GIVEMESPORT

Tottenham Hotspur winger Manor Solomon has been earmarked for a move away from North London this summer on a loan deal, with Leeds United having been circulated as a potential destination, according to Israeli news outlet Sport5.

Solomon made a strong start to his career in Tottenham white, assisting twice against Burnley in his first few games, but was subsequently hit with a heavy injury that saw the Israeli forward left on the shelf for the rest of the season.

Now, with Tottenham having reinforced in his area and seen him sink down the pecking order, the club have reportedly come to the decision to send him out loan for the season to recapture his sharpness.

Leeds United have been the most prominent name linked with his services this summer, with the club in need of attacking reinforcement following the departures of Georginio Rutter and Crysencio Summerville to Brighton and West Ham respectively.

Solomon Linked with Leeds Loan

The 25-year-old spent most of last season injured

Solomon's arrival in North London last season was treated as a smart capture, having caught the eye on loan at Fulham the year prior, and arriving on a free transfer to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

However, his big six career has so far not gone to plan, with a hefty ligament injury forcing him to watch the season from the sidelines instead, having made a strong start initially in North London, even earning the nickname of "pocket rocket" by the Sky Sports Super Sunday panel.

Now, with Tottenham having deemed the unfortunate winger as surplus to requirements, Solomon is available for a loan switch this summer, in an attempt for Solomon to regain his fitness and for Tottenham to recoup some of his potential re-sale value.

Leeds United have been circulated as the team most likely to acquire his signature, with the Elland Road outfit in need of reinforcement on the attacking flanks after being hit by several big departures this summer already.

It is stated by Sport5 that Solomon is also considering inquiries from fellow Premier League sides, as well as offers from Spain and Germany, but a switch to Leeds United appears to be the most prominent outlet so far.

Leeds Keen on Burnley Star

Manuel Benson has been subject to interest from the Whites

Manuel Benson of Burnley has been outed as another potential option to re-bolster the Leeds United flanks, with the 27-year-old also being subject to interest from Norwich City.

Burnley's relegation from the Premier League has seen a number of their star players depart for new pastures, including the likes of Wilson Oderbert to Tottenham and Sander Berge to Fulham, but a move to a fellow Championship title contender has been proposed ahead of Benson, who fell down the pecking order at Turf Moor upon their initial return to the English top flight.

The Angolan is reportedly keen on the potential switch, having starred for The Claret's in their last Championship campaign wherein they comfortably won the league, becoming a fan favourite for his pace, dynamism and eye-catching agility and skills.

Manchester United and Tottenham are both interested in signing Barcelona defender Andreas Christensen should he be available for transfer, according to reports in Spain.

Erik ten Hag has signed several defensive reinforcements already this summer, with Leny Yoro and Mathijs de Ligt now settling in as new center-back options. But a long-term injury to Yoro has rendered him unavailable for at least three months, which could push the Red Devils back into the market.

Meanwhile, Spurs, on the other hand, have been strengthening other areas of the pitch, with the likes of Dominic Solanke, Wilson Odobert and Archie Gray expected to play useful roles in midfield and attack. With just Cristian Romero, Micky Van de Ven, Radu Dragusin and Ben Davies as senior options for the middle of the back line, some further improvement wouldn't go amiss.

Winner of the Premier League, Champions League and two Europa Leagues, Christensen's experience could be instrumental to both top-flight outfits ahead of next season, though a transfer entirely depends on Barcelona's stance.

Manchester United and Tottenham Both Interested in Andreas Christensen

Barcelona may be inclined to sell to meet financial requirements

According to Spanish reports, Barcelona fans should expect plenty of activity heading into the remaining weeks of the transfer window. The Catalans' economic constraints have been well-documented in the past and they are still ongoing, much to the frustration of fans.

The club's higher-ups will be hoping to sanction a few more outgoings to allow for some weaving room with financial guidelines. As a result, it is believed that Christensen could be one of the names heading to the club's exit door this summer, if outgoings for other players cannot be organised.

The Danish international has a fantastic track record of experience, and has previously been described as "one of the best defenders in the world", and although he was unable to end the previous term with additional major silverware, he still enjoyed a successful season performance-wise. Moreover, his strong defensive outings for Denmark at Euros 2024 earlier this year helped his nation to the knockout stages, albeit inevitably crashing out to the tournament hosts Germany.

