Thomas Frank could be Ange Postecoglou's replacement, but he must ignore the temptation to reunite with Bryan Mbeumo and instead push Tottenham Hotspur to win the race for Xavi Simons as his first signing.
The Brentford manager has become Spurs' top target to replace Postecoglou following the Australian's sacking on Friday (June 6). GIVEMESPORT sources understand that several meetings have taken place between the Dane and Daniel Levy.
Frank hasn't even arrived at the North London giants and there's already talk of Mbeumo following him to the Lilywhites. Reports suggest the Europa League winners could hijack Manchester United's move for the £60m rated Bees forward.
To Be Frank: Simons Should Be Spurs' Top Target
Dutch ace should be priortised over Mbeumo
It's easy to immediately talk up a player following their former manager to a new club and there is evidence that their experience comes in handy. If Frank were to arrive at Tottenham and Mbeumo were to follow after, there is a good chance the 25-year-old will continue where he left off under the current Brentford manager.
Mbeumo finished in the top five of the Premier League's goalscoring charts last season with 20 goals. He's proven, but he's not Simons.
Simons has become one of the most exciting prospects in Europe and has been linked with the North Londoners ahead of an expected RB Leipzig exit this summer.
'Superstar' Simons caught the eye during the Netherlands' Euro 2024 campaign, producing a stunning strike in a 2-1 semi-final loss to England. He is an "electric" attacker whose versatility allows him to flourish in attacking midfield, out on the left (Son Heung-min needs a long-term replacement), on the right, and as a second striker.
Former Tottenham midfielder Rafael van dar Vaart described how enormously talented the 22-year-old was back in 2023 (via Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo):
"When I look at his potential, I see that he can become the best player in the world. Believe me: In a few years we'll all be saying: 'It's good to be able to have this kid in our national team."
Those comments came amid Simons ascending to the role of PSV Eindhoven's main protagonist just before turning 20. He showed maturity beyond his years and struck a remarkable tally of 19 goals and eight assists.
Simons adapted to life in Germany with Leipzig with ease after joining from parent club Paris Saint-Germain after his impressive Euro 2024 exploits. He became one of Europe's most highly sought-after talents and his stock has continued to grow.
The Netherlands international is the high-profile signing that would indicate Levy wants to build on a first major trophy in 17 years by luring the very best to North London. Sometimes you're better off hitting the refresh button and Simons would be just that.
All statistics courtesy of SofaScore - correct as of 08.06.2025