Football FanCast

Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy has faced mounting criticism in the aftermath of their botched deal for Eberechi Eze, and talks for Man City winger Savinho haven't exactly been plain sailing either.

Eze ultimately chose a move to boyhood club Arsenal ahead of Spurs, despite agreeing personal terms with the latter, when Mikel Arteta's side swooped in at the last second and offered him a chance of returning to N5.

Tottenham also had a verbal agreement with Palace over the finances of a deal for Eze, but as the old saying goes - a signing is never done until all the contracts are signed.

Arsenal's dramatic late hijack leaves Thomas Frank still without a star number 10 to replace the injured James Maddison, nor does the Dane have an heir to club legend Son Heung-min out wide.

Just under two weeks ago, Tottenham entered talks for both Eze and Savinho in separate deals, prompting huge excitement among the fanbase, but there is the possibility that Frank ends up with neither.

Eze is completely off the table, but in Savinho's case, the north Londoners are not giving up, despite City blocking the deal as things stand.

Reports from Brazil earlier this week claimed that Tottenham are vowing to go all out for Savinho behind-the-scenes after losing out on Eze, and his agents are in London right now attempting to facilitate a deal (Globo Esporte).

Spurs could even submit a club-record £69 million bid for the Brazil international, but Pep Guardiola has previously insisted that he wants him at Eastlands for "many years" amid Levy's interest.

"I don’t know. If it is Tottenham in that case or another club, if any club wants a player, they should call the club like we do," Guardiola said in a press conference before City's 4-0 win over Wolves.

“I am only concerned right now that Savinho will be with us for the rest of the season and hopefully many years because at 21, with the potential he has, he is an extraordinary player.

“Otherwise, he would not have played more than 3,000 minutes last season. At the end, the desire of the players is above everything. But then they have to find an agreement with the club. If they don’t take an agreement, the player will be here."

Savinho is out injured right now, funnily enough, but an alternative to the 21-year-old could be Real Madrid star Rodrygo - if Spurs can't agree a deal for the City man.

Tottenham make approach for Rodrygo amid chance of Real Madrid loan deal

Frank and Guardiola are poised to come head-to-head this weekend, and it gives club officials a chance to hold further talks over Savinho, as widely reported elsewhere.

However, City appear to be making this very difficult, and Rodrygo's pool of suitors is running low.

The 24-year-old Brazil star, who bagged 14 goals and 11 assists in all competitions last season, has struggled for starts under new manager Xabi Alonso, and Defensa Central have claimed that Real could sanction a loan-to-buy deal as Tottenham take note.

Now, Mundo Deportivo, relayed by Sport Witness, have an update on the story - reporting that Tottenham are the only side to have approached Real over signing Rodrygo - and his potential exit remains a 'live' possibility heading into the final stretch of this summer.

Jude Bellingham called the ex-Santos star their most "underrated" and "gifted" player this year, and if a deal is there to be had, it is certainly one worth considering.

Rodrygo would be the statement signing that Tottenham are crying out for after a very testing window, and one that could seriously lift spirits around N17.

Tottenham Hotspur’s need for a number ten this summer has become more apparent week after week, with Thomas Frank having to deal with numerous setbacks since taking the reins.

The Dane has seen issues arise in the number ten position over recent weeks, with injuries massively disrupting the plans he would’ve had in place for the ongoing Premier League campaign.

James Maddison would undoubtedly have been the starting player in such a position, but the new manager will be without the Englishman for the vast majority of 2025/26.

He suffered an ACL injury in the pre-season clash with Newcastle United in South Korea, subsequently undergoing surgery, which will rule him out of action for at least six months.

Dejan Kulusevski is another option to fill the void, but like Maddison, he’s also set for a spell on the sidelines - further highlighting the failures of the hierarchy in the transfer market this window.

Spurs’ failure to land a number ten this summer

Morgan Gibbs-White was the first target identified by the Spurs board, even submitting a £60m bid to land the Nottingham Forest star earlier in the window.

A deal rapidly advanced over a short space of time, even seeing the player agree to travel for a medical - but Reds owner Evangelos Marinakis pulled the plug and intercepted a move, leading to the player signing a new deal at the City Ground.

