The Boy Hotspur

Rodrigo Bentancur has put his reputation through the mill a fair bit recently. First, that was the slur that many fans felt was racist, and then we witnessed the bottle-hurling incident that managed to cause significant distress to a member of his staff.

In respect of the racial slur, which Son has subsequently accepted the apology, it might be helpful to acknowledge that the UK is a remarkably inclusive nation, offering diversity and equality for all. Many nations are not as forward-thinking, and remarks about certain races ‘all looking the same’ don’t cause such upset.

If you have travelled or worked with non-Brits, you will understand my point.

Judging the behaviour of anyone, let alone footballers, is a challenging business. It is naive to believe that all nations will conduct themselves in a fashion agreeable to our high standards.

In respect of the bottle thrown in anger after the Colombia game, it now emerges that context, again, is our friend.

The father of teammate and Paris Saint Germain midfielder Manuel Ugarte has revealed the full circumstances of what was happening on the night. He told the Uruguayan press just how unstable the situation had become amongst players’ family and friends in the stands.

“The beginning of the problem that took on a greater magnitude was when the fist bumps started on the stairs; the game was over and we realized that things were getting ugly.

“Colombians came down and to the right of where I was with my wife the first bumps started. We ran away, and our other problem jumped to the side.

“I remember seeing Rodrigo Bentancur’s wife with the very scared girl, Federico Valverde’s wife too; they are three-year-old boys. Bottles were flying, I tripped over a chair, and we went down behind the bench of substitutes.

“At one point my wife got very nervous, they started hitting, the police came and started sweeping everything away. My wife saw how they hit an elderly person, and she became unwell.”

Of course, there will be those who feel Bentancur is a bad egg and will be unwilling to listen to reason, however, all this is by way of explanation as opposed to excuse.

Hopefully, Rodrigo can get his head down and work on returning to be the exciting player we were all entertained by, and fans don’t have to make ‘judgements’ on what footballers say and do.

Ange Postecoglou started brightly in the Premier League, much to the shock of many, who were suspicious that the impressive form displayed in the Scottish Premier League and Japan might not be enough when it came to one of the most demanding divisions in the world. Tottenham got the results, but it was more about the intent of the play, and fans could see what the Australian was seeking to achieve.

After a while, key players picked up injuries and the squad weren’t just quite up to the task, or on the same wavelength as the gaffer. Performances became more forced, and the animated free-flowing football became far more of a scramble. Sure, Spurs managed to claim a European spot, but the sheer volume of games triggered by the Europa League would surely cause more problems.

One aspect that must be fixed, is the Tottenham frontline. Richarlison has not raised his game, despite the best wishes of fans, and Timo Werner has been outstanding value for the money, but he’s in no respect a top-flight calibre of striker.

Curiously enough, a failed broadcasting deal in French Football

French football is different to our own, clubs have to provide proof of solvency for a given season, but beyond that, there are no limits. And that solvency can be assured by unlimited owner inputs – hence PSG previously breached UEFA FFP but never had any trouble domestically.

TV money is about to fall off a cliff, as per this piece in the New York Times.

The LFP has been trying to sort its new TV deal — for the rights to show Ligue 1 matches from 2024 to 2029 — since October. The LFP has been trying to sort its new TV deal — for the rights to show Ligue 1 matches from 2024 to 2029 — since October, when an ambitious auction looking to bring in €1billion (£840m; $1.1bn at the current rates) a year was scrapped because there were no takers.

Given the extent of financial pressure that’s coming Ligue 1’s way, everything money-wise is looking deeply unsustainable.

Postecoglu has been said to be obsessed with acquiring a new number 9 according to FootballFancast and Football Insider say that Spurs could land Lille’s Jonathan David for as little as £25 million.

Surely Ange would be happy, and Levy would be delighted to take advantage of a situation?

Giovani Lo Celso has been a conundrum at Spurs, Recently he was rewarded for making 100 appearances, and that sparked the thought, ‘How long has he been with us?’ More importantly, however, will the Argentinian have a future under Ange Postecoglou, in his second season?

Certainly, the 28-year-old has dropped some impressive performances for his country, but is that ever going to happen for us?

𝐋𝐚 𝐝𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐋𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐨🇦🇷🐂

Il Toro regala la 16ª #CopaAmérica all’ #Argentina : è suo il gol al 112’ che decide la Gran Final contro la #Colombia ‼️⚽️#LautaroMartinez #Sportitalia pic.twitter.com/PM7y2kwi2u

— Sportitalia (@tvdellosport) July 15, 2024

Last night, Lo Celso got 23 minutes, which included the vital assist (above) and notched up a 100% passing accuracy, as Argentina won the CONMEBOL Copa América.

He’s in the shop window, let’s see if this encourages some positive activity.

Tottenham are looking to sign Sebastian Szymanski this summer.

Tottenham have added Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall to their squad. They have also extended Timo Werner’s loan spell but there is still a lot of work to be done during this transfer window as Ange Postecoglou looks to take the next step after an impressive start to life in North London.

