Tottenham have announced the departure of Damola Ajayi, who is set to join League Two club Bromley on loan for the rest of the season. The 20-year-old was brought back from his loan stint at Doncaster Rovers before making the move, having made 19 appearances and scored two goals with one assist across all competitions.
Ajayi has previously been integrated into Tottenham's first-team setup, making his senior debut in a Europa League victory against Elfsborg. He managed to find the back of the net in the match, marking himself as a promising prospect during the 3-0 win, and continued his progression through the academy ranks.
Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT
Although his involvement at Doncaster wasn't as extensive as he might have hoped, the move to Bromley signifies a homecoming for the young player. He had previously played for the League Two side's academy before transferring to Tottenham.
Ajayi's move represents the sixth deal that Spurs have finalised in a bustling January transfer window, hot on the heels of confirming the acquisition of Conor Gallagher. The midfielder arrived from Atletico Madrid in a deal estimated to be worth around £34million.
Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT
"I'm so happy and excited to be here, taking the next step in my career at an amazing club," Gallagher expressed after signing his contract. "I wanted to be a Spurs player and thankfully the club felt the same. It was very easy."
Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT
"It happened very quickly and I'm ready to get on the pitch. I know how great the fans are, I'm really happy to be a part of it here and want to create special moments and memories together."
Thomas Frank added: "Conor is a top midfielder, who we have worked tirelessly to add to our squad. He is still young so has plenty of room for improvement but also has huge experience across the Premier League, La Liga and with the England national team.
Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT
"Conor has captained teams so will bring leadership, maturity, character and personality to our dressing room, while his running power, pressing ability and eye for goal will strengthen us in a key area of the pitch."
Gallagher's arrival follows Brennan Johnson's departure, which divided opinion amongst supporters as the Europa League winner secured a switch to Crystal Palace. The forward had found opportunities limited under Frank failing to establish himself as a regular, with the club's hierarchy opting to cash in whilst his value remained strong.
Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT
Additional departures include loan switches for Jamie Donley to Oxford United, Manor Solomon to Fiorentina, Kota Takai to Borussia Monchengladbach, and Yang Min-Hyeok to Coventry City. There remains optimism that the January transfer window could signal the beginning of an upturn in fortunes for Tottenham.
Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT
Loan deals for rising talents like Ajayi could provide more playing time and chances to develop for players who still have the potential to contribute to the senior team. It seems Tottenham's dealings are far from finished, with additional transfers being arranged for the remainder of the window.
Young left-back Souza appears poised for a £13m transfer to Tottenham in the upcoming weeks, which should bolster their defensive options. Destiny Udogie's injury woes have resulted in Djed Spence being moved to the left for most of the season, reducing competition on the right for Pedro Porro.
Football transfer news and rumours plus selected offers and competitions Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
Get More of Our News on Google
Set Daily Express as a 'Preferred Source' to get quicker access to the news you value.
The Brazilian's arrival should enhance the quality of the defence, as well as offering plenty of promise for the future. There may be further transfers if the club determines that Frank requires additional attacking strength.
With Johnson's departure, followed by injuries to Mohammed Kudus and Richarlison, Spurs are left with limited options upfront to assist in creating and scoring goals. It remains uncertain whether any targets will emerge for this area of the pitch, as we reach the two-week point in the January market.