Tottenham Hotspur suffered another defeat at home on Saturday. Thomas Frank’s side exited the FA Cup at the hands of Aston Villa, losing 2-1.
Wilson Odobert managed to pull one back for Spurs and whilst that got the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium more in gear, it didn’t produce enough to push Frank’s side to an equaliser.
Richarlison, who again been subject to transfer rumours recently, left the pitch with a hamstring injury in the first half. The mood around Spurs hasn’t improved and the injuries continue to pile up at the Premier League club.
If ever there was a need for a boost, and some optimism for the future then it’s now.
Tottenham will hope that comes in the form of expected arrival João Victor de Souza Menezes. Almost always referred to as simply Souza, the 19-year-old is on the verge of joining from Santos.
Spurs initially offered €10m for the fullback, which was rejected by Santos. They then returned with €15m, enough to convince the Brazilian club to part ways.
Santos played their season opener on Saturday against Novorizontino. The youngster’s camp had requested he not be considered for the match so as to avoid any last minute issues ahead of his move to Tottenham.
Manager speaks about Tottenham transfer
Without Souza, Juan Pablo Vojvoda’s side won 2-1 and after the match the manager was asked about the transfer to Spurs.
Quoted by Brazil’s UOL, he said: “I don’t know if it’s completely settled. There are several factors. Souza has grown a lot in recent months. He’s experienced some tough moments and responded well. There’s a context, family, club, the player’s future.
“We have to respect that, listen to all sides and see what’s best. What’s best for Santos, and without forgetting that he’s a player who was born here. I don’t know if it’s finalised, but it’s on track for him to become another Santos player in the world of football.”
Many in Brazil believe Souza is ready to play at a good level in Europe and he could therefore be an option for Thomas Frank in the second half of the season.
Tottenham are 14th in the Premier League and out of both domestic cups. Things are better in the Champions League, and it’s that and qualifying for Europe which will now be priorities.