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The Athletic’s Jack Pitt-Brooke has suggested that one manager who Tottenham are reportedly keen on bringing through the door might be the man to replicate the kind of success that Mauricio Pochettino had during his time at the North London club.

Since Pochettino’s sacking in 2019, Daniel Levy and Tottenham have made one misstep after another, with all of their managerial appointments proving unsuccessful.

In fact, it could be argued that Ange Postecoglou was brought through the door in an effort to recreate the kind of atmosphere and style of play Pochettino delivered, but the results under the Australian have been extremely inconsistent.

It has been widely reported that Postecoglou is now in very real danger of being sacked, and various outlets have claimed over recent weeks that Andoni Iraola is Tottenham’s top managerial target.

Andoni Iraola compared to Mauricio Pochettino

The appeal of Iraola is understandable, with the Spaniard transforming a Bournemouth side, who were one of the favourites to go down when he took over in 2023, to Champions League contenders.

He has done so playing an attacking, front-foot style of football, and Pitt-Brooke sees parallels between the 42-year-old and where Pochettino was in his career when he made the move from Southampton to Tottenham in 2014.

The journalist said on The Athletic FC Podcast: “There just seems to be a consensus in football that he is the next he is the next new, exciting young manager.

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“I think he is at that sweet spot where he’s only 42, so he’s young enough to be original, brave and really convinced about the strength of his ideas, but he’s also experienced enough that his ideas have been tested.

“He did really well in Spain at Rayo Vallecano and then he’s come over to Bournemouth and done well, so from a Tottenham point of view, if you’re thinking who reminds us most of Mauricio Pochettino in 2014, then Iraola is the obvious choice.”

Andoni Iraola is thought to be open to Tottenham move

It remains to be seen what the Cherries boss decides to do at the end of the season but reports about Tottenham’s chances of prising him away from the Vitality Stadium have been positive.

It was claimed a few weeks ago that sources close to Iraola believe he is open to taking the Spurs job. However, it emerged just a couple of days ago that Tottenham have not held any direct talks with Iraola’s camp so far.

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly very keen on signing a two-time Premier League winner, but Harry Kane has now explained why he is keen for the player not to make the move to his former club this summer.

This summer, one would expect Spurs to prioritise adding more firepower to their forward line, which has misfired on many occasions this season.

It has been reported over recent months that Tottenham are eyeing a move for Leroy Sane, whose contract with Bayern Munich runs out at the end of the season.

In fact, some outlets have even claimed that Spurs are in a strong position to win the race for Sane despite facing competition from the likes of Barcelona.

Despite struggling for regular starts earlier this season, Sane has been in fine form for Vincent Kompany’s side of late, chipping in with regular contributions in the final third.

The winger scored a brace in Bayern’s 3-1 win over St Pauli on Saturday, which took his tally to 11 goals across all competitions so far this season.

Speaking after the win, Harry Kane admitted that he loves playing with the former Manchester City man.

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The England captain told BILD about Sane: “It’s obvious that I harmonize very well with him. He has great qualities and terrifying skills! It was a top game from him and great to see how he converted his chances. He often gets into those positions and was ice-cold in front of goal today, which is what we need.”

When asked about the winger’s future, the former Tottenham Hotspur striker responded: “It’s not my decision, but the club’s. But I really like playing with Leroy and would love for him to stay. But that’s a discussion between him and the club.”

Bayern Munich are holding contract talks with Sane

It is by no means guaranteed that Sane will be available on a free transfer at the end of the season.

It was reported by Florian Plettenberg earlier this week that Bayern of appreciative of the winger’s impressive recent form and have begun talks with his representatives over a new deal.

Plettenberg added that the 29-year-old is willing to take a pay cut to stay at the Allianz Arena and is expected to make a final decision over the coming weeks.

Tottenham Hotspur have just been told that they have their work cut out to win the race for Chris Rigg as the Sunderland star is now receiving interest from a number of Premier League and overseas clubs.

