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Tottenham Hotspur reportedly face a major battle with a few of their Premier League rivals for one of their top midfield targets.

Tottenham eyeing move for Bundesliga starlet

It has been widely reported over recent weeks that Tottenham are looking to make additions to their midfield in January, and one man who has caught their eye is a young Swede who is turning a lot of heads in the Bundesliga.

The player in question is Hugo Larsson, who is quickly emerging as a star at Eintracht Frankfurt, with Florian Plettenberg revealing earlier this month that Tottenham are one of the sides keen on landing the player.

However, the journalist explained that Frankfurt want to keep the 20-year-old until the summer, and are well protected since his contract at the club runs until 2029.

Competition for Hugo Larsson intensifies

Christian Falk has now offered an update on Larsson’s future in his Daily Briefing, with the journalist revealing that Spurs have been keeping an eye on the youngster since April.

However, he explains that the Lilywhites might now have to contend with competition from both Arsenal and Liverpool for the midfielder.

The journalist claims that it would take an offer of £70m to prise the Swedish nternational away from Deutsche Bank Park.

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Falk adds that of the three Premier League clubs, Liverpool could be the most serious suitor for Larsson as the Reds were keen to sign a deep-lying playmaker in the summer.

Will Tottenham get involved in the race for Larsson?

If Falk’s latest information is to be believed, Tottenham would have to shatter their transfer record to land Larsson.

As talented as the Swede is, it remains to be seen if Spurs would spend £70m on a position where they are fairly well stocked with Yves Bissouma, Rodrigo Bentancur and Archie Gray.

Ange Postecoglou might prioritise reinforcing his defence and signing a direct winger in January.

Jamie O’Hara has offered an honest response on whether Heung-min Son still belongs in the same bracket as the elite players in world football at the moment.

Are Heung-min Son’s powers on the wane?

Some Spurs fans may feel that Heung-min Son is now slightly past his peak, with the South Korean not appearing to strike fear into the heart of defences like he once did during his younger years.

The 32-year-old is not as keen on taking on his opponent as he once was and his pace has dropped a tad bit, but his ball-striking ability is still among the best in the world, which is why the captain has six goal contributions in eight league games so far this season.

Those numbers demonstrate the forward remains a key player for Ange Postecoglou’s side, who look a lot more threatening when he is on the pitch.

Jamie O’Hara makes claim about Son

However, O’Hara is not convinced that the Tottenham captain is as good as he was a few years ago. The pundit insisted that while Son is a Spurs legend, the ‘world-class’ label does not apply to him any more.

The pundit said on talkSPORT: “He (Son) was. He is not world-class now. I think he has been a world-class player. He is not world-class anymore. Listen, I am not disrespecting the guy. He is a legend, I love him. And when he plays, he makes us better, but he is not world-class.”

Any manager would love to have Son in their team

There are very few players who are as effective as Son when it comes to passing or shooting with either foot, and the Spurs star still has the sharpness and the quick feet to make a yard for himself.

That is why he remains one of the most dangerous players across the Premier League in the final third.

Son gets into any starting eleven across the division, including Manchester City’s and Liverpool’s. That, by definition, makes him a world-class player.

One reliable Tottenham man receives plaudits from the national media after delivering a top performance to help the side salvage a point in the Nations League.

Tottenham’s Mr Reliable is increasingly a fringe player

Ben Davies has been a fantastic servant for Tottenham, always delivering solid displays whenever called upon.

That is the reason why the likes of Mauricio Pochettino, Jose Mourinho, Antonio Conte, and now Ange Postecoglou, have all considered him to be an important squad player.

However, the 31-year-old has used very sparingly so far this season, having featured in just one Premier League game as a substitute in Tottenham’s 4-1 win over Aston Villa.

Ben Davies shines for Wales

Despite his situation at Spurs, the Tottenham man remains one of Wales’ most important players and is still one of the first names on the teamsheet for Wales, where he also wears the captain’s armband.

Davies started as a centre-back alongside his former Spurs teammate Joe Rodon for Craig Bellamy’s side in Turkey on Saturday, as the away side managed to emerge with a 0-0 draw.

The result means Wales remain in second place in Group 4 of League B, two points behind Turkey

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The Neath-born product was praised for his flawless display, with WalesOnline giving him a rating of eight out of 10, and writing: “Read the Turkish attack beautifully at times. Felt like he was in the way of everything that came his way.”

Does Ben Davies deserve a contract Spurs extension?

Davies is into the final year of his contract and will be a free agent next summer, but one would think that Postecoglou would not be opposed to giving the defender an extension.