After missing out on the 25-year-old’s signature, the hierarchy turned their attention to Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze, entering constant deliberations for his signature.

At one stage, it appeared as though a move would go through, with the player agreeing to join the Lilywhites - but North London rivals Arsenal have swooped in and seemingly got the deal done for the 27-year-old’s signature.

Missing out on both players has undoubtedly fuelled the fanbase’s displeasure towards Daniel Levy, with the owner needing to make a new number ten a priority before the summer deadline.

Spurs’ hunt to land an Eze alternative this summer

After losing out on Eze, Spurs have turned their attention to West Ham United star Lucas Paqueta over recent days, potentially landing a bargain deal for the 27-year-old this window.

It’s been reported that he could be available for as little as £40m this summer, a 50% cut on his asking price from last summer, with the Hammers previously wanting £80m for his signature.

However, he’s not the only attacking midfielder currently on their radar, with Como star Nico Paz another talent they are considering, according to one Spanish outlet.

They claim that Frank’s side are preparing an opening offer to sign the 20-year-old, after he enjoyed a breakthrough year in Serie A throughout 2024/25 - notching 14 combined goals and assists in his 35 outings.

It’s also been reported that his current employers don’t want to sell the Argentine this summer, just one year after he joined from Real Madrid - but may entertain offers around the £60m mark.

Why Spurs’ £60m target is a bigger talent than Eze

Eze is a player who has demonstrated his quality in England’s top-flight on a consistent basis over the last few years, often being a huge threat to countless backlines in the division.

His tally of 16 goal contributions in just 34 outings last campaign highlights the threat he carries, but ultimately, it will be a record the Spurs backline will try and nullify in 2025/26.

Missing out on his signature was a bitter blow in isolation, but the fact that he’s joining the club’s closest rivals has only added to the pain currently being endured by the Lilywhites faithful.

There’s no doubt any deal for the 27-year-old would’ve been a hefty investment, but arguably a risk-free one given the numbers he’s previously produced in the Premier League.

However, Levy and Frank must now work closely on other targets, potentially taking a gamble on Paz to provide the depth and quality the side have been hunting for in the number ten role.

On the face of it, his tally of goals and assists in Italy last season were hugely impressive, but it needs to be remembered that it was his first full season as a regular starter in Europe’s top-five leagues.

The flipside would see the Lilywhites land an extremely talented youngster, who has bags of time to build on his excellent start to his career, given his tender age.

He’s already managed to outperform Eze in numerous key areas throughout 2024/25, with multiple of his underlying figures better than those of the soon-to-be Arsenal man.

Paz, who possesses “immense potential” according to Jacek Kulig, posted a better shot on target rate, arguably being more of a threat than the Englishman when bearing down on goal.

However, his main responsibility as a number ten is undoubtedly creating chances for those around him - something which the Argentine has done in abundance in recent months.

He completed more of the passes he attempted, whilst more of his efforts were into the final third, handing the likes of Richarlison and Brennan Johnson to build on their goal tallies this campaign.

The youngster’s dominance over Eze is further highlighted in his higher take-on success rate - able to drive into dangerous areas before providing the final touches - as seen by his aforementioned figures.

£60m may appear to be a mammoth sum for a player who is largely inexperienced and may prove to be a gamble, but a new signing in that area is a must during the closing stages of the window.

If he can build on his impressive start to his career in North London, the move could potentially be a bargain - massively softening the blow of missing out on Eze’s signature.

At the very last moment, just when all hope was nearly lost, Arsenal pulled off one of the greatest transfer hijacks in recent memory by usurping Tottenham to a deal for Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze.

Earlier this week, Spurs appeared to have Eze's signing all done and dusted when they reached a verbal club-to-club agreement for the 27-year-old, after also agreeing personal terms with the player himself.

However, Kai Havertz's injury prompted Andrea Berta to make a last-minute dash for Eze after laying plenty of groundwork earlier this summer and holding extensive talks with the England international's representatives.

Arsenal matched Tottenham's bid, leaving Eze with the final decision, and he ultimately chose a return to his boyhood club - 14 years after being released by them as a young academy prospect.

