CaughtOffside

Jamie O’Hara has made the bold claim that Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven would ‘walk into Manchester City’s team’.

Van de Ven has caught the eye since joining Spurs from Wolfsburg in the summer of 2023, with his pace proving an invaluable asset to Ange Postecoglou’s defence.

Unfortunately, the Netherlands international has suffered lengthy absences with hamstring injuries, which are common for extremely fast players.

But that hasn’t stopped Van de Ven from becoming very popular among Spurs supporters, while he’s even drawn links to perennial European champions Real Madrid.

Is Micky van de Ven ‘world-class’?

Whether or not Van de Ven can be truly labelled ‘world-class’ is a matter of debate, most recently between former Spurs midfielder and his talkSPORT co-host Dean Saunders.

But O’Hara is adamant he would be a sure starter under Pep Guardiola at Man City.

O’Hara and Saunders came to blows over Van de Ven in the following conversation (transcribed by TBR):

Jamie O’Hara: “I think Van de Ven is a world-class player.”

Dean Saunders: “Van de Ven? He has had one season playing in the high line. World class? Van de Ven?”

Jamie O’Hara: “Van de Ven is world-class.”

Dean Saunders: “He ain’t getting in Manchester City’s team. He is not getting in Liverpool’s.”

Jamie O’Hara: “What are you talking about? He would walk straight into Manchester City’s team. He walks into it.”

Dean Saunders: “No chance.”

Jamie O’Hara: “He walks into any team.”

Dean Saunders: “He needs to show for a couple of years yet that he can keep playing in the Premier League at that level without making mistakes. No mistakes. Top players don’t make mistakes.”

Jamie O’Hara: “Of course, they do.”

Dean Saunders: “Van Dijk hardly makes a mistake. He does now and again, but not as many as others. And that’s why he is Van Dijk. Konate doesn’t make that many mistakes. Man City’s centre-backs.”

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly considering a surprising move to bring former midfielder Harry Winks back to the club during the upcoming January transfer window.

Following an active summer transfer window, Spurs are now targeting experienced additions to their midfield. According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, Tottenham are “determined” to re-sign Winks, a move that could result in a net financial loss of approximately £22 million compared to his initial transfer fee.

Reports suggest that the North London club is prepared to pay around €38m (£32m) to secure the services of the 28-year-old midfielder, who is currently excelling at Leicester City.

Winks has been a key figure for Leicester City since joining them in July last year on a three-year contract for around £10 million.

Winks made his debut in a 2-1 victory over Coventry City and delivered a standout performance against Norwich City, where he achieved an impressive 100% passing accuracy.

His contributions were instrumental in Leicester’s Championship-winning campaign last season, which secured their return to the Premier League and also marked Winks’ first major trophy win.

His performances with Leicester have attracted interest from other top clubs as well, with Manchester United also recently linked with a move for the Englishman.

Harry WInks: Time at Tottenham Hotspur

Winks’ journey with Spurs began in their youth academy and saw him progress to the senior team, where he became a reliable midfield option, particularly under former manager Mauricio Pochettino.

His time at the club included standout moments such as starting in the 2019 Champions League final. Throughout his time at Spurs, he made 203 appearances, contributing five goals and six assists.

Re-signing Winks would not only bolster Tottenham’s midfield depth but also enhance their quota of homegrown players—a critical aspect of squad building in the Premier League.

That said, knowing Daniel Levy and his strong focus on the finances in every decision, it is unlikely that he will sanction a move that will see the club suffer a significant loss.

Tottenham Hotspur are keen on signing the Brighton defender Tariq Lamptry.

According to Football Transfers, the 24-year-old will be a free agent at the end of the season, and Brighton could sell him in January to recoup some money from his departure.

Tottenham are looking to secure his services for a knockdown price and it remains to be seen whether they can get a deal across the line. They will face competition from Everton and West Ham United.

The 24-year-old was highly rated in the Premier League a few seasons ago, but his development seems to have stalled. Regardless, Lamptey remains a talented young defender with impressive potential and he could develop into an important player for Tottenham in the long term.

Pedro Porro has been linked to the move to Real Madrid and Tottenham are probably preparing for contingencies if the Spanish international decides to move on in the near future. Lamptey is capable of operating as the right back, left back as well as a wing-back. Apart from his defensive qualities, he is quite impressive going forward as well.

Lamptey could be a useful option

With the right guidance, he could be a key player for Tottenham in future. The opportunity to join Tottenham will be quite attractive for the player as well. He might get to compete in European football with them and fight for trophies.

Tottenham have a talented squad at their disposal, but they need to add more depth in order to truly compete with the elite clubs. Players like Lamptey could prove to be very useful options for them.

With Brighton looking to sell, agreeing on a deal should not be difficult for Tottenham. They have the resources to get the deal done, and it remains to be seen whether all parties can come to an agreement soon.

Although Chelsea are seven places ahead of London rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League table just three points separate them, and both clubs will rival the other for the signature of a talented Premier League centre-back.