Every squad needs players like the former Swansea player, who is a model professional who never sulks when being left out and always gives his all when he is called upon.

Despite interest in one La Liga star continuing to intensify, it has now been reported that Tottenham Hotspur are expected to have a huge say on where the player ends up come the end of the summer transfer window.

Spurs have option to sign midfielder

As part of the agreement to sell Giovani Lo Celso to Real Betis, Spurs secured a £25m option to sign Betis midfielder Johnny Cardoso next summer.

The 23-year-old won several admirers with his solid displays in the base of the Betis midfield last season, but strangely, he has not been an automatic starter for Manuel Pellegrini’s side so far this campaign.

However, this has not put off his potential admirers, many of whom are allegedly considering a move for the midfielder in January.

Tottenham will have a huge say on Cardoso’s future

The latest update on the USA international’s future comes from Estadio Deportivo who say that the race for the 23-year-old’s signature is continuing to intensify.

The report claims that Betis are eyeing a ‘big sale’ of Cardoso, with AC Milan, Atletico Madrid and Aston Villa showing interest in making a move for the player.

However, they point out that Spurs will ‘have a lot to say’ on the midfielder’s future, given the option that they hold to buy him next summer.

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Fitness concerns for Cardoso?

Meanwhile, the same Spanish news outlet also claims there are some concerns over Cardoso’s fitness after he came off injured in the United States clash with Jamaica after suffering a blow to his left knee.

While there have not been any updates on the nature of his injury, if it is severe, it might impact his chances of making a big move in January.

Dr Rajpal Brar, a doctor in physical therapy and a sports scientist, believes that one Tottenham Hotspur player could be a long time away from returning to action.

Richarlison’s injury woes have continued

Richarlison had had a disastrous 2024, having picked up one injury after another in quick succession, which has meant he has hardly played any decent amount of football since the start of the year.

The Brazilian’s latest blow came in Tottenham’s 4-1 win over Aston Villa earlier this month, with his hamstring giving way just as he was laying on an assist for Dominic Solanke.

The 27-year-old was understandably devastated at the development, taking to social media to ask everyone to pray for him.

Injury expert estimates Richarlison’s recovery time

Tottenham have not provided an official update on how long Richarlison is going to be out for, but the signs are not promising.

Dr Rajpal Brar believes that the Tottenham man has suffered a grade three or grade four muscular injury, and could be sidelined for months.

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He told Tottenham News about the striker: “This sounds like a Grade 3 or 4 hamstring injury which would mean months away.

“Unfortunately, he looks to be caught in a vicious injury cycle at the moment.

“His training return will be one of methodically ramping up his strength and conditioning along with sport-specific activities and then gradually getting him game minutes.”

Tottenham confirmed Wilson Odobert underwent hamstring surgery earlier this week in a bid to rectify the issues he has experienced since his move from Burnley.

Has Richarlison played his last game for Spurs?

While Richarlison deserves our sympathy, Postecoglou would undoubtedly be thinking that he needs another striker who he can rely upon to be fit and available.

One should not be surprised if the club bring another versatile forward through the door in January, which might represent the end of Richarlison’s time in North London.

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly looking to re-sign one of their academy graduates, who left the club in the summer of 2023.

Tottenham are eyeing a midfield addition

It has been widely reported that Spurs wish to bolster their midfield in January and the latest to make that claim are Fichajes, who say that Ange Postecoglou‘s side are on the look out for box-to-box midfielders.

Rather surprisingly, it is claimed that the one player who has caught their eye this season is one who they let go last year.

The player in question is Harry Winks, who has been impressive on his return to the Premier League this season.

Tottenham are said to be determined to complete the deal

The outlet explains that Spurs are ‘determined’ to re-sign their former player and are willing to pay £32m for his services, which would represent a £22m loss on the £10m fee they got from Leicester for the player last year.

It is explained that Spurs have been impressed with the maturity that Winks has shown at the King Power Stadium, with the club believing that his ‘vision, ability to distribute and recover the ball’ could be an asset again in N17.

In fact, it is asserted that Tottenham see Winks as an ‘ideal option’ and believe the 28-year-old could bring more dynamism and balance to their midfield.

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Leicester’s stance on Harry Winks

However, Fichajes make it clear that the Foxes will not let go of Winks easily, given that he has been a mainstay of their side.

Leicester head coach Steve Cooper has reportedly made it clear to the club’s hierarchy that he wants the former Tottenham man to be retained at all costs.

Finally, the publication adds that with an offer potentially set to arrive from Spurs, Winks’ future could be determined over the coming weeks.