Having seen Archie Gray hit the ground running since his switch from Leeds United last season, Spurs have allegedly set their sights on another exciting teenage midfielder starlet who is impressing in the Championship.

Various reports have claimed over recent weeks that Tottenham are plotting a move for Sunderland’s Chriss Rigg, whose consistent displays in the middle of the park have helped the Black Cats virtually seal a playoff spot.

However, just a couple of days ago, one source claimed that Spurs are outsiders in the race for Rigg right now, and a fresh update has now shed light on why that is the case.

Chris Rigg is a target for Tottenham and Bundesliga sides

Transfer expert Graeme Bailey has now explained that the queue of interested clubs in the Sunderland academy graduate has grown substantially.

He revealed that Rigg is on the radar of a few German clubs while there is also ‘extensive’ Premier League interest in the 17-year-old.

Bailey told Sunderland AFC News: “There is also Chris Rigg – the German clubs ‘love’ him too, could both players’ next adventures be in the Bundesliga?

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“I would not rule it out. However, we know there is extensive Premier League interest in both (Rigg and Jobe Bellingham). No matter, it’s going to be a busy and interesting summer for both.”

Spurs may have to battle London rivals for Rigg

While Bailey does not name any of Chris Rigg’s suitors in his latest update, we did hear just a couple of weeks ago that one of Tottenham’s London rivals are keen on the Sunderland man.

The report claimed that West Ham are ready to launch an offer for Rigg in the summer, with the Hammers thus potentially posing a big challenge to Tottenham in the transfer race.

However, the same update added that Spurs officials remain hopeful that the youngster can be persuaded that a switch to N17 would be the right one for his development.

New reports reveal that Cristian Romero has made a decision about his destination next summer and it is not one Tottenham fans will enjoy.

Few would have expected Tottenham Hotspur’s star defender Cristian Romero to be eyeing a move away from the club this summer.

However, given Spurs’ struggles this season, currently languishing in 14th place and miles away from competing with Europe’s elite, it is not entirely far-fetched.

Romero would not be the first big-name player to leave Tottenham, either. Just last summer, club record goalscorer Harry Kane departed, and now the Argentine centre-back could be next.

Cristian Romero’s summer decision revealed as Tottenham set hefty price tag

Atletico Madrid’s interest in Cristian Romero has been well documented, with the Spanish club reported to have already made contact with the player’s representatives.

Fresh reports from TBR Football now suggest Romero has made his stance clear. The defender is reportedly ready to leave Tottenham Hotspur this summer and has informed his camp that Spain is his preferred destination.

However, one major stumbling block remains—the price. Tottenham are believed to have placed a hefty £60 million valuation on the 26-year-old.

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Despite this, Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone has made it clear that he would like Romero to join the Spanish outfit and that he thinks the Argentine is one of the best defenders in the world.

Spurs’ contract offer rejected as Romero pushes for exit

TBR Football also reports that discussions over a new contract between Tottenham and Romero have been shelved.

Spurs were reportedly willing to make Cristian Romero their highest-paid player, yet he remains set on leaving, even if the club manage to secure UEFA Champions League football for next season.

Tottenham Hotspur vs Chelsea is a clash with plenty at stake, but former Liverpool defender Mark Lawrenson has made a rather unusual prediction ahead of the game.

Thursday night sees Tottenham Hotspur lock horns with a familiar foe as they take on Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

For Chelsea, a win here would significantly boost their chances of securing a spot in next season’s UEFA Champions League.

Meanwhile, Spurs have little more than pride to play for, with Ange Postecoglou’s men languishing in 14th place in the league.

However, revenge could be on the cards, as Tottenham will be eager to get one over their rivals after a chaotic 4-3 defeat in the reverse fixture.

Mark Lawrenson’s verdict on Tottenham Hotspur vs Chelsea

Both sides have struggled with consistency this season, and former Liverpool man Mark Lawrenson does not expect much from either.

