Real Madrid forward Rodrygo has been at the centre of reports that he could leave the Bernabeu mid-season following a lack of game time under Xabi Alonso, and Tottenham are believed to be among the contenders for his signature.
Rodrygo finds himself at a career crossroads as his situation at Madrid continues to deteriorate.
The Brazilian, once considered a crucial part of Los Blancos' attacking plans, has seen his role dramatically diminish since Alonso's appointment, sparking widespread speculation about a potential January departure.
Rodrygo has played just 359 minutes this season, having started just two out of a possible 10 La Liga games, and is firmly behind Vinícius Júnior in the pecking order for his preferred left-wing position.
The 24-year-old, who was regularly linked with a summer exit, including to Spurs, has struggled for opportunities despite his previous contributions to the club's success.
ESPN Brasil have backed up the possibility that Rodrygo could leave in January, stating that the ex-Santos sensation is "dissatisfied with his situation" and "maintains the option" of leaving as early as the next transfer window.
This has put a host of Premier League sides on alert, including Tottenham once again, and there are suggestions that the north Londoners could go all out for his signature.
Now backed by the Lewis family as they attempt to usher in a post-Daniel Levy era, the club, led by co-sporting directors Fabio Paratici and Johan Lange are apparently prepared to pay a club-record £70 million for Rodrygo, according to reports from Spain.
The £283,000-per-week star would be a statement signing for the Lilywhites, and reports suggest that Real are prepared to slash his asking price from their original £88 million summer valuation down to around £53 million, amid rival interest from Arsenal and Chelsea (TEAMtalk).
This means that Spurs' mooted £70m stance would be more than enough, but none of this means anything without the player's approval.
Indeed, Rodrygo has now moved to speak out about his Madrid future, attempting to quell the noise surrounding his unrest in the Spanish capital.
Rodrygo breaks silence on Real Madrid future amid Tottenham interest
Speaking to the media, Rodrygo has hinted at his unhappiness surrounding game time right now, but also suggests he has no fears when it comes to inclusion in Brazil's 2026 World Cup squad.
While the attacker appears to be presenting the front of 'I'll work hard for the manager', behind-the-scenes whispers tell a different story, and we wouldn't at all be surprised if a Premier League club manages to tempt him across the channel.
Meanwhile, football finance expert Stefan Borson is convinced that Tottenham could sign Rodrygo on loan.
"I think to do it permanently would be almost impossible for all but a couple of sides," Borson told Football Insider.
“I think the loan situation is different, of course, because there’s a sliding scale as to what people pay. Do they pay a loan fee? Do they pay all his wages? Do they pay a loan fee plus his wages? That depends on how much Real Madrid want him out the door, want to see him in a different league and if other people want to take that gamble.
“I think it looks like he’s the sort of player that could interest Spurs on a loan, especially if the purse strings are being loosened by the Lewis family and they want a bit of magic dust into the side. He could be a good player for that.”
Tottenham take on Arsenal in a mouth-watering North London derby clash this weekend, with all eyes on that and the looming January window as Frank looks to put his stamp on the squad.