The Athletic’s James Maw believes that Ange Postecoglou needs one of his senior men to turn around his form quickly in order to help Tottenham push up the table.

Tottenham star has had a poor start to the season

Cristian Romero appeared like he had turned a corner following Ange Postecoglou‘s arrival, being one of Tottenham’s most consistent players across the campaign.

However, the Argentine has failed to replicate the same form at the start of the campaign, making several unforced errors which have resulted in goals.

This comes at a time when reports suggest that the centre-back is hesitant to sign a new contract with Tottenham as he is tempted by the possibility of moving to Real Madrid if the La Liga giants come calling for him next summer.

Ange Postecoglou needs Cristian Romero to step up

James Maw believes that Romero’s poor form at the start of the season is a big reason why Tottenham have not been able to pick up wins consistently.

The journalist suggested that the Spurs boss desperately needs his vice-captain to return to the levels he showed last season.

Maw told The Athletic: “After April’s 3-2 defeat by Arsenal, Ange Postecoglou singled out Romero — a goalscorer on the day — as a role model for the rest of his squad.

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“Yet the Argentine’s performances this season have been anything but an example to his team-mates. Once famed for his tenacious and determined defending, Romero has often looked meek and unfocused, and could reasonably be blamed for a fair few of the goals Spurs have conceded.

“With Micky van de Ven injured and Spurs now languishing in 10th (admittedly three points off third), Postecoglou badly needs Romero to rediscover his best form.”

Romero is having to battle an unfair reputation

Romero will be the first player to concede that he has not been at his best this season, given the high standards that he sets for himself.

However, the defender has always had to fight the perception among some Spurs fans that he only cares about doing well for Argentina and is not as bothered about giving his all for the club.

It is unfair to put the 26-year-old’s bad form down to a lack of focus or motivation as he always puts his body on the line whenever he wears the Tottenham shirt.

Paul Robinson believes that Tottenham Hotspur will be frustrated in their efforts to lure one young midfielder away from their Premier League rivals.

Tottenham have been linked with Facundo Buonanotte

Facundo Buonanotte has had an outstanding start to his loan spell at Leicester City, having established himself as one of the first names on the Foxes’ team sheet under Steve Cooper.

The youngster’s displays have reportedly not gone unnoticed in North London, with Tottenham linked with a move for Buonanotte earlier this week.

However, it was explained that Brighton have earmarked a role for the 19-year-old in Fabian Hurzeler’s set-up when he returns to the Amex Stadium next summer following his stint with the Foxes.

Paul Robinson sceptical about Tottenham’s transfer pursuit

Robinson is not surprised to hear the likes of Tottenham are reportedly eyeing a move for Buonanotte, yet he is of the opinion that the Seagulls will not let the Argentine international leave on a permanent basis next summer.

When asked about the speculation over the teenager’s future, the former Tottenham goalkeeper told Football Insider: “He’s been very impressive since his loan move from Brighton. I don’t see Brighton having any inclination of selling Buonanatte.

“Leicester would be interested in signing him on a permanent basis. There’s been other big clubs who’ve been linked with him as well, the likes of Tottenham and Borussia Dortmund.

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“But he just looks like another gem that Brighton have signed and one that they’re probably going to develop into a major Premier League star. Brighton are really winning out of this deal because he’s playing regularly for Leicester in the Premier League and he’ll just go back to Brighton as a better player.”

Brighton will sell Buonanotte for the right fee

We know that Brighton’s business model is based on selling players for a profit, which is why every player in their squad has a price.

However, Tottenham may have to break their transfer record to sign the young attacking midfielder if he continues developing in the same vein at Leicester over the rest of the season.

The interest in his services is likely to intensify and we might see a major bidding war for the player next summer.

When discussing Tottenham Hotspur’s prolonged absence from lifting silverware, it is impossible to overlook Daniel Levy’s tenure.

While the Spurs chairman has built a reputation as a shrewd businessman, his decisions as a football custodian have often drawn ire from fans. Could his leadership be the root cause of Spurs’ barren spell?

Tottenham’s trophy cabinet under Levy

Tottenham Hotspur, once celebrated for their domestic and European exploits, have seen their silverware tally stall under Daniel Levy. Since his appointment as chairman in 2001, Spurs have lifted only one major trophy: the League Cup in 2008, under Juande Ramos. This drought is particularly glaring given that Levy has overseen 12 permanent managerial appointments, with renowned names such as Jose Mourinho and Antonio Conte among them, alongside interim caretakers.