However, amid the emergence of 17-year-old wonderkid, Pau Cubarsi, it looks as though Christensen could face additional competition for minutes at the Spotify Camp Nou. The reports from Spain suggest that it is due to this reason why the 28-year-old may be more open to an exit than in previous years.

A Chelsea youth academy graduate, Christensen will undoubtedly be well-accustomed to the quick and physical nature of the Premier League, and it would be an impressive coup for any top-division side, but Manchester United and Tottenham have been named as those with the most interest.

Manchester United Close in on Agreement for Manuel Ugarte

Ten Hag Chases Fifth Incoming

Manchester United's heavy-spending summer is set to continue, and a defensive midfielder could be next on the list of priorities. Manuel Ugarte has been earmarked as Ten Hag's ideal reinforcement for this role and an agreement with PSG is thought to be close.

Earlier in the window, GMS sources had revealed that United were hoping to bring the Uruguayan to Old Trafford before the 30th August deadline, but talks had stalled over the transfer fee. The club were even preparing to explore deals for alternatives such as Sander Berge and Sofyan Amrabat, but it seems negotiations with Les Parisiens are back on the right track.

Ugarte would be Ten Hag's fifth acquisition so far this summer, and he would join Joshua Zirkzee, Leny Yoro, Mathijs De Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui as the club's latest newcomers.

Highlights

Tottenham could make two changes, depending on the fitness of Pedro Porro and Rodrigo Bentancur.

Archie Gray could make first Spurs start at home to Everton.

Toffees likely to make changes after 3-0 home defeat at the hands of Brighton.

Tottenham Hotspur host Everton in their first home Premier League fixture of the 2024/25 campaign. Both sides are looking for a first win of the season after Spurs were pegged back by newly-promoted Leicester City with Everton suffering a galling 3-0 loss at home to Brighton and Hove Albion.

Both sides look like making changes for the fixture as Ashley Young was sent off for Everton in the 3-0 loss at Goodison Park while Spurs are monitoring Rodrigo Bentancur following his substitution with a head injury at the King Power Stadium. With a first victory of the campaign up for grabs, here's all the latest team news and predicted starting line-ups for Ange Postecoglou and Sean Dyche's sides.

Tottenham Team news

Porro an injury worry after grabbing goal at Leicester

Two main injury concerns prevailed over Tottenham following their disappointment at the hands of Leicester City, those being over the heads of midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur and right back Pedro Porro.

Bentancur was withdrawn following a nasty head collision while defending a Leicester corner and was taken away from the field of play on a stretcher, being replaced by young debutant Archie Gray, a summer arrival from Leeds United. Officials at the King Power Stadium reported back that Bentancur was in a stable position following the clash, but meanwhile is unlikely to be risked in Spurs' next battle with Everton.

Porro, who joined for £39.7m in January 2023, picked up a knock in the games latter stages, and was subsequently withdrawn with Djed Spence taking his place on the right of the defence. Though Porro's injury is not expected to be severe, his selection against Everton is at risk.

Meanwhile, Yves Bissouma is unlikely to make his way back into the squad, after the club suspended him following the release of footage of him inhaling laughing gas. The club handed him a self-imposed one-game ban for the incident, but it remains to be seen as to whether or not Ange Postecoglou will return him into the first team fold.

In terms of other selections, Tottenham may opt for a pack reshuffle, given their failure to defeat Leicester despite their dominance. One notable omission of the squad to face The Foxes was Dejan Kulusevski. The Swede was left to settle for a cameo off of the bench on Monday night, despite a strong pre-season.

Tottenham Predicted XI

Gray to make first start for Spurs

With two notable hits to the side following Spurs' disappointing result against Leicester City, the two players who came on to replace Porro and Bentancur may be in line to make their first ever starts for the club.

The opportunity will likely be a huge one for Djed Spence in particular. The right-back, signed from Middlesbrough in 2023 after a fantastic loan season with Nottingham Forest, has only played a handful of minutes in his Tottenham career so far, spending time out on loan at Genoa, Rennes and Leeds United since. With Porro unlikely to be risked, and with Spence taking his place on Monday night, he may get the chance to impress against Everton.

Archie Gray may also be in contention for his first ever Premier League start, having displayed his young composure in his cameo at the King Power Stadium as a replacement in the 78th minute for Bentancur. The Uruguayan was in a stable condition soon after the game, but is unlikely to be risked, potentially paving the way for the youngster to make a starting impression.