“As we moved into this week, Spurs reached an agreement in principle. They had a fee very similar to that of what Arsenal are paying of £60million plus add-ons," said journalist Ben Jacobs on talkSPORT.

“Kai Havertz picked up a knee injury and Arsenal said ‘we’ve done all of the leg work so let’s move’.

“Eze was therefore faced with a straight choice of Arsenal or Spurs and in that scenario with both having a club-to-club agreement, Eze was always going to pick Arsenal."

The transfer, now estimated to cost Mikel Arteta's side around £67.5 million, is great news for QPR as well - as the Hoops inserted a 15 per cent sell-on clause on any profit for Eze when they sold him to Palace in 2020.

Eze started undergoing his Arsenal medical on Friday morning, so Arteta will soon have the Londoner at his disposal in what is a seismic boost for their Premier League title challenge.

Now, the question is, how will Arteta utilise the attacking star who bagged 14 goals and 11 assists in all competitions for Palace last season?

Arsenal's plan for Eberechi Eze after hijacking Tottenham

According to journalist Graeme Bailey, Arsenal plan to use Eze as a number 10, which is "fascinating" because it's a clear indication that Arteta was planning a similar role for Havertz, before the German's forced absence.

Tottenham Hotspur are still in the market for new attacking options, and chairman Daniel Levy is under mounting pressure to deliver.

For the second time in this window alone, Spurs suffered major public humiliation this week by missing out on another star number 10, despite being on the verge of completing a deal.

Earlier in the summer, Morgan Gibbs-White was practically seen as a new Tottenham player when news broke of his pending July medical, only for Nottingham Forest to block the £60 million transfer in never-before-seen fashion.

Evangelos Marinakis not only threatened legal action, with Spurs alleged to have obtained information about Gibbs-White's 'confidential' release clause illegally, but also managed to stall the deal long enough to convince the 25-year-old to sign a new contract instead.

In all fairness, this kind of thing in football almost never happens, and scarcely anyone could've predicted it.

However, in Eze's case, the matter was much more simple - Tottenham were hijacked by their arch north London rivals.

Despite agreeing both personal terms and the finances of a deal with Palace, talks were held long enough for Arsenal to swoop in at the last second and convince their boyhood supporter to join Mikel Arteta's side instead - with Kai Havertz's injury pushing them into immediate action.

"Understand Spurs agreed to Palace's terms today and had agreed terms with Eze. The player was ready to come to Tottenham. Palace hadn't finalised the deal as they wanted him available for tomorrow night's European game," said Alasdair Gold on X.

"Then Arsenal came in late this afternoon - also agreeing to Palace's terms - and the player chose Arsenal due to his connection to them."

It is a hammer blow for manager Thomas Frank, amid reports the Dane believes that Tottenham need two number 10s after James Maddison's ACL rupture.

Last month, Spurs were planning to head into 2025/2026 with a fully fit Maddison and Gibbs-White, but Frank has neither at his disposal.

Eze is now also off the table, meaning Levy must make a serious late transfer statement if he is indeed serious about Tottenham eventually challenging for the Champions League and Premier League title.

Tottenham get green-light to hijack Chelsea deal for Alejandro Garnacho

While his natural position isn't in the number 10 role, Man United forward Alejandro Garnacho can play there when required.

Spurs are also after a wide player to replace club legend Son Heung-min, and the Argentine would tick both boxes as a versatile attacking gem who bagged a brilliant 11 goals and 10 assists in all competitions last term.

Garnacho's public fallout with Ruben Amorim has landed him on the for-sale list, with Chelsea reliably believed to be in advancing talks for the 21-year-old after also agreeing personal terms.

According to GiveMeSport, the west Londoners are haggling over price, and to avoid being forced to sanction a cut-price sale with no other suitors bidding, United have given the "green light" for Tottenham to move for Garnacho.

The Red Devils want Spurs to come in for him so they can drive Garnacho's price up and spark a bidding war, and Frank's side have already had some contact through intermediaries to gauge the conditions of a deal this window.

Tottenham Hotspur fans haven’t been the happiest with Daniel Levy in recent years, amid constant frustration with his lack of spending within the transfer market.

