This time there was a consequence for that.”

A month later he suggested the door was still open for Bissouma at Tottenham, but it seems that’s no longer the case.

The Daily Mail now reports that the midfielder is ‘unlikely’ to ever play for Spurs again. His contract is up in the summer, and if he’s not sold in January, the north London club expects to renew his deal for a year, thus giving them further opportunities to sell.

But Bissouma might already be out of the door by January. The report suggests Tottenham will listen to offers in January, with Fulham among the sides who want to land the midfielder.

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They are said to be monitoring his situation but hope his price is cut as his contract winds down, after Spurs’ last attempts to ship the midfielder out were for over £10million.

Given Bissouma is still injured, it’s not a given that he is sold in January. But it’s projected that he will be back fit by then, allowing him to head to AFCON.

If he performs well there, then it seems a move could well be likely. The report suggests that Bissouma is settled in England and is thought to favour continuing there.

As a result, Fulham could have a good chance of landing him, and given January is due to be the final chance Tottenham will get to receive a fee from him, the hopes of a cut-price deal could be realised.

A Tottenham summer signing is reportedly ‘unhappy’ at his role at the club currently and finds himself ‘top’ of the list at Roma for a potential move.

Spurs made eight signings in the summer. Mohammed Kudus and Joao Palhinha have clearly been two of the standouts, while others have had less impact.

Mathys Tel, who was on loan from Bayern Munich last season and then signed permanently for just under £30million has not done an awful lot.

He’s started just four games across all competitions and has scored twice in his 11 total appearances.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Tel is ‘unhappy’ partially because he was left out of the Champions League squad, with fellow new man Randal Kolo Muani included.

That could be to the benefit of Roma boss Gian Piero Gasperini, who it’s said has the Frenchman ‘top’ of his list to improve the left flank.

The report states that Tottenham have no interest of selling Tel right now, but a loan move could be best for all parties.

Whether or not Spurs would accept that remains to be seen, though. Indeed, there could be more opportunities coming for Tel than he has had so far this season.

Kudus is returning from a knock, potentially alongside Dominic Solanke – who has been out for a while – Kolo Muani sustained an injury prior to the international break, and Dejan Kulusevski remains on the sidelines.

With a number of attacking options either not at full fitness or out of action, Thomas Frank won’t want his side to be less impactful up top.

Indeed, only the top three in the Premier League have scored more than Tottenham have this season, and it will be hard to sustain the efforts in front of goal without options in the attack.

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As a result, if injury problems remain into the January window, it feels unlikely that Tel will be allowed to leave.

That said, it is conceivable that all of the current injured attackers will be back fit by then, which could potentially open the door to Tel’s exit.

That reports suggest Spurs want to land a new left winger given their struggles in the position – which has been occupied by a few forwards so far this season – could mean that Tel is given the nod to go and get minutes elsewhere, given that is one of two positions he’s played this term.

Real Sociedad are reportedly open to selling star winger Takefusa Kubo – and that should put several Premier League clubs on red alert.

A report from Spanish outlet Fichajes claims the San Sebastián club have ‘agreed to sell Kubo in January’ and names Tottenham Hotspur as the most likely destination.

Kubo solves a simple Tottenham issue

Spurs strengthened their attack in the summer with Xavi Simons, Randal Kolo Muani, Mathys Tel and Mohammed Kudus, yet they continue to be linked with attackers.

A recurring issue for Thomas Frank’s frontline is how few of his options have a clear, fixed best position.

Kudus, for example, is known primarily as a right-winger, but he has also played on the left, as a No.10 and even as a No.9. The same positional fluidity applies to all four of Spurs’ summer signings. Even Richarlison, who was signed as a back-up when Harry Kane was still at the club, has always been viewed as someone who can play anywhere across the front line.

That lack of continuity could be hindering Spurs. Look at Arsenal or Manchester City, and you instantly know where their attackers line up. Bukayo Saka is a right-winger. Jeremy Doku is a left-winger. Simple.

That’s why Kubo is relevant: he is a right-winger, full stop. And having a reliable, specialist player in that role could be transformative for Spurs, provided he has the quality to thrive in the Premier League.

Takefusa Kubo: Career stats

Current Transfermarkt value: €30m

Peak value: €60m (Dec 2023)

Kubo’s talent was never in doubt two years ago, but his recent form has dipped. After strong 2022/23 and 2023/24 seasons (nine goals, seven assists; then seven goals, four assists), last season produced only five goals and zero assists in 36 matches. This year, he has one goal in 10 appearances.

Premier League clubs might hesitate over the declining numbers, but a new environment could be ideal, and if he’s available for under £30m, he’s absolutely worth considering.

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Kubo’s transfer options should range from Spurs to Leeds

For around £25m, Kubo could realistically end up at a relegation battler such as Leeds United, but he could just as easily attract interest from Spurs or Newcastle.

Liverpool once viewed him as a long-term option on the right. While he no longer profiles as a Salah successor, he could still be a viable squad option behind Salah, especially since Arne Slot lacks a natural right-sided winger in reserve.

Aston Villa are also mentioned in the Fichajes report, though Sociedad may only sanction a mid-season sale if his €60m release clause is activated, something that feels highly unlikely.

Still, at half that price, Kubo would represent a smart market opportunity for almost any Premier League club.

The numbers: Kubo stacks up well against Premier League stars

Japan’s starboy remains one of the most technically gifted players in Spain, averaging 1.45 take-ons per 90 in 2025/26, more than Salah (0.64) and Manchester City winger Savinho (1.36).

His progressive carries per 90 (4.03) are similar to Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka (4.21), and among a group including Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and the three aforementioned players, he ranks lowest for dispossessions per 90 (1.13).

Defensively, he’s far from a liability. He is top for tackles per 90 (1.61) and second for blocked passes (0.81), behind only Saka (1.32).

The fundamentals are there, and at the right price, Kubo would be a top signing for almost every Premier League club.