Elsewhere in the side, Kulusevski's absence from the Monday night squad was missed, following a strong pre-season for the Swede. Though Welsh winger Brennan Johnson looked spirited enough against Leicester, the extra dynamism and control brought by Kulusevski may be preferred by Postecoglou against the Toffees.

Everton Team News

Branthwaite still on the sidelines

Many injury concerns were present for Everton were present even before their loss against Brighton, with star defender Jarrad Branthwaite being left on the shelf alongside the likes of James Garner, Seamus Coleman and Nathan Paterson.

With three players listed there who can fill in at right-back, the red card shown to Ashley Young for his last-man haul-down of Kaoru Mitoma will have done Sean Dyche few favours, with Mason Holgate likely to be the only man available to fill the position in, save for a brave formation change by Dyche. With Young out, there will be a likelihood for Holgate to take his place if he is deemed to be well enough for it.

Everton Predicted XI

Dyche to make changes

A bold prediction, perhaps, but given Everton's toothless opening day performance, we foresee Sean Dyche bringing changes in against Tottenham.

Holgate will occupy the full-back position in the absence of Young, while new signings Iliman Ndiaye and Jesper Lindstrom were both in the squad against Brighton, with the former coming on in the place of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who didn't have his greatest day in front of goal, and showing his grit in search of an appearance.

A spark in ideas may be needed, so it wouldn't be too surprising to see both players get their first starting opportunities for the Toffee's, with Abdoulaye Doucoure making his way deeper into the midfield, and with Calvert-Lewin dropping out.

Dwight McNeil and Jack Harrison may keep their places on the wings, with Idriss Gueye joining Doucoure in the engine room. With Branthwaite out, James Tarkowski was joined in the heart of the defence by Michael Keane, and with Branthwaite not likely to return anytime too quickly, we expect that again with Vitaliy Mykolenko and Jordan Pickford setting up the rest of the wall.

Tottenham Hotspur are ready to remain patient in their pursuit of Hayden Hackney after being made aware that Championship side Middlesbrough will not entertain cashing in on the Hotspur Way target ahead of the transfer window slamming shut next week, GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed.

Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou, whose side got their campaign underway with a 1-1 draw against newly-promoted Leicester City on Monday, has already shown a willingness to raid the second tier as he seeks reinforcements by landing Wilson Odobert in a deal worth in the region of £25million from Burnley.

The versatile Archie Gray has also made the move for up to £30million after being unable to help boyhood club Leeds United into the Premier League at the first time of asking last term, but chairman Daniel Levy may be on course to spend further cash as the August 30 deadline edges closer.

Spurs to Continue Keeping Tabs on Hackney

North Londoners have been long-term admirers of midfielder

Tottenham are prepared to play the waiting game and continue monitoring Hackney's performances after it has become clear that Middlesbrough are unwilling to sanction his exit in the coming days, according to GMS sources, but their interest has been genuine after he has gained the attention of numerous top flight outfits.

It is understood that Spurs have sent scouts to watch the defensive midfielder in his current employers' first two Championship fixtures of the season, but they were joined by representatives from West Ham United, Nottingham Forest and Wolverhampton Wanderers in the stands as they assessed his capabilities.

GMS sources have been informed that Tottenham have been tracking Hackney for a prolonged period, with them looking to secure a long-term replacement for the departed Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, but Middlesbrough have been adamant that they will not accept a bid at this stage of the transfer window.

The 22-year-old has made 71 appearances for Boro, with him failing to miss a single minute of the clashes against Swansea City and Derby County during the early stages of the campaign, and his current employers are aware that they will have little time to fill the void if they offload him before the deadline.

Middlesbrough boss Michael Carrick has links to Tottenham after featuring for the north Londoners during his playing career, but GMS sources have learned that the tactician has been given assurances that key men - including Hackney - will not be sold as he attempts to oversee a promotion push this season.

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Hayden Hackney has made seven tackles during Middlesbrough's first two Championship fixtures of the season, while he has also registered three clearances and two interceptions

Middlesbrough Set Lofty Hackney Valuation

Championship side determined to fend off suitors before deadline

GMS sources have been told that Hackney is valued in the region of £25million by Middlesbrough after he has remained one of the first names on the team sheet at the Riverside Stadium, and they are determined to resist the temptation of pocketing a hefty sum if a formal bid is made for his signature.

The former Scunthorpe United man still has three years remaining on his £6,500-per-week contract, meaning that the Teesside outfit are not under pressure to allow him to embark on a fresh challenge if Tottenham or another of his suitors come calling for an agreement in the coming days.

