TEAMtalk

The final major selection call in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for this summer’s World Cup came down to Tottenham Hotspur defender Djed Spence, with TEAMtalk sources confirming the versatile full-back ultimately secured one of the final places on the plane to North America after late fitness concerns were resolved.

TEAMtalk understands Spence’s inclusion was far from guaranteed earlier this week following the injury he sustained during Tottenham Hotspur’s clash against Chelsea.

The 24-year-old suffered a broken jaw in that fixture, and there were immediate fears internally within the England camp that the defender would be unable to recover in time for the tournament.

Sources have revealed that Arsenal youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly was initially set to be handed what was effectively viewed as the final available spot in Tuchel’s 26-man squad while doubts lingered over Spence’s condition.

However, after undergoing further medical checks and receiving positive assurances regarding both his recovery timeline and ability to safely participate in the tournament, Spence was ultimately declared “good to go” by England’s medical staff.

TEAMtalk can confirm that the decision proved decisive in Tuchel finalising his squad.

Spence’s inclusion is viewed as a significant show of faith from Tuchel, particularly given the number of established full-back names overlooked for the tournament.

TEAMtalk understands Trent Alexander-Arnold, Luke Shaw and Newcastle United defender Lewis Hall have all missed out despite being seriously considered during the selection process.

Tuchel and his staff are believed to have been hugely impressed by Spence’s athleticism, defensive recovery ability and tactical flexibility throughout the season.

The Tottenham defender’s resurgence over the past year has been one of the more impressive stories among England-qualified players, and sources indicate his ability to operate aggressively on either flank made him an increasingly attractive option within Tuchel’s system.

TEAMtalk were able to reveal the vast majority of Tuchel’s squad decisions earlier this week, including several headline omissions…

England World Cup squad: Tuchel leaves out several big names

Among the biggest casualties are Harry Maguire, Cole Palmer, Phil Foden and Adam Wharton, all of whom had previously featured prominently under Tuchel during the qualification process and recent international windows.

Morgan Gibbs-White and Jarrod Bowen have also missed out despite strong domestic campaigns, while veteran Jordan Henderson has retained Tuchel’s trust and remains part of the final squad.

The expected England squad is understood to be:

Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford, James Trafford, Dean Henderson.

Defenders: Reece James, Djed Spence, Tino Livramento, Nico O’Reilly, Dan Burn, Ezri Konsa, Jarell Quansah, John Stones, Marc Guehi.

Midfielders: Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson, Jordan Henderson, Kobbie Mainoo, Jude Bellingham, Morgan Rogers, Eberechi Eze.

Forwards: Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke, Marcus Rashford, Anthony Gordon, Ivan Toney, Ollie Watkins, Harry Kane.

TEAMtalk understands Tuchel’s final discussions with his staff stretched late into the week, but Spence’s recovery ultimately removed one of the final major uncertainties surrounding England’s squad ahead of the World Cup finals.

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez has told the club’s owners, BlueCo, to sign his Argentina international team-mate Cristian Romero from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer transfer window, according to a reliable journalist, as TEAMtalk reveals Spurs’ stance on selling their captain.

Fernandez has been at Chelsea since 2023 and has established himself as one of the best players at the London club.

The Argentina international midfielder is 25 now and is a senior figure at Chelsea, who will have former Real Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso as their manager from July 1.

The future of Fernandez at Chelsea is far from certain, with top clubs in England interested in signing him in the summer transfer window.

TEAMtalk’s transfer correspondent, Fraser Fletcher, has reported that Arsenal and Manchester City are interested in a 2026 summer deal for Fernandez.

Sources have told us that Barcelona have also taken a shine to the former Benfica star, who won the 2022 World Cup and the Copa America in 2024 with Argentina.

It has now emerged that Fernandez has held talks with Chelsea owners, BlueCo, over his future.

According to reliable Chelsea FC journalist Simon Phillips, during his talks, Fernandez has told Chelsea to sign his Argentina international team-mate Cristian Romero from Tottenham.

Phillips on his Substack: “Our sources heard that Fernandez recently had new conversations with the club over a new contract, but nothing was agreed at this point.

“In these conversations, Fernandez told the club to sign Cristian Romero from Tottenham and wants to see more top players come in.”

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Tottenham Hotspur stance on Cristian Romero future – sources

Romero signed a new contract with Tottenham only last summer, but TEAMtalk understands that the north London club are willing to sell him at the end of the season.

Our transfer correspondent, Fraser Fletcher, reported on February 4 that Tottenham will demand a record fee for Romero should they not get relegated to the Championship.

Sources have told us that Tottenham will look for £70-£80 million (up to €92.7m, $109.5m) for Romero.

That would make the defender the most expensive Argentine defender in history.

Lisandro Martinez currently holds that status following his £57million (€66m, $78m) switch to Manchester United from Ajax in 2022.

We understand that Atletico Madrid and Barcelona are currently exploring a potential move for Romero, with one of the pair seen as a leading contender.

Atletico Madrid and Borussia Dortmund are battling to sign Brighton midfielder Matt O’Riley, though TEAMtalk understands that Tottenham are emerging as a surprise potential destination for the midfielder, with Roberto de Zerbi a big fan.

Well-placed sources have confirmed that Atletico and Dortmund are both showing what is described as ‘strong’ interest as the summer transfer window approaches.

The 25-year-old Danish international, who returned early from a loan spell at Marseille, is attracting significant attention from two of Europe’s most ambitious sides.

