Tottenham have confirmed the loan departure of defender Ashley Phillips, who has rejoined Stoke City.
Phillips spent last season on loan at the bet365 Stadium and stood out as a key player with some impressive displays.
Tottenham now have a surplus of centre-backs, meaning that there was no room for the 20-year-old to make his mark in the first team in the upcoming campaign.
The defender will now receive regular opportunities in the Championship, and Spurs will have the additional benefit of a small financial boost with Phillips departing.
Tottenham to save money on Phillips’ wages
Stoke will cover Phillips’ wages during the season, which will mean Spurs enjoy a saving while he is out on loan.
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The 20-year-old is on a salary of around £20,000 per week (Capology), which works out at around £1.04million per year.
With Phillips on loan until June 30, 2026, Spurs will save the vast majority of these wages, at around £1m, but while this is a small bonus, there is a bigger picture.
Tottenham now have increased depth at centre-back, and this could mean Phillips departs permanently next summer, but if he continues to perform well, this will only increase his value.
Where Phillips ranks among Tottenham’s highest earners
Cutting the wage bill where possible may be on the agenda this summer, to make room for new signings, as well as removing any underperforming players on huge contracts.
Son-Heung min is the club’s highest earner, on around £200k-per-week, and the Spurs captain is in talks over an exit after a disappointing season.
Phillips ranks near the bottom of the wage bill but is ahead of other players in his age group. Yang Hyeok-min, Dane Scarlett, Alfie Devine and Mikey Moore are all on much lower salaries than the 20-year-old.
The defender would clearly be wasted on the bench as a fifth or sixth choice option, and a loan is the best move considering all factors.
The centre-back rejected other offers to return to Stoke after his fine campaign last season, in which he made 39 appearances across all competitions.