Although Middlesbrough realise that they are likely to lose Hackney at some stage down the line, GMS sources understand they are adamant that he will remain among Carrick's options for the remainder of the campaign as they aim to fight their way back into the Premier League for the first time since 2017.

GMS previously reported that Tottenham were in the hunt to land the five-cap England under-21 international in January, when Postecoglou was looking to guide the capital club to Champions League qualification, and their interest has refused to go away despite being unable to get the deal over the line.

Tottenham Hotspur have sent scouts to watch Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney in his side’s first two outings of the Championship season, according to TBR Football, who revealed that Nottingham Forest, Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Ham United are all interested parties.

In terms of Spurs, Ange Postecoglou and his entourage have been busy bolstering their side with the central midfield reinforcements of Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray, while the north Londoners also eclipsed their club-record acquisition with Dominic Solanke.

That said, the capital club are still keen on welcoming more faces to their ranks before the fast-approaching deadline next week as they vie to better their Premier League finish of fifth last season.

Tottenham Monitor Middlesbrough’s Hayden Hackney

Club scouts have watched the 2002-born star recently

After the acquisition of Gray from the English second tier, Postecoglou and Co are willing to dip their toes back into said market to snare another youngster – that being Hackney, a Middlesbrough academy graduate.

According to TBR Football, the capital club are keeping tabs on Hackney’s situation ahead of next week after emerging as long-term admirers, while the aforementioned Premier League trio of Forest, Wolves and West Ham are also in the mix.

During his employers’ first two games – in which Hackney played the entire 180 minutes – Tottenham chiefs have been in the stands to monitor the 2002-born star, who has amassed 71 outings in total for his current side. Redcar-born Hackney, who has been described as 'elite' by football analyst Ben Mattinson, is still just 22 years of age and could prove a solid option in the centre of the park for any would-be buyer for the next decade or so.

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: In his 184-game career, Hackney has notched 16 goals and 23 assists.

According to the report, however, Boro boss Michael Carrick is reluctant to let any of his star men – which includes the five-cap England Under-21 international Hackney – to up and leave before the window closes for business.

The former Manchester United midfielder will be looking to earn promotion yet again this campaign and keeping a young and hungry Hackney under his wing could be imperative to how they fare.

Last term alone, the defensive midfielder notched 2,388 minutes in all competitions across 28 outings, 21 of which came in the league, as he emerged as one of Carrick’s standout performers.

Wolves' Joao Gomes on Tottenham’s Radar

Postecoglou and Co set sights on late move for midfielder

Central midfield, as evidenced by Tottenham’s interest in Hackney, is an area that Tottenham are keen to strengthen before the 30 August deadline – and the club are eyeing a ‘late move’ for Joao Gomes, according to GIVEMESPORT sources.

The Wolverhampton Wanderers ace, who has been previously admired by Manchester United, has been identified by Tottenham’s higher-ups as a potential acquisition after Rodrigo Bentancur picked up an injury against Leicester City.

Gomes, 23, fits the bill of what Postecoglou and Co are keen to secure in the coming weeks, which is an energetic midfielder who is capable of adding a layer of possibility to the club’s attacking play.

Last term alone, the Brazilian notched 38 appearances in all competitions while becoming a key player for boss Gary O’Neil in the heart of the midfield, hence why Liverpool have also been keeping tabs on his situation.

Tottenham want to sign a new goalkeeper before the end of the transfer window with Tomasso Martinelli someone who has "caught their eye", according to insider Paul O'Keefe.

The Lilywhites have handed Italian Guglielmo Vicario the number one shirt for the new season after a solid debut campaign in north London last year where he replaced Hugo Lloris, and he started the season between the sticks for Spurs' 1-1 draw with Leicester on Monday night.

Former Celtic shot stopper Fraser Forster has served as the back-up option since Ange Postecoglou's arrival in N17, but they are now looking at alternative options to provide competition for Vicario.

Tottenham Eye Move for Martinelli

With Vicario the undisputed number one goalkeeper at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for Postecoglou, the club are looking for a back-up option to come into the squad and develop while also pushing for the number one spot in the future.

According to agent and Spurs insider O'Keefe on his personal X account, the club have been watching 18-year-old sensation Tommaso Martinelli of Fiorentina and he has "caught their eye" as an option to fulfill that role.

There is no deal or talks ongoing currently between the two clubs but Spurs want to add a new goalkeeper to the squad before the window closes and he could well be someone who is targeted as they have been paying attention to him this summer.