Writing for Paddy Power, he said: “Both Chelsea and Tottenham are strange teams when you really look at them. Chelsea had a good start but are so unreliable now, and we know about the baggage that Tottenham carry around. This looks like a draw to me.”

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Score prediction: Chelsea 1-1 Tottenham.

It’s a cautious prediction from Lawrenson, who seems unconvinced by either team’s ability to get the job done on the night.

Why a 1-1 draw between Spurs and Chelsea seems unlikely

A 1-1 draw feels like an odd shout, considering how these two have clashed in recent times, as none of their last five meetings have ended in a 1-1 draw.

In fact, you have to go back to 2022 to find the last time Spurs and Chelsea shared the points, with it being a 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge. The last time this Tottenham vs Chelsea ended 1-1 came all the way back in the 2013/14 season.

Looking at their recent head-to-head record, Chelsea have won three of the last five, with Spurs claiming just one victory, while the other ended in the aforementioned draw.

If anything, history suggests this game will produce goals and a decisive result, meaning Lawrenson’s prediction could well be off the mark.

Of course, for Tottenham, they will have to be at their best to take anything from this one.

Ramon Vega has questioned the contrasting approaches between Tottenham and Arsenal in the transfer window after Mikel Arteta made a confident statement ahead of the summer.

Tottenham Hotspur fans have been crying out for the club to show more ambition in the market, but it looks like we might see the exact opposite this summer.

While releasing the club’s latest financial figures earlier his week, Daniel Levy warned that Spurs cannot continue spending beyond their means and stressed the need for sustainability.

Ramon Vega accused Levy of being a hypocrite following that statement, with the former Spurs centre-back questioning why financial restraint is not applied to the Tottenham chairman’s own paycheck.

Ramon Vega points out the difference between Spurs and Arsenal

Vega has now taken to social media to point to the difference in approaches between Tottenham and their North London rivals, Arsenal.

The former Swiss international reposted Mikel Arteta’s recent promise that Arsenal will have a “big” summer window, and add depth and quality to their squad.

Vega questioned why we never hear such an ambitious and positive message from any Spurs manager.

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Tottenham accused of putting themselves in transfer limbo this summer

Over recent days, some reports have claimed that Daniel Levy is prepared to greenlight a significant summer spend at Tottenham as the Lilywhites aim to make some big moves in the market.

However, it was pointed out by some pundits that Spurs cannot plan for the summer due to the uncertainty over Postecoglou’s future.

Ange Postecoglou has addressed speculation about Mauricio Pochettino’s potential return to Tottenham Hotspur, as pressure mounts on the Australian to deliver success in his second season.

Tottenham’s recent form has led to increased scrutiny on Ange Postecoglou’s position, with reports suggesting Spurs have already drawn up a shortlist of potential managerial replacements should they decide to make a change this summer.

Meanwhile, former Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino has openly admitted his desire to return to Tottenham, claiming he has “unfinished business” in north London.

The Argentine, who spent five years at Tottenham, guided them to a Champions League final before being sacked in 2019.

Speaking about his future Tottenham ambitions, Mauricio Pochettino said: “To be honest, the day that I left the club, I was always thinking one day to come back. It is not that I was thinking before the offer from the USA national team; I was thinking to come back.

“The day that I left, I was thinking I would love to one day come back to Tottenham because, like I have said in the past, I felt empty in the moment that I left.

“It was like an unfinished job, and that is why. It is a feeling, it is a dream. I do not know how you can take it or how I can explain it, but for sure, it is a club that is always going to be special for me.

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“And I would like one day to have the possibility again to try to arrive in a situation where we can finish in a different way.”

Ange Postecoglou wants Mauricio Pochettino back at Tottenham one day

Ange Postecoglou was asked by football.london about Mauricio Pochettino’s remarks regarding a potential return to Tottenham. The Australian kept his response measured but didn’t shy away from addressing the situation head-on.