Whilst the owner has spent over £700m on new additions since the opening of the new stadium in 2020, many of which have failed to cut the grade needed in the Premier League.

The investment is one thing, but key players have also been offloaded during such a time period, including record goalscorer Harry Kane - who departed in a £82m deal to join Bayern Munich in 2023.

After the Lilywhites only ended the previous campaign in 17th place, more signings are desperately needed in the next couple of weeks, before the transfer window slams shut on September 1st.

Numerous players remain in their sights at present, with many of whom improving the options currently at Thomas Frank's disposal as he attempts to build on their Europa League triumph.

Spurs preparing move for Premier League star

Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze has been the biggest name mentioned with a move to join Spurs this summer, with the player himself keen on a deal to join the Lilywhites.

The two clubs have been in constant discussions over a move for the 27-year-old, who could cost a fee in the region of £60m, with Arsenal also interested in his signature.

However, he’s not the only Eagles talent currently in their sights, with centre-back Marc Guehi also a player the hierarchy are making a move for, according to TEAMtalk.

Their report claims that Frank’s side have made an offer to the player personally, which has been described as ‘very, very good’, with Liverpool also firmly in the race for his signature.

It also states that Guehi, who has one year left on his deal at Selhurst Park, could be available for a fee in the region of £45m - which may prove to be too expensive for any interested party.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be a Kudus-esque signing

Mohammed Kudus remains Spurs’ biggest addition throughout this summer, costing a staggering £55m from rivals West Ham United back in the early weeks of July.

The Ghanaian was brought into the club to provide needed quality to the attacking department, something which he’s already done as seen by his two competitive outings for the Lilywhites.

The 24-year-old started in a number nine role against PSG for the UEFA Super Cup final, before shifting to a more familiar right-sided role against newly-promoted Burnley.

He managed to register two assists for Richarlison, including his superb acrobatic effort in the second half, ending his first league outing for Frank’s side emerged as 3-0 victors over Scott Parker’s men.

It’s early days for the former Ajax star, but he’s already demonstrated his quality in North London, with a move for Guehi potentially being a similar deal this summer.

Whilst the two operate in different positions, the comparison is evident between the pair, in both joining the Lilywhites from sides, also in the Premier League.

Both have proven their quality in England’s top-flight, as seen by Kudus’ league debut, but Guehi’s underlying stats are just as impressive - enabling him to make a huge impact on the side throughout 2025/26 and beyond.

The Englishman, who’s been labelled “incredible” by creator HLTCO, completed 84% of the passes he attempted, 3.9 of which per 90 were progressive - able to provide Kudus with added chances in the final third, despite his defensive role.

Out of possession, the Palace star was just as impressive, winning 1.8 tackles per 90, at a success rate of 66%, able to add further quality to the Lilywhites’ already potent backline.

His talent without the ball is further reflected in his tally of 1.6 blocks made and 4.8 clearances made per 90 last season, able to help Frank in his quest to improve the defensive record that saw the side concede 65 times in their 38 outings in 2024/25.

Given the interest from the defending champions, it’s unclear whether Guehi will want to move to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium before the September 1st deadline.

However, any deal would be a phenomenal piece of business, allowing the centre-back to follow in Kudus’ footsteps and aid the club’s chances of building on their recent European triumph.

Tottenham have held fresh talks to sign Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze this week, which are believed to be heading in a very positive direction, and the player himself is extremely eager to swap London clubs.

The 27-year-old has already agreed personal terms to join Spurs, and according to Fabrizio Romano, he directly informed the Eagles of his wish to play in Lilywhite by transfer deadline day on September 1.

After Spurs made an offer of £60m including add-ons, it is believed that Tottenham started creeping towards a full agreement for Eze. There were still details to hash out, like payment structure, and Palace are apparently holding off on giving their full green-light as they look to sign a replacement for the England international first (Miguel Delaney).

However, Eze's move to Spurs is currently far more likely than not to happen.

“High percentage because today there was a meeting between Daniel Levy and the president of Crystal Palace, Steve Parish, negotiating for the operation. I’ll give you 85 percent," said Fabrizio Romano to DAZN on Monday.

“Eze wants to play Champions League with Tottenham, and the player wants to reach an agreement with Tottenham.