Defensively the north London club have already seen Joe Rodon, Emerson Royal, Japhet Tanganga and Ryan Sessegnon leave permanently this summer, while Archie Gray has come in and is capable of playing at right-back and Djed Spence has returned from loan spells at Leeds United and Genoa.

Tottenham Plot £27m Vanderson Bid

Brazilian could replace Emerson Royal at right-back

While there have been several departures in the first-team at Spurs there have also been a lot of arrivals in Ange Postecoglou's squad.

As well as the arrival of Gray, Spurs have signed Dominic Solanke, Wilson Odebert and Lucas Bergvall, but the next man to come through the door could be Monaco right-back Vanderson.

Reports in Brazil suggest Spurs are planning to make a £27million bid for the Brazilian defender, who could come in and replace Emerson Royal who has completed a move to AC Milan. Pedro Porro is the current first-choice option in that position, but Vanderson's attacking attributes make him the perfect competition to improve the depth and push Porro for his spot.

Monaco are reportedly closing in on a deal to sign Jordan Teze to replace Vanderson should he move on from the Ligue 1 club, as Spurs look to close a deal before the August 30th deadline.

Kyle Walker-Peters has also been linked with a move back to north London as he enters the final year of his contract with Southampton, and it's clear that the transfer business at Tottenham is not done yet as we enter the final ten days of the window.

Tottenham Hotspur have set their sights on landing Wolverhampton Wanderers star Joao Gomes during the final stages of the summer transfer window as Rodrigo Bentancur's injury setback has underlined the need to lure a fresh central midfielder to Hotspur Way, GIVEMESPORT sources have revealed.

Spurs have not been afraid to splash the cash ahead of the August 30 deadline, with Dominic Solanke becoming their latest acquisition when he completed a switch worth up to £65million from Bournemouth, but further alterations to the squad are being eyed as technical director Johan Lange and chairman Daniel Levy lead the recruitment drive.

The opening fixture of the season did not go to plan for Tottenham as the north Londoners were held to a 1-1 draw by newly-promoted Leicester City and Bentancur required oxygen before being stretchered off following a clash of heads with Abdul Fatawu, and Postecoglou is seeking fresh options in the middle of the park.

Gomes Pinpointed as Potential Spurs Recruit

Postecoglou seeking energetic midfielder ahead of transfer deadline

Tottenham are contemplating whether to raid Premier League rivals Wolves as Gomes has worked his way firmly onto the capital club's radar a matter of days before the transfer window slams shut, according to GMS sources, and he fits the bill as Postecoglou is eager to recruit an energetic midfielder who is capable of breaking forward.

Bentancur's injury came in the aftermath of Oliver Skipp sealing a move worth an initial £20million to Leicester and Yves Bissouma being suspended by the club for the opening fixture of the campaign, resulting in Spurs being short of options heading into their clash with Everton on Saturday.

Although GMS sources have been informed that Wolves would not be keen to sell Gomes if Tottenham formalise their interest with a bid, Postecoglou is threatening to test their resolve due to being desperate to make another addition before the fast-approaching deadline as he aims to provide cover for Bentancur.

The 23-year-old Brazil international's current employers are determined to keep him on board after already allowing the likes of Max Kilman and Pedro Neto to head through the Molineux exit door in big-money deals, and head coach Gary O'Neil has described him as a 'super talent' after remaining one of the first names on the team sheet.

Tottenham are not the only Premier League side to have shown interest in Gomes as GMS sources previously revealed that Wolves would not entertain cashing in for less than £50million after Manchester United were also circling, but time is running out to lure him away from the West Midlands.

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Joao Gomes has played a pivotal role in ensuring Wolverhampton Wanderers have emerged victorious in both of his appearances against Tottenham Hotspur, with him finding the back of the net twice

Gibbs-White Earmarked as Alternative Option

North Londoners have been keeping tabs on 24-year-old playmaker

GMS sources have been told that Tottenham have also been keeping tabs on Nottingham Forest playmaker Morgan Gibbs-White since the end of last season, highlighting that Postecoglou is refusing to solely focus on potentially tempting Wolves into sanctioning Gomes' departure from Molineux.

The 24-year-old has attractive traits thanks to having the ability to break out of midfield, but his current employers have not made him available on the transfer market as they are aware that his City Ground departure could leave them in serious danger of failing to retain their top flight status.