CaughtOffside sources have indicated that despite Bournemouth having only recently tied down Ilya Zabarnyi to a deal which keeps him with the Cherries until 2029, they will listen to clubs willing to offer around £50m for the Ukrainian.

Tottenham and Chelsea want Zabarnyi

Sources indicate that the North Londoners have been tracking the player for a while and are eager to add him to their squad.

Ange Postecoglou certainly has the Lilywhites playing some of their best football in many a year, however, the same could be said of Enzo Maresca’s impact at Stamford Bridge.

The Italian is also thought to be a huge fan of the defender’s playing capabilities and would make room for him in an ever-expanding Chelsea squad.

Of course, Bournemouth’s financial demands are factors that could complicate the transfer process, notwithstanding that sources further advance that both Tottenham and Chelsea are apparently willing to meet those requirements.

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Chelsea are already looking at beating Arsenal to one of their prime targets, whilst Tottenham could agree a pre-contract with a former Man United ace.

Zabarnyi has played in all 11 of Bournemouth’s Premier League games this season (transfermarkt), and his excellence in defence has see the South Coast side beat reigning champions Man City amongst others.

Andoni Iraola and his board clearly see the player as someone that should be staying at the club for the longer term, but are not in a position to keep him if any of their opponents come up with an offer that they can’t refuse.

From the player’s point of view, sources understand that he would be willing to make the move to the capital but is equally content at the Vitality Stadium, should any of the rumours come to nothing.

Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur are keen on signing the Real Sociedad winger Takefusa Kubo.

The 23-year-old winger has attracted the attention of the top European clubs with his performances for the La Liga club, and it will be interesting to see if the likes of Liverpool at Tottenham can lure him away from Spain.

As per Fichajes, the winger has a €60 million release clause in his contract, and it will be interesting to see if the English clubs are willing to pay up. Real Sociedad are unlikely to let him leave for cheap. He is a key player for them, and he has a contract with the club until the summer of 2029.

Liverpool could certainly use a young winger like him, especially if Mohamed Salah decides to move on. Kubo operates in a similar role to that of the Egyptian international. He has attributes to develop into a top quality player in future and he could be an asset for Liverpool in the long term.

Meanwhile, Tottenham could look to add more depth to their attacking unit. The 23-year-old will certainly add unpredictability to their attack. He has shown his quality in Spanish football, and there is no doubt that he has the technical attributes to make a big difference in the Premier League as well.

Kubo might fancy Premier League switch

The opportunity to play in England could be quite attractive for the Japanese international and it remains to be seen where he ends up. Both clubs will be attractive destinations for him. They could provide him with the platform to fight for major trophies in the coming seasons.

Liverpool and Tottenham need to improve their squads if they want to fight for major trophies consistently and signings like Kubo will certainly help them progress.

Tottenham have been linked with a move for former Manchester United midfielder Angel Gomes next summer.

With his current contract expiring in the summer, the player will be free to speak to other clubs in January ahead of a potential free transfer in the summer.

Spurs insider John Wenham has now backed the club to sign a pre-contract with the player as his current contract with Lille comes close to expiration.

Gomes is an exciting young talent who has been on the radar of several clubs recently. A product of Manchester United academy, Gomes made his first-team debut at just 16 years old, displaying his flair and technical ability. However, he struggled to secure a regular spot in the senior side, and was eventually moved to Ligue 1 with Lille in 2020, where he was given a fresh platform to grow.

His performances in the 2022-23 season, showed his ability to play in a competitive league, further developing his game and earning a reputation as one of the brightest young players in Europe.

A versatile attacking midfielder, Gomes has the ability to operate in central or wide positions, adding dynamism to any team.

John Wenham says Tottenham could agree a pre-contract with Angel Gomes

He has started to attract interest from several top clubs, including Spurs, Arsenal and Chelsea. Tottenham insider, John Wenham has backed the club to sign a pre-contract with him despite interest from London rivals.

Speaking to Tottenham News, the club insider said:

“Gomes would count as homegrown, as he came through Manchester United’s academy.

“He would be available on a free transfer next summer. Therefore, Tottenham could agree a pre-contract with him in January.

“By signing him for free and agreeing a five-year contract with him, he would be worth £15million right away, simply based on the value attached to that contract.”

Tottenham have been said to be interested in signing another midfielder, despite having the likes of Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray. And Gomes could turn out to be a decent signing for Ange’s side.

Tottenham defender Pedro Porro has admitted to being happy with the rumours linking him to some of “the best clubs in the world” as uncertainty continues to grow around his future in North London.

The full-back arrived at Spurs in 2023 as part of €45m deal with Sporting CP and has grown to become a fan favourite at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium due to his very attacking style of play.

The Spanish star has proven to be one of the most dangerous full-backs in Europe going forward and across the 67 appearances he has made for Tottenham, the 25-year-old has contributed eight goals and 12 assists.