“He won two titles with the South London club, and he now wants to leave, he’s also told the coach Oliver Glasner.

“It is being negotiated because today Tottenham offered £55 million plus £5 million in add-ons, so a deal that can be closed soon with a lot of confidence of signing.”

Now, the former QPR star is seriously on the verge of a move to N17.

Ben Jacobs, among other reliable media sources, has revealed that an agreement in principle has been reached between Tottenham and Palace for Eze, but the Eagles still need to find a replacement before allowing the player to leave.

Before Tottenham agreed the finances of this deal, Sky Sports reporter Sacha Tavolieri revealed just how keen Eze is on a transfer to Tottenham.

Eberechi Eze's threat to Crystal Palace as he looks to force Tottenham move

According to Tavolieri, the player has never been closer to joining.

The attacking midfielder and James Maddison's potential replacement is apparently so desperate to make the move that he's been pressuring Selhurst Park chiefs to approve it, going as far as to make a stern threat over the weekend.

As per the Sky reporter, Eze threatened not to play for Palace in their 0-0 draw against Chelsea, but eventually rescinded this when Steve Parish personally gave the player assurances that his transfer wouldn't be delayed.

Eze also held a discussion with Oliver Glasner on Sunday morning to confirm his place in the starting line-up, but the situation is clear; Eze is clamoring for a switch to Spurs.

Once/if Palace and Tottenham agree a full deal and the paperwork is signed, Eze has approved a five-year contract in north London, and there is reason for supporters to get excited by this potential arrival.

The forward bagged a brilliant 14 goals and 11 assists in all competitions for Palace last season, including their FA Cup final-winning goal against Man City, with Eze averaging more shots, key passes and successful take-ons per 90 than all of his teammates in the top flight.

Tottenham have a few transfer items on their agenda, namely Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze, with Thomas Frank looking to replace the injured James Maddison by signing a quality, proven Premier League star.

This time last week, Spurs re-opened negotiations over a deal for Eze after north London rivals Arsenal seemingly backed off in the race for his signature - despite Mikel Arteta's side holding extensive talks with the player's representatives.

Arsenal's hesitation stems from wanting to give highly-rated youngster Ethan Nwaneri more game time next season (talkSPORT), with club captain Martin Odegaard also currently their first choice number 10 - meaning it isn't exactly an area in need of reinforcing.

This has given Spurs a chance to swoop in and sign Eze for themselves, with the 27-year-old believed to have already agreed personal terms as Daniel Levy and Palace chairman Steve Parish attempt to hash out a potential £60 million deal.

Eze featured in Palace's opening Premier League game of the season on Sunday - a 0-0 draw against Chelsea - and Oliver Glasner attempted to quash rumours of an imminent exit for the England international.

“As much as I know, Eze has a contract with Crystal Palace, he’s a Crystal Palace player and he showed it today,” Glasner said.

“As long as he is a Palace player and performs like this he will play for us. Nobody has told me something else.

“He was picked because he’s a Crystal Palace player and he’s a very good player. He trained the whole week so there was no reason not to pick him.

“The players are giving their answer (to press speculation) week by week. Last week winning against Liverpool on penalties (in the Community Shield) and here against the club world champions."

However, as much as Glasner may not like it, the likelihood is that Eze will be a Tottenham player by the transfer deadline on September 1.

Reports suggest that Tottenham are on the verge of a deal for Eze and Palace are actively pursuing replacements, with Leicester City star Bilal El Khannouss approached by the south Londoners (Sacha Tavolieri).

Tottenham reach "verbal agreement" to sign Eberechi Eze

According to reliable Spurs insider, Paul O'Keefe, this afternoon, a breakthrough has now been made.

Talks have apparently reached the final stage, with Tottenham reaching a verbal agreement to sign Eze.

O'Keefe expands on this, detailing in a thread via X that Spurs have agreed on the deal numbers with Palace, and all that is left is for Glasner's side to give the "final green light" to Eze's move.

He adds that nothing is done until contracts are signed, but Frank has now taken a pretty monumental step towards welcoming the attacking midfielder to N17.