Atalanta's Europa League-winning tough tackler Ederson has been a long-term target for Tottenham, GMS sources understand, and Greek-Australian tactician Postecoglou is assessing his options as he gauges the opportunities that could open up ahead of the fast-approaching deadline.

Tottenham are still keeping tabs on Chelsea's Conor Gallagher, and retain hope of hijacking Atletico Madrid's move for the midfielder, according to Peter O'Rourke of the Football Insider.

Gallagher made 50 appearances for Mauricio Pochettino's team last season, scoring seven times as the Blues secured a place in the top six of the Premier League. Despite featuring extensively and becoming an integral part of the Chelsea squad, the 24-year-old is expected to leave Stamford Bridge this summer.

Interest from a number of clubs has emerged, with an agreement said to be close between the Blues and Atletico for Gallagher and Joao Félix. However, Atletico have threatened to cancel the deal for the energetic midfielder, with Spurs, as well as Aston Villa, said to be 'keeping on eye' on the situation.

Spurs Could Hijack Atletico's Gallagher Move

Postecoglou admires the player

After successive loan spells in the Premier League with West Bromwich Albion and Crystal Palace, Gallagher finally found his way into the Chelsea first team in the 2022/23 season. However, it was the most recent campaign that saw the Surrey-born man rise to prominence and ultimately secure his place in Gareth Southgate's England squad for the Euros.

Operating as part of a midfield three, often with Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo, Gallagher became a staple in the middle of the park for the Blues last campaign. Now, months of speculation suggesting both Spurs and Villa want to sign the player has culminated in the idea that his departure from Stamford Bridge is inevitable. Some decisions extend beyond what happens on the pitch, and it appears Gallagher may become a victim of this.

After being ostracised from Enzo Maresca's squad in pre-season, it looked as though a deal involving Samu Omorodion going the other way from Atletico Madrid was all but complete. However, a failure to reach an agreement on Omorodion making his way to West London has possibly jeopardised the deal.

Football Insider report that Ange Postecoglou is a huge admirer of Gallagher and retains optimism that the Lillywhites could make a last minute swoop for the England international. However, the same report suggests that Atletico still expect to land their man, with a rejuvenated proposal involving Felix taking shape.

Given the £50k-a-week earning Gallagher has already undergone a medical in Madrid, it would take a dramatic collapse for the deal to not materialise. However, Spurs' long-standing interest would put them in a good position to pounce if things do fall apart with Atletico.

Spurs Eyeing Locatelli

The midfielder could be surplus to requirements under Thiago Motta

The continued pursuit of Gallagher does suggest that Postecoglou's priority in the remainder of the window is adding a midfielder to his ranks. Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg has departed for Marseille, while Oliver Skipp is set to join Leicester City.

These departures, as well as new signing Archie Gray being expected to cover right-back frequently, perhaps leaves the Australian head coach depleted in the middle of the park. Subsequently, the North London side are plotting a move for Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli. The Italian featured regularly for the Old Lady last season, but could be deemed surplus to requirements this campaign under new manager Thiago Motta.

Highlights

Leicester City earned a hard-fought draw against Tottenham Hotspur, with Jamie Vardy scoring a crucial equaliser in the second half.

Tottenham dominated early on with pressure and chances and got their reward when Pedro Porro opened the scoring in the first half.

Wilfried Ndidi was a standout performer for Leicester, but James Maddison ran the show for Tottenham.

Leicester City secured a point in their first match back in the Premier League as Jamie Vardy scored in the second half to secure a 1-1 draw against Tottenham Hotspur.

Those expecting a Tottenham whitewash in this game will have been off to a good start in their predictions, as Spurs came flying out of the blocks with a suffocating spell of pressure. Leicester rode the wave as long as they could, with Tottenham having a mound of corners and big chances in the opening thirty minutes, which featured a fine save from Mads Hermansen to deny Brennan Johnson and a fine clearance off the line by Wilfried Ndidi. But their resolve was soon broken when James Maddison picked out the advancing Pedro Porro with a delightful whip into the box, with the Spaniard glancing an accurate header beyond the goalkeeper to get the scoring underway for the season.

The second half began much the same way, with Johnson and the debuting Dom Solanke seeing themselves denied by a resilitent Leicester defence, and those chances were made to be rued as a lovely counter from Leicester saw the ball fall to Fatuwu on the far side, who clipped a delightful ball into the area for Vardy to turn home from close range.