The Australian manager seeks more quality in the final third and according to a report from CaughtOffside, Spurs are interested in the services of Sebastian Szymanski.

With Giovani Lo Celso expected to be on the move, the Fenerbahce attacking midfielder could be an ideal replacement. The Argentine international’s big-money move to Spurs hasn’t worked out. With his contract running out in 12 months’ time, a departure looks almost certain. With him leaving, Tottenham need a new number 10 who can support James Maddison.

Szymanski could be an exceptional signing for them as he can compete with Maddison for a place in the XI and can even feature on the flanks or even in a deeper midfield role. In his debut campaign with the Turkish giants, he scored 13 goals and bagged 19 assists. The 25-year-old’s current form suggests he could do wonders for Spurs.

The North London club have been scouting him for a while now and the report suggests he is set to be available for a fee of around €25-30 million. However, Spurs first need to sanction a few departures before they can continue signing players. Lo Celso’s future will have a big say on the potential signing of Szymanski. But, it won’t be that straightforward as Fenerbahce are not keen on selling him.

Tottenham full-back Emerson Royal remains keen on joining AC Milan this summer.

Emerson Royal’s future has been the talk of the town for some time now. The Brazilian full-back has fallen down the pecking order under Ange Postecoglou and is looking to part ways with Tottenham this summer in search of regular first-team action.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport via SportWitness, the former Barcelona defender has his heart set on a move to AC Milan having already agreed personal terms with them.

Emerson was an important part of Spurs’ first team since joining the North London club back in the summer of 2021 but the Australian manager’s arrival has hugely impacted his game time.

While he was involved in 24 matches last term, the majority of those appearances came because of an injury crisis. With him not a part of Postecoglou’s plans moving ahead, Tottenham are ready to sanction his departure and AC Milan have been working on a potential deal for some time now.

The Italian giants have already agreed on personal terms with the player who will be earning €2.5m a year after tax. With the player keen on making the move, Milan were hoping that they could put pressure on Spurs and strike a deal for a bargain fee of just €15 million.

But, the North London club have no intention of accepting such a low fee for the Brazilian full-back. While negotiations haven’t been going according to plan, Emerson remains interested in a move to Milan as he feels it can help him regain his place in the Brazil national team.

Tottenham Hotspur defender Djed Spence has been rumoured to leave the club this summer, with Genoa initially poised to secure his transfer.

Despite the collapse of the Genoa deal, Spence continues to attract interest from several clubs, including Ipswich Town, as potential moves are evaluated during the transfer window.

Club insider John Wenham has indicated that Ipswich Town and other Premier League clubs might target the 23-year-old defender.

In an interview with Tottenham News, Wenham noted that Spence has returned for pre-season training following the failed Genoa move.

Wenham believes that Spence is still likely to depart Spurs, with potential interest from Premier League clubs emerging as the transfer window progresses.

Spence joined the Lilywhites from Middlesbrough in the summer of 2022 for €14.7 million but has struggled for game time, making only six appearances and totalling just 41 minutes on the field.

Due to his limited playing time at Tottenham, Spence was loaned to Genoa for the latter half of the previous season, where he played in 16 Serie A matches.

His adaptability and potential impressed Genoa, but the asking price of £8.5 million was deemed too high, causing the deal to fall through.

Wenham emphasised that Ipswich Town might consider Spence if they miss out on other targets.

He said:

“Spence has returned for pre-season training, and it looks like a move to Genoa has stalled.

“I still think he will leave, and I suspect that some Premier League interest might emerge. The likes of Ipswich Town could perhaps look to move for him if they are to miss out on other targets.

“And there could be several other sides which come forward too.”

Tottenham are targeting a major defensive upgrade this summer with their interest in Fiorentina defender Nikola Milenkovic.

As reported by Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport, Spurs are eager to sign the 26-year-old centre-back, who has been compared to Nemanja Vidic for his outstanding performances in Serie A.

Milenkovic’s solid defending and consistent displays have made him a sought-after player among several Premier League clubs.

However, Tottenham face stiff competition from Nottingham Forest, who currently lead the pursuit of Milenkovic. Aston Villa and Fulham are also keeping tabs on the Serbian international, making this a highly competitive chase.

Milenkovic’s contract with Fiorentina extends until June 2027, providing the Italian club with a strong negotiating position.

Nonetheless, the prospect of playing in the Premier League might influence his decision.

In the previous season, Milenkovic was a key player for Fiorentina, making 50 appearances across all competitions and demonstrating his defensive capabilities.

On the international stage, Milenkovic represented Serbia in the UEFA Euro 2024, playing in all three group-stage matches against England, Slovenia, and Denmark.

Although Serbia exited early, finishing fourth in their group, Milenkovic’s performances were noteworthy, showcasing his dependability in major tournaments.

Tottenham currently boast a strong centre-back partnership in Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven.

However, Romero’s future at the club has come under slight uncertainty due to Real Madrid’s strong interest.

The Serbian could potentially be a replacement for the Argentine in the event that Spurs sell him.

That being said, it is highly unlikely that the club will consider selling their star defender who is seen as an integral part of Ange Postecoglou’s side.

