Tottenham's worst fears have been realised - James Maddison is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines after suffering a devastating ACL injury that will keep him out for more than six months. The 28-year-old was stretchered off during Spurs' pre-season draw with Newcastle in South Korea last weekend after aggravating the same knee injury that kept him out of the Europa League final in May.
The timing couldn't be worse. With the start of the Premier League season fast approaching and a long-awaited return to Champions League football on the horizon - a stage Maddison was set to grace for the first time - the injury has left new manager Thomas Frank and the Spurs hierarchy scrambling for solutions. Maddison's absence doesn't just rob Tottenham of their creative heartbeat, but it also reshapes the club's entire attacking strategy. Now, with precious weeks remaining in the window, reinforcements are likely to be explored and very possibly pursued. Here, Express Football looks at the most plausible options to fill the void.
Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT
Eberechi Eze
Eberechi Eze has been in Tottenham's crosshairs for some time, and Maddison's injury could finally push them to act. The Crystal Palace midfielder's flair, versatility and goal threat make him an ideal candidate to step into Maddison's role - especially after a standout season in which he registered 14 goals and 11 assists, including the winner in the FA Cup final.
Palace remain firm on Eze's £68million release clause, but Spurs may be willing to meet the price given the growing urgency. With Heung-min Son also departing for LAFC earlier this week, the attacking void in Frank's squad is significant - and Eze has the tools to help fill it.
His unique blend of physical power and technical finesse, coupled with proven Premier League experience, makes him a highly attractive target. But Tottenham may not have a clear path to his signature, with Arsenal also reportedly weighing up a move.
Jacob Ramsey
Jacob Ramsey's dynamic box-to-box energy offers Tottenhham a different flavour of attacking midfielder. The 24-year-old's work rate and ability to carry the ball forward could complement Spurs' setup, but his lack of goals - scoring just once in the Premier League last season - might raise concerns about his end product.
Aston Villa have reportedly slapped a £40m price tag on Ramsey, but with their financial situation under pressure, that figure could soften as the window progresses. Tottenham have been monitoring him for a while, drawn not just to his creative impact but also his defensive contributions and tactical versatility.
While he may not match Maddison's flair or final-third input, his youth, homegrown status and all-action style could make him a shrewd investment for a club looking to build for the future while addressing immediate needs.
Harvey Elliott
Harvey Elliott was once seen as the future of Liverpool's midfield, but his trajectory has stalled. After making just two Premier League starts under Arne Slot last season, his long-term prospects at Anfield look dead in the water.
While RB Leipzig have been linked with a move, Tottenham could seize the opportunity to offer Elliott a domestic lifeline - and a clear path to regular first-team football. At 22, Elliott still has significant room to develop, and his versatility, creativity, and European experience make him an enticing prospect.
Liverpool, however, are reluctant to let him go easily. They've reportedly set a £40m asking price with a buy-back clause, rising to £50m without one. Despite the fee, Spurs may view Elliott as a gamble worth taking. His technical ability, relentless work rate, and tactical flexibility - traits that earned him regular minutes under Jurgen Klopp - could make him a valuable addition both now and in the long term.
Jack Grealish
Jack Grealish's stint at Manchester City may have fallen short of expectations, but on his day, the 29-year-old still possesses match-winning quality. Currently in talks with Everton, Grealish could yet be tempted by a move to Tottenham - especially with Champions League football on offer. Spurs, long-time admirers of the England international, may now see an opening to finally get their man.
While critics argue his best days are behind him, Grealish still brings proven Premier League experience and creative flair in abundance. His dribbling, vision, and ability to dictate tempo - hallmarks of his Villa peak - could offer a different dimension to Spurs' attack. However, his high wages remain a potential stumbling block.
The reported £40m price tag may also seem steep for a player turning 30 next month, but a loan deal could present a more pragmatic solution, especially with Maddison's injury creating a short-term need. Grealish's knack for drawing fouls and slowing the pace could bring control during chaotic spells, complementing Frank's high-intensity setup. Still, after an underwhelming last couple of seasons at the Etihad, any move - whether long-term or short - would carry an element of risk.
James McAtee
James McAtee, 22, is one of Manchester City's most promising emerging talents, boasting the technical finesse and vision well-suited to a No. 10 role. Despite limited first-team opportunities at the Etihad, his quality is evident, and a permanent move could be on the cards if a club is willing to meet City's valuation, reportedly around £40m.
With Cole Palmer's breakthrough at Chelsea setting the precedent, Tottenham could present McAtee with a fast-tracked path to regular Premier League football. His ability to link play, thread passes, and unlock defences echoes aspects of Maddison's game, though he still lacks top-flight experience. That said, his loan spell at Sheffield United offered encouraging signs, showcasing his sharp passing, intelligent movement, and ability to control games.
For Spurs, McAtee represents an intriguing prospect: a high-upside, long-term investment with the potential to flourish under the right guidance. However, given their need for an immediate impact signing, the club may be inclined to prioritise more experienced, ready-made options.
Carney Chukwuemeka
Once seen as one of England's brightest midfield prospects, Carney Chukwuemeka has slipped under the radar at Chelsea. But at 21, his raw talent - marked by sharp dribbling, creative vision, and physical presence - remains undeniable. Injuries and limited minutes at Stamford Bridge make a £30m exit plausible, though Dortmund - who took him on loan last season - are also circling.
While his lack of top-flight experience presents a risk, Chukwuemeka's versatility and technical skillset may ease those concerns. He showed flashes of brilliance at Chelsea under former Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino, with explosive bursts and an ability to beat defenders that could bring a fresh, unpredictable edge to Tottenham's midfield.
Of all the candidates, Chukwuemeka comes with the most question marks but maintains a high ceiling. If Spurs can tap into his potential, he could prove to be a transformative signing rather than just a gamble.