The Leicester striker had another chance soon after, racing clean through on goal only to be denied by Vicario, who was called into action later on in stoppage time to deny Wilfried Ndidi, who had a superb showing for Leicester.

Leicester hardly played for the draw, looking to break with regularity right until the end, but a sternly improved defensive shift from Jannik Vestergaard and Wout Faes ensured that the Foxes would anchor a point to the floor of the East Midland's blue corner. Although they were helped by Richarlison missing a sitter at the death.

Match Highlights

Leicester City Player Ratings

GK - Mads Hermansen - 5/10

Was a busy man, keeping out Johnson with a good stop in the first and Solanke in the second. A touch wasteful with his passing.

RB - James Justin - 6/10

Troubled constantly by the threat of Son, but managed it well, all things considered. Was very accurate with his crosses into the area, with Vardy finding some joy from them.

CB - Wout Faes - 7/10

Had very little joy against Solanke in the first half, but improved alongside Vestergaard, particularly with the accuracy of his passing. Made some key interventions toward the end.

CB - Jannik Vestergaard - 7/10

Couldn't deal with Spurs' tempo, pace and physicality in the first half, but improved very well in the second, particularly with some nice line-breaking passes as Leicester began to turn the tide.

LB - Victor Kristiansen - 7/10

Didn't add much in the first half, but was key in the second as Leicester roared into contention. Some lovely balls into the box, and coped well with the considerable pace of Johnson.

LCM - Harry Winks - 6/10

Did very little to retaliate against the Tottenham midfield triumvirate in the defensive phase, and completely lost Johnson in the box for one particularly big Spurs chance. Was accurate with a lot of his passes when Leicester got room to breath, and added some lovely passes forward when Leicester improved.

RCM - Wilfried Ndidi - 8/10

An excellent clearance off the line in the first half and some choice break-ups of play to keep Leicester in the contest. A real physical element that Leicester needed. Almost won it for Leicester at the start of added time.

AM - Facundo Buoanotte - 7/10

A real spark during the match. Worked relentlessly off the ball and showed some real quality while on it. Quieted down a touch in the second half.

LW - Bobby Decordova-Reid - 5/10

Didn't have much joy up against Porro. Drowned out almost immediately every time he got a touch, and didn't provide much when he found the rare chance.

RW - Abdul Fatuwu - 8/10

Lacked the final pass here and there in the first half, but clipped a lovely ball in for Vardy to grab a stunning equaliser and found a decent share of joy against Udogie. Was a vital spark going forward for Leicester.

ST - Jamie Vardy - 7/10

Was kept quiet in general, but he only needs one, doesn't he? Delivered home from close range with an ode to his poachers' instincts. Almost grabbed himself a second when sent through on goal, but was denied well by Vicario. Back in the Premier League with a bang.

Sub - Stephy Mavididi - 4/10

Brought on with 11 minutes to go and didn't have time to impact the game.

Sub - Boubakary Soumare - 4/10

Similarly to Mavididi, he didn't have much time to make his mark on the tie.

Sub - Kasey McAteer - 5/10

Also brought on with 11 minutes left but looked lively.

Tottenham Player Ratings

GK - Guglielmo Vicario - 6/10

Had little to do in the first half and was helpless for Leicester's leveller. Made a great stop to deny Vardy from making it 2-1 just beyond the 70th.

RB - Pedro Porro - 7/10

Didn't have much to do defensively in the first half, but struggled in places when Leicester got going. Got Spurs off the mark with a lovely header from Maddison's ball in, but lost Vardy for Leicester's leveller.

CB - Cristian Romero - 7/10

Crisp with his long passes forward and looked terribly un-threatened when Leicester triggered their press. Calm showing.

CB - Micky Van de Ven - 8/10

Showed plenty of desire to get forward and support. Was comfortable in possession and had the better of the Leicester attack every time.

LB - Destiny Udogie - 6/10

Looked confident as ever going forward, but lost Fatuwu a fair few times throughout.

RCM - Pape Matar Sarr - 8/10

Battled very well in midfield when Leicester got the rare chance to come forward, and knocked some lovely passes forward when Spurs got up.

LCM - James Maddison - 9/10

Picked out Porro amidst the Leicester low block to open the score. Was a joy to watch in tandem with Son on the left, and was constantly keeping his former side guessing with incisive passing and clever movement.

CM - Rodrigo Bentancur - 7/10

Accurate with his passing and handy in the duel. Did the link-up job well. Withdrawn following a nasty head injury from a corner just beyond the 70th minute. We wish him all the best.