While Spurs have flirted with success, they have fallen short at critical moments. Their run to the 2019 Champions League final under Mauricio Pochettino was inspiring, but it ended in heartbreak with a 2-0 defeat to Liverpool. Similarly, in 2021, they reached the Carabao Cup final, only to succumb to Manchester City. These near-misses have left fans questioning the club’s inability to get over the line.

Many point to Levy’s reluctance to invest in the squad when it matters most. This criticism was especially prominent during Pochettino’s tenure, where a promising Spurs side that consistently finished in the Premier League’s top four seemed just a few marquee signings away from glory.

A tale of missed opportunities

Levy’s era at Tottenham is a paradox; while he has elevated the club commercially, his footballing decisions have arguably held them back. Despite his flaws, Levy has proven himself a capable businessman, constructing a state-of-the-art stadium that generates significant revenue. However, it is his reluctance to adequately invest in the squad during key moments that rankles with supporters.

Pochettino’s reign is a prime example. Under his guidance, Spurs played some of their finest football in decades, regularly finishing in the top four. Yet, during this golden era, the club failed to invest heavily to strengthen the squad. Comparisons have been drawn to Liverpool, who bolstered their team after a fourth-placed finish and were rewarded with Champions League and Premier League titles.

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Another decision that remains a point of contention is Levy’s choice to sack Mourinho just days before the Carabao Cup final in 2021.

With Ryan Mason—a managerial novice—thrust into the spotlight against Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, the outcome felt inevitable. Fans still struggle to comprehend the timing of this dismissal and what it achieved beyond further disruption.

That said, Levy has sought to instil a winning mentality through his managerial appointments. Names like Mourinho, Conte, and now Ange Postecoglou highlight his intention to bring experienced winners to the club. Postecoglou has reinvigorated Spurs with an attractive, attacking style, but his success will largely depend on Levy’s willingness to provide the necessary backing in upcoming transfer windows.

Is Levy to be blamed for Spurs’ trophy drought?

It is undeniable that Levy has played a significant role in Tottenham’s long wait for silverware. Time and again, Spurs’ managers have appeared to do their best with the resources made available to them, yet the lack of trophies persists. When managers like Mourinho and Conte—serial winners with extensive track records of success—fail to deliver at Spurs, the focus inevitably shifts to the hierarchy.

Both Mourinho and Conte arrived at Spurs with expectations of instilling a winning mentality, yet neither could overcome the structural challenges posed by the club’s limited squad depth and lack of timely reinforcements.

These failures cannot be solely attributed to the managers, as their histories at other clubs demonstrate their ability to deliver when adequately supported.

That said, Levy has an opportunity to redeem himself. Ange Postecoglou’s start at Tottenham has rekindled hope among fans, with the team playing some of its best football since Pochettino’s tenure.

The question now is whether Levy will provide the consistent backing needed to help Postecoglou build a team capable of challenging for silverware. The early signs do look promising as Ange has spent €376,950,000 on transfers since joining the club last summer.

However, the January transfer window and subsequent transfer periods will be critical. By ensuring that Postecoglou has the resources to strengthen the squad, Levy could finally break the cycle of near-misses and missed opportunities.

His legacy at Tottenham may hinge on whether he learns from past mistakes and embraces a more ambitious approach to investment in the team.

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly only willing to spend a modest fee on a new recruit in January as they are worried about one potential knock-on effect of a big-money signing.

Tottenham need reinforcements at the back

Micky van de Ven‘s injury record and Cristian Romero’s poor form this season have perhaps necessitated the search for another centre-back for Ange Postecoglou.

Additionally, Radu Dragusin has been inconsistent in the opportunities that have come his way so far, with the 22-year-old not looking completely comfortable in Ange Postecoglou’s system.

However, it has now emerged that the Lilywhites are wary of spending big on another centre-back.

Tottenham looking towards the future

GiveMeSport now report that while Spurs are willing to spend to strengthen the backline in January, they are also considering the knock-on effect on some of their young players.

The likes of Ashley Phillips, Alfie Dorrington and Luka Vuskovic are all seen as potential first-team options, perhaps even as early as next season.

As a result, Tottenham are wary that signing another top centre-back might close the door for some of these young players to get a taste of first-team football.

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The outlet adds that the North London club would prefer to not spend more than £25m on a new defensive recruit and are now on the lookout for the right option.

Tottenham fans will prefer a proven signing

It is fair to say that some Spurs fans are not on board with the club’s strategy of building for the future rather than signing players who can improve the side right now.

Given that the likes of Archie Gray, Lucas Bergvall and Wilson Odobert have not made much impact since arriving at N17, many supporters will want to see Postecoglou backed with players who are proven at the top level.