The transfer window is seeing competition between Premier League clubs Arsenal, Manchester United and Tottenham as they attempt to get signings over the line in their quest for success
The trouble with good players can often be how sought-after they are. If there's a clear path to their signature, perhaps they aren't as spectacular as expected or maybe, if you're lucky, you know something others don't.
Tottenham's transfer ambitions this summer are certainly not for unknown, uncut gems and have instead taken the shape of prized Premier League possessions. Laudable, and good moves if they can be pulled off, but the Lilywhites may just find out how problematic such deals can be if you can't get them over the line.
With the arrival of Thomas Frank came a desire to land Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo but Spurs weren't first on the scene. The Cameroon international's interest in a move to Manchester United had already developed but Daniel Levy was not immediately dismayed.
Spurs jumped into the race with a bid worth £10million more than United's own offer when they launched a £70m approach. From the outside it sounds like the bold move required to sign a player who scored 20 Premier League goals last term.
But despite holding all the cards: a bigger bid, a familiar face in Frank, and being able to offer Champions League football, it seems the club will have to turn elsewhere. Ruben Amorim's side look set to agree a deal worth £65m, with Mbeumo anticipated to complete a deal next week.
Football doesn't always make sense, although Manchester United did finish two places above their rivals in the league despite falling to them in the Europa League final. Perhaps money talks or perhaps the Red Devils' stature remains worth more than more tangible qualities.
What may be more frustrating is that Tottenham could once again find themselves as the odd one out, unable to capture the attention of the figure commanding everyone's eyes on the dancefloor that is the transfer window.
With the competition of an even fiercer rival, Spurs may be forced to jink and jive to standout. Arsenal could be the team to scupper Tottenham's back-up plan after 'holding talks' with Eberechi Eze's representatives.
Spurs have long-tracked the Crystal Palace and England star but may struggle to hold a candle to Arsenal's Premier League ambitions after a difficult time in 2024/25. Eze made it on to Spurs' shortlist but it appears the Gunners could jump the queue with Andrea Berta already on the case and in conversations.
The Europa League champions cannot even repeat their ploy to land Mbeumo as Eze has a release clause in his contract. The former QPR starlet can be taken from Selhurst Park for £68m, ensuring the 26-year-old has almost the only say in his future.
But a scenario where Spurs are left chasing another target is not out of the realms of possibility. The will once again attempt to please, persuade and impress that they are a more suitable option to settle down with over their north London neighbours.
It is the Gunners who can offer a stable environment and will strive for the greatest gold in 2025/26 however. Spurs meanwhile are onto the seventh new face in their dugout since Eze became a Premier League player in 2020 - they will have their work cut out once again.
Someone will be left unhappy come the end of the summer. For the moment, Spurs are most at risk.