LW - Son Heung-Min - 7/10

Constantly threatening down the left-hand side, and linked up superbly down the flank throughout with Maddison and Udogie.

RW - Brennan Johnson - 7/10

Plenty of pace and energy down the right flank, providing a constant thorn in Leicester's side.

ST - Dominic Solanke - 6/10

A spirited debut. Had the better of the Foxes' centre-backs on several occasions with good, physical play. Should have put one of his chances away.

Sub - Archie Gray - 5/10

Didn't have much time to make an impact, but looked composed and confident on debut.

Sub - Timo Werner - 4/10

Didn't have time to make an impact.

Sub - Lucas Bergvall - 5/10

Didn't have time to make an impact, save for a few smart flicks that showed his potential, but also a careless disposession that almost cost his side in added time.

Sub - Dejan Kulusevski - 4/10

Didn't have time to make an impact.

Sub - Djed Spence - N/A

On as a late sub for a rare Tottenham appearance. Didn't have much time to change the game.

Sub - Richarlison - N/A

Didn't have much time to make an impact, but almost did at the death with a header from close range that he could not convert.

Player of the Match - James Maddison

He might have been predicted to be one of the most disappointing players of the season, but Maddison was a constant threat to the defense of his former side, carving out plenty of eye-catching chances that weren't taken and one that was. A delightful ball, so it was, into the area for Porro to get Spurs off of the mark at the King Power Stadium, and he was adept with his set-pieces to keep Leicester guessing. He deserved to be on the winning side.

A special mention must also be reserved for Fatuwu and Ndidi of Leicester City, who were both vital cogs to Leicester's return to life in the fixture.

Tottenham Hotspur are delighted with Lucas Bergvall’s impact and are still considering whether to bring in a new midfielder ahead of the transfer deadline, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has exclusively told GIVEMESPORT.

The 2006-born midfielder has impressed since his arrival from Djurgarden in July and may have influenced Ange Postecoglou’s summer plans ahead of Spurs’ season opener against Leicester City tonight.

With 10 days of the transfer window still to go, Tottenham are expected to be active in the market, following the club-record signing of Dominic Solanke earlier this month.

The North London giants have finalised five signings so far, with Bergvall, Solanke, Wilson Odobert, Archie Gray and Yang Min-hyeok joining on long-term deals.

As many as 11 players have departed in a massive summer clear-out before Postecoglou’s second season at the helm, including Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Emerson Royal and Bryan Gil.

Despite rumours of a new arrival in midfield, it seems that Bergvall’s signing in particular may have altered Tottenham’s thinking ahead of the transfer deadline.

Bergvall’s Impact Hailed as ‘Excellent’

Deemed ready for the Premier League

Speaking to GMS, Romano suggested Spurs are yet to make up their minds on whether to bolster their options in the middle of the park, after Bergvall impressed Postecoglou in pre-season.

“They are very happy with Lucas Bergvall, the impact of Bergvall has been excellent, and they believe they signed a top, top talent for present and future, ready for Premier League impact.

“So they are still considering that internally.”

Spurs have often come under criticism for their recruitment, but in recent years have improved massively in that regard, and Bergvall’s acquisition could soon prove the point once more.

One of the most exciting young players in Europe, Bergvall was signed by Spurs back in January after they hijacked Barcelona’s pursuit of the attacking midfielder and convinced him to join Ange Postecoglou’s project.

Described as ‘a silky and elegant dribbler', Bergvall is coming off an impressive 18-month stint in the Swedish top division, where he made 37 appearances for Djurgarden, scoring five goals and assisting two.

In January, the promising starlet made his Sweden national team debut – aged just 17, he came off the bench in a 2-1 friendly victory against Estonia.

Tottenham ‘Prepare Offer’ for Vanderson

Lined-up as a replacement for Emerson Royal

Tottenham are interested in acquiring AS Monaco defender Vanderson and are preparing an offer of around £27 million, according to journalist Bruno Andrade.

Spurs seem to have identified the 23-year-old Brazilian as a perfect replacement for his compatriot Emerson Royal, who joined AC Milan earlier this month.

Keen to bring in competition for Pedro Porro, Spurs are now willing to test the waters with an initial bid for Vanderson, who still has four years left on his current deal with Monaco.

The attacking right-back endured a difficult 2023/24 campaign as he struggled with injuries and made just 20 appearances in Ligue 1, scoring three goals.