Porro has a contract in North London until 2028 but that has not stopped the right-back from being linked with a move away next summer.

Real Madrid are in the market to strengthen the right side of their defence and following the long-term injury to Dani Carvajal, Porro is one of the names being linked to the La Liga champions – although Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold tops Los Blancos‘ list.

Man City are another interested in the 25-year-old as they look for a successor to Kyle Walker at the Etihad Stadium.

In a recent interview, Porro has acknowledged these rumours and his words don’t bode well for his future at Tottenham.

Tottenham star Pedro Porro acknowledges exit rumours

Speaking in an interview with El Desmarque, Porro admitted to being aware of the rumours linking him away from Tottenham and essentially stated that he is happy to be associated with “the best clubs in the world.”

“My friends send me the rumours, it is a compliment… but I am focused on Spurs and the national team,” the defender said via Fabrizio Romano. “It is the result of a job well done if one of the best clubs in the world is taking notice of me.”

It is unlikely that Tottenham will allow one of their best players to leave next summer as the North London club continues to try and close the gap to the top of the Premier League and if they do, it will not come cheap for the Spaniard’s suitors.

Tottenham Hotspur have set their sights on the move in 2025 for Argentine playmaker Facundo Buonanotte, who is enjoy a fine start to the Premier League season with Leicester City. The 19-year-old, who is currently on loan at the King Power Stadium from Brighton and Hove Albion, has three goals and two assists in nine appearances so far this campaign.

Buonanotte left Brighton during the summer in order to play regular first team football. He was linked with Feyenoord and Celtic, but he opted to remain in the Premier League with Leicester, whom he has thrived with the last three months.

His form has led to transfer speculation increasing, and Tottenham are one of the clubs that have registered their interest. There has been doubts about the performances of James Maddison in recent weeks, and Buonanotte is someone that could compete sufficiently with the England international.

Brighton determined to keep Buonanotte as asking price set

According to Fichajes, Brighton would only consider selling Buonanotte if they were to receive an offer of €50m – this is significantly higher than his market valuation, which is set at €18m. Nevertheless, it shows how highly the teenager is valued at the AMEX Stadium, where he has been (prior to this season) since joining from Rosario Central in January 2023.

Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with a surprise move for the Manchester City midfielder Jack Grealish.

The 29-year-old has struggled for game time at Manchester City this season and he has been linked with a move away from the club. According to football transfers, Tottenham director Johan Lange has held talks regarding a potential move for the England international.

He has been linked with a return to Aston Villa as well.

It will be interesting to see if Tottenham decide to make a move for him in the coming weeks. The 29-year-old could be a quality player for them if he manages to regain his confidence and sharpness. However, Tottenham already have players like James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski, and Son Heung-min, who are capable of operating in a role similar to that of him. Jack Grealish might struggle for regular game time at the North London club as well.

The 29-year-old needs to join a club where he will play regularly. He is at the peak of his powers and regular football could bring out the best in him once again. He was highly rated in the Premier League during his time at Aston Villa. However, he has not managed to reach that level in recent seasons.

Man City must accept a substantial loss

Manchester City paid around £100 million to sign the player from Aston Villa and it will be interesting to see if they are prepared to sanction his departure in the coming months. Spurs will not want to pay a premium for him, and the Premier League champions might have to cut their losses on the player and sanction his departure for a knockdown price.

Johan Lange was the director at Aston Villa when Grealish joined Manchester City and it remains to be seen whether he can play a crucial role in bringing the player to Tottenham now. It will be interesting to see how the situation develops.

Tottenham Hotspur defender Sergio Reguilon wants to leave the club in January so that he can play regular first-team football once again.

The 27-year-old defender has not been included in the Premier League or Europa League matchday squads at Tottenham Hotspur this season, and he plans to terminate his contract with the club in January, sources have informed CaughtOffside.

Reguilon is looking for a new challenge where he can gain more playing time and regain his peak form.

Sevilla, where Reguilon previously spent a successful loan spell, want to bring him back to La Liga. The club value his experience and see him as an important addition to their defence as they aim to strengthen their squad for the second half of the season.

Getafe are also interested in acquiring Reguilon on a free transfer. Both clubs are ready to start negotiations with Tottenham and Reguilon’s representatives. Returning to La Liga could be ideal for the defender. He knows the league well and he might be able to settle in quickly and impress with his performances.

Tottenham ready to let Sergio Reguilon leave

Tottenham support Reguilon’s decision to leave because his departure will help the club reduce its wage budget. Savings on their substantial weekly wages will provide financial flexibility for possible new signings or contract renewals for other important players.

Tottenham have adequate depth in the left-back department and they will not be able to provide the Spaniard with ample opportunities. It would be ideal for the two parties to go their separate ways. Destiny Udogie and Ben Davies are ahead of Reguilon in the pecking order and the North London club will be keen to get rid of the player in January.

The 27-year-old has plenty of time to get his career back on track and establish himself as an important player for Sevilla or Getafe.