Tottenham are actively looking to strengthen their squad this summer with new attacking talents.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Spurs are targeting Pedro Neto and Eberechi Eze during the current transfer window.

Romano reports that Tottenham’s interest in both players is genuine, with each valued at around £60 million. This potential double signing demonstrates the club’s ambition to enhance their attacking options.

In his Playback Live Show, Romano confirmed Spurs’ strong interest in Eze and Neto.

He mentioned that internal discussions are ongoing regarding the investment required, and it is clear that the Lilywhites aim to secure at least one more offensive player.

He said:

“There is appreciation from Spurs for Eberechi Eze of Crystal Palace – and also with all of the other options we always mention here like Pedro Neto, this is absolutely confirmed.

“So Tottenham like Eze and like Pedro Neto, and they have decided how much they want to spend in that position. So there is internal conversation, but they will bring in one more player in that position for sure – one more offensive player.”

Despite Neto’s contract with Wolverhampton Wanderers running until June 2027, a substantial offer could facilitate his move. Last season, the Portuguese winger scored 3 goals and provided 11 assists in 24 appearances across the Premier League and FA Cup. (Transfermarkt)

Neto’s speed, versatility, and attacking prowess have made him a standout player for Wolves and an appealing target for Tottenham.

Eze, meanwhile, has delivered impressive performances at Crystal Palace. The England international scored 11 goals and provided 4 assists in 27 Premier League appearances last season. (Transfermarkt)

His inclusion in England’s squad for the Euros highlights his talent and potential. Eze’s versatility and creativity align well with manager Ange Postecoglou’s attacking strategies, making him a valuable addition to the squad.

Tottenham’s pursuit of Eze is ambitious, given his £60 million release clause, but the club remains confident in their ability to secure his signature.

As the transfer window progresses, Tottenham hope they can secure at least one of these top targets to bolster their squad for the upcoming season.

Tottenham Hotspur have recently strengthened their squad with the acquisition of young talent Archie Gray from Leeds United for a reported fee of around £40 million.

Former Spurs goalkeeper Paul Robinson, speaking on Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, suggests that Gray’s arrival may facilitate Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg’s departure, as the club envisions Gray as a key midfielder.

Gray primarily played right-back for Leeds in the latter half of the previous season but is naturally a midfielder adept at both defensive and attacking roles.

Robinson emphasised that Tottenham’s plan for Gray is to utilise him in the midfield, reflecting discussions held prior to the transfer.

Despite his solid performances at right-back, Gray’s future under manager Ange Postecoglou is anticipated to be in central midfield, where his versatility is highly appreciated.

Robinson highlighted Gray’s exceptional stamina and ability to function as both a holding and attacking midfielder, making him a valuable asset for the team.

He said:

“Tottenham see him as a midfielder; they’ve signed him as a midfield player.

“No doubt that the club see him as a midfielder and that’s his position, and I think those conversations will have been had before the move was sanctioned.

“I know he filled in at right back for the second half of last season for Leeds and he did extremely well, [but] I don’t think that’s where he sees himself in the future.

“I think he’s got the versatility to play there and I think that’s one thing that obviously attracts other teams to sign Archie Gray.

“But I think from a Tottenham point of view, from a player’s point of view, he’s a central midfield player.

“He’s got a great engine, he can play both roles as a holding midfielder or an attacking midfielder, but also it gives Tottenham an option.”

The 18-year-old has signed a contract with the Lilywhites that will keep him at the club until June 2030.

Gray has been an outstanding performer for Leeds United, demonstrating his skills in various roles. Last season, he made 52 appearances across all competitions and was named the EFL Championship Young Player of the Season, further emphasizing his talent and adaptability.

Gray’s addition to Tottenham’s roster is a significant achievement for the club. His versatility and proven track record provide crucial depth and flexibility to Postecoglou’s squad.

As Tottenham aims to fortify their midfield, Gray’s potential impact could be a pivotal factor in the club’s success in the coming seasons.

Archie Gray is already making a name for himself at his new club Tottenham with impressive performances in training

Gray had an exceptional debut season with the Leeds United first team last season. The teenager’s consistent performances and his versatility resulted in a significant amount of interest from across Europe but Tottenham managed to beat the competition to sign the English youth international. They forked out a massive £40 million to bring him to the club.

Spurs rate the youngster quite highly and people at the club believe he could end up playing an important role in the team under Ange Postecoglou. Having seen him do well for Leeds in the Championship as a full-back and in his preferred role in the centre of the park, there are a lot of expectations from the English sensation.

According to a report from Football London, Gray seems to living up to those expectations as he has managed to impress the club staff in the first week of their pre-season. The midfielder has been putting in some great work in training and he seems to have adapted well to life in North London.

Gray has already had his first minutes in the Tottenham shirt. Postecoglou’s men were involved in a behind-closed-doors friendly at their training ground against Cambridge United on Saturday afternoon. The manager gave every available member of his squad a run and Gray is believed to have played as a right-back in the second half in a game they won 7-2.