Daniel Levy is not expected to leave the latest mishap at Tottenham unscathed.
Tottenham were on track to have a season and summer to remember. Thomas Frank had shown tactical flexibility against PSG in the UEFA Super Cup final, which impressed Spurs supporters.
Meanwhile, against Burnley, Richarlison looked like a new player as the North London club revelled in the possible season that awaited him.
New signings Mohammed Kudus and Joao Palhinha had gotten off to a fine start in North London. Kudus in particular shone for Frank in their first win of the Premier League season.
But things have not all been smooth sailing at Spurs, as recent developments are set to have dire consequences.
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This article includes exclusive comments from Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham.
Tottenham’s relationship with Crystal Palace put under the microscope
Tottenham were on track to sign Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace this summer.
But just as the final details were being ironed out, Arsenal swooped in and stole Eze from Spurs. This comes after the Lilywhites missed out on Morgan Gibbs-White, who decided to extend with Nottingham Forest.
Two huge transfers for Tottenham. Two huge failures.
The speed at which the Gunners were able to hijack the transfer has been questioned. As such, Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes Spurs’ and Palace’s relationship could be strained in the future.
“I think moving forward, Tottenham’s relationship with Palace will be interesting as well,” Wenham said.
“I think they’ll feel let down by Palace, in that they have this deal agreed, and look, Palace’s job is to get the best interests for Palace, so that they don’t care what Tottenham’s best interests are, of course.
“But I think there’ll be a real frustration at Tottenham with Palace. So a very, very disappointing day for Tottenham and their supporters because I think Eze would have been an outstanding signing for us and really would have elevated the club.
“So to not get that over the line and so publicly lose him, but not only to lose him, but also losing to Arsenal, is just a massive, massive blow.”
Who are the alternatives for Tottenham?
Frank still wants to sign a 10 as a replacement for James Maddison, who sustained an ACL injury against Newcastle United during a pre-season game.
This likely means Spurs will re-enter the transfer market for a solution.
Nico Paz is an option which Tottenham believes is viable this summer.
Southampton gem Tyler Dibling has also emerged as an alternative for the Lilywhites. While Everton are keen to sign him this summer, there is every chance he lands in North London before 1 September.
While these options are considered a step down by many Tottenham fans, an injection of youth could be just what this Spurs team needs.