In the meantime, before Palace do give their full approval to the transfer, it is likely they'll want to secure their replacement first - so keep an eye on El Khannouss and his potential switch to Selhurst Park.

Whilst Thomas Frank managed to win his first Premier League game as Tottenham Hotspur manager, the club still have work to do before the end of the summer transfer window.

He’s already been backed by the board, landing a £55m deal for Mohammed Kudus, but ultimately, further big-money reinforcements are needed to avoid a repeat of the 2024/25 campaign.

The Lilywhites ended the previous year in 17th place, still managing to win the Europa League, with the Dane the man to lead them into the Champions League this season.

However, if the 51-year-old is to be successful in either of the competitions in the near future, he will need added quality in depth within key areas of the pitch.

Big money will likely need to be spent if added success is to be achieved, but one of the club’s key dealings may have already taken place over the last couple of days.

Cristian Romero’s new contract at Tottenham Hotspur

Back in the summer of 2021, Spurs completed the loan signing of Cristian Romero from Italian outfit Atalanta, making the centre-back’s move permanent 12 months later - costing around £42.5m in the process.

Whilst his disciplinary record has often been brought into question, he’s been a key component of the Lilywhites' backline, making 126 appearances over the last four years.

The 27-year-old was named the club’s captain last week, highlighting the trust new boss Frank has placed in him - understandably so given his Man of the Match showing in the European final against Manchester United.

The good news has continued for the Argentine, penning a new four-year deal until the summer of 2029, with such a move arguably one of the best pieces of business conducted by the club this window, amid interest from Spanish giants Atlético Madrid.

However, despite Romero’s new contract, the hierarchy are looking to add further quality into the club’s backline, handing Frank the added depth he needs to help the side challenge at the top of England’s top-flight.

Spurs targeting move for a new Romero partner

Over recent days, Spurs have entered talks with Manchester City over a potential deal for 20-year-old right-back Rico Lewis - potentially providing competition for Pedro Porro.

The Englishman has also been subject to interest from Nottingham Forest, but it’s been confirmed that the youngster wants to remain at the Etihad beyond the summer window.

However, he’s not the only defender in their sights, with the club also strongly considering a move to land Brentford star Nathan Collins, according to the Daily Mail.

Their report claims that the Lilywhites have been closely monitoring the Irish international, who featured in every single minute of the previous Premier League campaign.

It also states that Manchester United and Liverpool are also plotting a move for the 24-year-old, but Spurs could hold the key to any move, given the centre-back’s previous time playing under Frank at the GTEC.

Why Spurs’ latest target could be perfect for Romero

Whilst Frank has only overseen two competitive games as Spurs boss, he’s already showcased his versatility in the role, operating with various different systems.

In the UEFA Super Cup final against PSG, the Dane utilised a back-five, whilst switching back to a more familiar back four in the win against Burnley on Saturday.

However, if the club are to be a success, adapting the side based upon the opposition is vital, something which was hugely lacking during Ange Postecoglou’s tenure.

A move for Collins could offer the new boss the depth he craves, adding another option to the heart of the defence, which could allow for a centre-back trio of Micky van de Ven, Romero and the Irishman.

It’s unclear how much a deal for the Bees star would set the hierarchy back before the September 1st deadline, but it would be a transfer that would add the needed quality to the defensive unit.

When comparing his stats to those of Romero from 2024/25, the 24-year-old managed to outperform the Argentine in key areas, even ranking highly among other defenders in the division.

Collins, who’s been labelled “one of the best defenders in the Premier League” by journalist Mario Marra, ranked in the 97th percentile for blocks made (2.1) whilst ranking in the 89th percentile for aerials won (3.1), according to FBref.

Such figures are both higher than those produced by Romero, which would subsequently hand Frank the quality at the back to improve the record of 65 league goals conceded last season.

The Irishman also achieved a better aerial success rate last season, whilst making nearly two times more clearances per 90 - further highlighting the quality he possesses without the ball.

However, despite Collins’ ability without the ball, he’s also showcased his talent in possession, something which has been vital in Frank’s system - as seen by the Bees’ average possession of 48% in the Premier League during 2024/25.

He managed to achieve more progressive passes and carries per 90 last season, able to seamlessly fit into the manager’s plans given his previous stint under his guidance.