“Mauricio, if he wants to come back one day, I hope it happens for him. We all have dreams and aspirations, if that’s what he wants. You’re suggesting that he’s trying to put pressure on me?” he said.

When pressed on whether the timing of the interview was disrespectful given the current situation at Spurs, Postecoglou dismissed any suggestion of offence.

“Well, I don’t feel disrespected. I think if you ask Mauricio that question directly, you’d get a pretty clear answer as to what his intent was. Again, nothing from me to sort of be consumed with. I’m more focused on trying to make sure we win tomorrow night,” he added.

What next for Spurs and Postecoglou?

Despite being in charge, Postecoglou knows the pressure is on him to deliver tangible success at Spurs, with the Europa League seen as a crucial opportunity to lift silverware.

There are strong suggestions that failure to win the trophy could lead to serious conversations about his future.

However, a Mauricio Pochettino return any time soon seems unlikely for Tottenham. The Argentine is currently managing the US national team and will be preparing for the 2026 World Cup, making an immediate reunion with Spurs improbable.

When comparing both managers’ spells in north London, Pochettino boasts a superior points-per-game record, which could influence Spurs’ thinking should they decide to make a managerial change.

If Tottenham do opt to bring him back, history suggests he is more than capable of leading the club again.

There has now been yet another twist in the Cristian Romero transfer saga, with a new report indicating that one of Spurs’ Premier League rivals are ready to seize the opportunity to sign the centre-back this summer.

It has been widely reported over recent days that Romero is ready to join Atletico Madrid in the summer after recently speaking with Deigo Simeone regarding the possibility.

The Tottenham vice-captain enters the final two years of his contract this June and Spurs’ efforts to tie Romero down to a new deal have been unsuccessful.

It has been rumoured that Tottenham are now ready to listen to offers for Romero this summer despite previously adopting a hardline stance on the player.

There has now been a twist in the tale as one of the Lilywhites’ Premier League rivals have been alerted by Romero’s availability.

Aston Villa plotting shock move for Cristian Romero

Football Transfers have now reported that Aston Villa are ready to push ahead with a move for the Tottenham man at the end of the season.

The Villans are aware that Romero is looking for a new challenge and Unai Emery wants to offer him a chance to join his project at Villa Park.

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The Midlands club are ready to offer the centre-back a five-year contract, which is the kind of long-term deal that he is thought to be looking for.

The publication adds that Spurs are willing to sell Cristian Romero for around £55m, but Villa are not the only club interested.

Two other European giants are also eyeing Cristian Romero

Football Transfers reveal that former Tottenham boss Antonio Conte is a big fan of the World Cup winner and is keen on reuniting with him at Napoli.

However, the outlet mentions that it is unclear if the Serie A club would be able to match Tottenham’s asking price for the former Juventus man.

Additionally, it is revealed that Bayern Munich, who recently signed both Harry Kane and Eric Dier from Spurs, are also monitoring Romero’s situation.

After a couple of months of constant rumours about a potential return to the Premier League, and more specifically, to Tottenham, Harry Kane has now set the record straight regarding his plans for the summer.

Since it first emerged at the start of February that Kane’s contract at Bayern has an exit clause of £54m, which can be activated this summer, the speculation over the striker’s future has gone into hyperdrive.

Reports over the recent weeks have claimed that Spurs have not ruled out the possibility of making a shock move to bring Kane back to N17.

It has also emerged over recent days that Man United are prepared to do everything they can to sign Kane, thus potentially paving the way for a big transfer battle between the Lilywhites and the Red Devils.

Harry Kane addresses possibility of Premier League return

Despite what is being reported by the English press, various sources have continued to state that Bayern are relaxed about the situation as they do not expect Kane to leave.

Now, the England captain has put an end to the rumours once and for all by making it clear that he is not thinking about leaving the Allianz Arena anytime soon, remarking that he is very happy at the Bavarian side.