Whilst it’s unclear how much the Bees will be demanding to part ways with their captain, it’s a deal that could transform the Lilywhites’ fortunes within the defensive third.

If he can replicate such numbers from 2024/25, he could prove to be the perfect partner for Romero, which could provide added success for the club in the not-too-distant future.

Tottenham got off to a perfect start in the Premier League last weekend with a thumping 3-0 win over newcomers Burnley in north London, with Thomas Frank sealing his first competitive win as Spurs boss early doors.

Richarlison's brace (including a very early goal of the season contender) and a goal from Brennan Johnson rounded off what was an excellent opening day win for the Lillywhites - but there will be many tougher days ahead.

Frank's side are back in the Champions League and face a hectic fixture calendar across 2025/2026, with a rejuvenated Man City side, who've seriously reinforced their squad throughout the summer window, awaiting them next.

To give Frank the best possible chance of a successful first full campaign in charge, chairman Daniel Levy, technical director Johan Lange and CEO Vinai Vinkatesham have been working tirelessly on recruitment behind-the-scenes.

"We saw a team that was very, very, very competitive (vs PSG) and on any other day, we would have beaten the best team in Europe," Frank said in a press conference before Tottenham's 3-0 win over Burnley.

"Of course, we want as strong and competitive squad as possible. I know that Daniel, Johan and Vinai are working night and day, and they have, by the way, been working night and day the last whatever, six, seven, eight weeks, and they definitely would like to do deals early. Sometimes I think we need to understand it's not that easy, but they're working.”

So far, Tottenham have signed Mohammed Kudus from West Ham for £55 million, and the Ghanaian got off to a fantastic start in their Burnley victory with an impressive display on the right - setting up Richarlison's stunning overhead kick with a deft cross after a neat bit of skill to beat his man.

Kota Takai also joined Spurs for what was a J-League record £5 million fee for a Japanese player, with Levy also triggering Kevin Danso's obligation to buy and signing Mathys Tel permanently in a cut-price £30m deal from Bayern Munich.

Now, the north Londoners are actively trying to seal a deal for Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze as their next major incoming.

Levy and Eagles chairman Steve Parish held direct talks over the £100,000-per-week forward on Monday, with Spurs prepared to pay up to £60 million (including add-ons) for his signature.

Tottenham want both Eze and Man City winger Savinho in separate deals to bolster Frank's attack, and it looks increasingly the former will be coming through the door first.

Eberechi Eze agrees personal terms to join Tottenham

According to GiveMeSport, the former QPR star is ever closer to N17 and could even play against Man City on Saturday - considering he may be a "member of the Spurs squad by the end of the week".

Eze has already agreed personal terms with Tottenham, and an agreement in principle with Palace is described as on the verge of being done too.

It's added that Levy is prepared to 'spend big' in the final days of this transfer window, starting with Eze, and Spurs are boosted by the fact Palace are currently trying to find the 27-year-old's replacement.

As per GMS, they've made an approach to sign Leicester City playmaker Bilal El Khannouss, whose contract includes a £22.5m release clause, so a move for the Moroccan could well progress quickly.

Tottenham Hotspur are once again navigating the transfer market with a sense of urgency after a summer of change.

The north London club, fresh off their first European trophy in over 40 years, are preparing for a Champions League campaign that promises both excitement and challenge.

However, their squad has been left short of creative midfield options following a series of departures and injuries.

The departure of Son Heung Min to LAFC marked the end of an era for Spurs, leaving a gap in attacking output that the club have been eager to fill.

Compounding this issue, James Maddison, who was expected to provide the creative spark in midfield, suffered a season-ending ACL injury in a pre-season match against Newcastle in South Korea.

Manager Thomas Frank now faces the dual challenge of maintaining Spurs’ attacking intensity while integrating new signings capable of thriving in the Premier League and on the European stage.

Spurs targeting top young talent

With Tottenham having invested heavily over the summer, including the £60m signing of Mohamed Kudus from West Ham and ongoing negotiations for Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze, the club are clearly intent on ensuring their squad can compete on multiple fronts.

The urgency is amplified by Maddison’s absence, which has created a pressing need for a technically gifted midfielder who can operate in various attacking positions and inject creativity into the team’s play.

Spurs are reportedly willing to enter the market again before the transfer window closes, aiming to secure a player capable of bridging the gap left by Maddison.

In recent days, reports from TEAMtalk have linked Tottenham with a move for highly-rated young midfielder Harvey Elliott.

Described by former Liverpool striker Neil Mellor as a “special talent,” Spurs are ready to meet Liverpool’s valuation of around £40m for the 22-year-old, who has expressed enthusiasm about a move to north London following discussions with Thomas Frank.

The player’s profile has attracted interest from several clubs, with Crystal Palace reportedly viewing him as a potential replacement for Eze - should the Palace star depart for Spurs.

German side RB Leipzig have also been monitoring the situation after Liverpool’s depth in midfield has limited the youngster’s regular game time.

How Harvey Elliott compares to James Maddison

Statistics from the previous season illustrate why Tottenham are pursuing this deal.

The player featured 18 times in the Premier League, scoring once and contributing two assists.

He also made a significant impact in the Champions League, scoring three goals in five appearances, including a decisive winner in a 1-0 victory over PSG at the Parc des Princes.

His performances on the international stage, particularly in England’s back-to-back U21 European Championship wins, further underscore his potential to develop into a central figure for both club and country.

Spurs’ willingness to meet Liverpool’s demands reflects their determination to secure a player who can immediately contribute at a high level, mitigating the absence of Maddison and ensuring their Champions League campaign begins with strength and creativity in midfield.

The pursuit of this young midfielder appears to be a strategic attempt to fill the creative void left by the former Leicester star.

While Maddison, now 28, brought experience, vision, and a proven goal contribution record to Spurs, the prospective signing offers a dynamic and progressive style of play, with a profile that aligns closely with modern Premier League demands.

Comparisons have been drawn between Elliott and other top young talents such as Fermin Lopez and Dani Olmo at Barcelona, as well as Chelsea’s Cole Palmer.

His ability to operate on either flank, though most comfortable centrally, provides Frank with flexibility in attacking patterns and formation setups.

Looking at the statistics, the differences between the two players are notable. The youngster averages 2.44 progressive carries per 90 compared to Maddison’s 2.24, and 10.7 progressive passes per 90 versus Maddison’s 8.16.

These metrics suggest a player capable of moving the ball forward effectively while actively involving teammates in attacking sequences.

A pass is considered progressive if the distance between the starting point and the next touch is at least 10 meters closer to the opponent's goal or any completed pass into the penalty area.

His pass completion rate of 82.2% slightly edges Maddison’s 81.3%, while his progressive passing distance per 90 (247.8) is comparable to Maddison’s (250.1), indicating a similar ability to transition play from midfield to attacking positions.

Shot creation is another area where the young midfielder shows promise. With 4.48 shot-creating actions per 90, he is a consistent source of opportunities for his team, slightly higher than Maddison’s output.

Although still developing, his defensive contributions are also respectable, with interceptions and clearances per 90 ranking in the upper tiers for young Premier League midfielders.

What makes the player particularly appealing for Tottenham is his versatility.

He can function effectively in multiple attacking roles, whether on the flank or through the centre, offering Thomas Frank the tactical flexibility to adjust formations and strategies mid-game.

Given Spurs’ current European ambitions, having a midfielder capable of performing in high-stakes matches against elite continental opponents is crucial.

Additionally, the young midfielder’s career trajectory shows a pattern of success at youth and senior levels, both domestically and internationally.

He has demonstrated an ability to perform in high-pressure scenarios, such as Champions League fixtures against top-tier teams and in international tournaments with England’s U21 squad.

This experience is invaluable for a Spurs squad balancing domestic and European competitions, particularly with a new manager implementing a system that requires both technical proficiency and tactical understanding.

While Maddison brought experience and a track record of goal involvement, the new signing offers a blend of creativity, energy, and adaptability that could complement Tottenham’s evolving squad.

With ongoing negotiations progressing, Spurs appear committed to finalising a deal that strengthens the squad, provides cover for injuries, and injects fresh attacking impetus to a side preparing to make a mark in both the Premier League and the Champions League this season.