When asked if he would consider returning to the Premier League one day, Kane told ESPN: “I’m not sure. I’ve said throughout my whole career, I’m not someone who likes to think too far ahead.

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“I’m extremely happy here. I think we have a fantastic team, and fantastic coaching staff and I just feel like whilst I feel like I’m in the best condition, I wanna play at the highest level possible, and this is as high as it gets.

“So I know a lot can change in football in a short space of time and things can happen, but ultimately my focus is here. I’m not thinking about any other league or any other team. And with football, I like to just go the flow and at the moment the flow is here at Bayern Munich.”

Harry Kane reveals main difference between Tottenham and Bayern Munich

Kane admitted that he is relishing the chance to regularly compete for the biggest trophies in the game, which he was not consistently able to do at Tottenham Hotspur.

The 32-year-old revealed his excitement for the final run-in this season, with Bayern looking to do a sensational double by winning the Bundesliga and the Champions League.

Kane added: “I think when you’re just playing in the biggest games every season, year after year, I think that puts you on that stage.

“I had moments at Spurs where we had that … we had some really great years where we was challenging for titles, and were in the final of the Champions League. So, I had those moments at Spurs, but not on a consistent basis. It wasn’t year after year.

“This is my second year in Bayern and we have the chance to reach our second semifinal in the Champions League, another title race. So yeah, all those factors that come into it. Bayern are seen as one of the biggest clubs in the world and it’s exciting to play for them.”

Tottenham Hotspur’s challenge at Stamford Bridge on Thursday has just got a little harder, with Enzo Maresca confirming that Chelsea have been boosted by the return of three key men ahead of the London derby.

While there is no doubt that the Europa League takes centre stage for Tottenham at this stage of the season, the Lilywhites are under pressure to achieve a respectable Premier League finish.

They are currently languishing in 14th place in the table and defeat against Chelsea would further pile the pressure on their head coach, with Ange Postecoglou already thought to be fighting for his job.

The latest news regarding the Blues’ injury situation has made life even more difficult for the Australian and his team ahead of their trip to Stamford Bridge.

Enzo Maresca confirms return of three injured Chelsea players

Ahead of the big clash on Thursday, Maresca has now confirmed that Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke and Noni Madueke are all expected to be fit for the derby.

When asked about Chelsea’s injury situation, the Italian coach responded (via Nizaar Konsella): “Cole Palmer is back, he is okay. Noni Madueke is better. Nico Jackson is better. They are all good.”

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That means that Tottenham will have to be at their best to get a result at Stamford Bridge. Spurs fans have already received an injury update on Dejan Kulusevski and Kevin Danso from Ange Postecoglou ahead of the derby clash.

Ironically, Tottenham have been linked with a move for Noni Madueke recently, with the winger having come through the Spurs academy.

Chris Sutton expects Tottenham and Chelsea to play out a five-goal thriller

Chelsea undoubtedly come into the game as favourites, given how poor Tottenham have been away from home this season.

However, Chris Sutton expects Tottenham and Chelsea to play out a high-scoring thriller and believes that the two sides will only be separated by one goal.

The former Celtic striker said about the London derby: “This is a great game to finish the week off. It ended up 4-3 to Chelsea earlier in the season, and there are likely to be a few more goals this time too.

“Chelsea have players like Cole Palmer, Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke back from injury to bolster their attack, but Spurs have got some key players like Micky van de Ven fit again too.

“Tottenham’s league campaign has been disappointing—it is winning the Europa League or bust for them—while Chelsea are still chasing the Champions League places.

“Spurs looked tired to me before the international break, so it will be interesting to see what they are like here. We know how exciting they can be on their day, it is just those days have been few and far between this season.

“Chelsea have been a bit flat as well, but maybe this is the game where both teams come to life and serve up a thriller—that is what I am hoping for anyway.”