O’Riley joined Brighton from Celtic in a £25 million deal in August 2024 – the deal set a record for the highest transfer fee received by a Scottish club.

However, his time at the Amex Stadium has been mixed. Injuries, coupled with limited first-team opportunities under head coach Fabian Hurzeler, prompted a season-long loan to Marseille in September 2025.

He impressed in Ligue 1 and the Champions League, making 25 appearances and scoring once before the deal was terminated in February 2026, with Brighton recalling him to bolster their squad for the run-in.

Despite flashes of quality, O’Riley has struggled for consistent minutes in the Premier League. Brighton are understood to be open to a permanent sale this summer if the price is right, viewing it as an opportunity to recoup their investment and reshape their midfield.

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Tottenham join race for Brighton star after ‘meetings’

Sources suggest Brighton value O’Riley in the region of £35million, though any deal would activate a sell-on clause benefiting Celtic, upping the price.

Atletico Madrid have long admired the technically gifted central midfielder. Diego Simeone’s side made an approach for O’Riley while he was at Celtic and have now reignited their interest.

The Spaniard’s preference for disciplined, hard-working players aligns well with O’Riley’s profile as a box-to-box operator capable of both defensive steel and attacking creativity.

Borussia Dortmund are also keen, seeking midfield reinforcements ahead of what could be a transitional campaign. Niko Kovac and the club’s scouting team are said to rate O’Riley highly for his versatility and work rate, seeing him as an ideal fit for the high-pressing style at Signal Iduna Park.

Marseille, where O’Riley enjoyed a productive first half of the season, remain interested in a permanent move but may struggle to match the financial demands of Brighton and their competitors.

But he also could be one to watch for Tottenham. De Zerbi likes O’Riley ‘a lot’, per sources, and if Spurs survive relegation, do not be surprised if they enter the race. Sources say his name has come up in recruitment meetings at Tottenham.

For O’Riley, a move to either La Liga, another Premier League side or the Bundesliga would represent a significant step in his career, offering regular football at a high level.

Brighton, meanwhile, will be prepared to listen to offers but will not sanction a cut-price exit for a player who is still under contract until 2029.

A long-term Tottenham target is said to be ‘edging closer’ to the exit from a French club, with the side ‘prepared’ to sell the winger during the summer.

Spurs will need to recruit some quality over the summer to finally begin to climb back up the Premier League, providing they’re still in it next season. Last campaign, they came 17th, and that’s where they sit this season with two games to go.

The attack is an area Tottenham evidently want to recruit in, having been turned away as they pursued Maghnes Akliouche in January.

But the long-term target remains on the radar, per Football Insider, who state that the Monaco winger is ‘edging closer’ to the exit from the French club.

Despite being turned away previously, Spurs could be in a better position now, with the Ligue 1 side ‘prepared to sell’ Akliouche and raise funds from that transfer.

Tottenham are not alone in their interest, though, with insider Pete O’Rourke stating: “Maghnes Akliouche is obviously a player who’s been on their radar for a long time.

“Tottenham will be keeping tabs on him and they are looking to be kept informed on his future. Monaco are well aware of the growing interest in him and probably would sell at the right price.

“For Tottenham, I’m sure they’ll be looking to be in that race for him. But I think it’ll be difficult for them just due to that lack of European football and because of the probably rival interest from other clubs.”

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Tottenham have a confirmed Akliouche rival

A number of other sides have been linked with Akliouche in recent months, but sources have confirmed one to TEAMtalk: Aston Villa.

In late April, sources states Villa are preparing to significantly invest in their squad – which will next season return to the Champions League – and the Monaco winger is one of the men they’re keen on adding to the mix.

While he’s a serious target for the club, he’s also got a lot of other sides after him.

Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United and Newcastle are all in the mix, too, so the race for the French international – who has six goals and seven assists in Ligue 1 this season – will be a hotly-contested one.

Tottenham Hotspur have an agreement to make Bournemouth star Marcos Senesi one of their first signings of the summer, but with the centre-back’s departure from the Cherries now confirmed, Liverpool could launch a stunning hijack attempt.

Barcelona also remain interested in the defender, so a late twist involving the LaLiga giants could yet materialise, too.

TEAMtalk insider, Graeme Bailey, revealed back in April that Spurs had reached an agreement in principle to sign Senesi via agency, once his Bournemouth contract expires this summer.

Senesi’s pending departure from the Vitality has now been officially announced. “AFC Bournemouth can confirm that Marcos Senesi will leave the club this summer upon the expiry of his contract, bringing an end to four memorable years on the south coast,” read a statement on Bournemouth’s website.

The 27-year-old has enjoyed an excellent season for the Cherries, helping them to keep 11 clean sheets in 35 Premier League appearances. Tottenham, under Roberto De Zerbi, are certainly in need of defensive reinforcements, amid uncertainty surrounding Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven.

However, as we reported at the time, Tottenham’s signing of Senesi hinges upon them avoiding relegation. That is looking more likely but not yet guaranteed, as they sit two points above the drop zone with two matches remaining.

Crucially, it’s worth noting that while Spurs have an agreement in principle, nothing is formalised with Senesi. This means others could yet swoop in, with Liverpool the main side to watch out for.

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‘Keep an eye on Liverpool’

Respected journalist, Fabrizio Romano, stated on his YouTube channel earlier this month that Liverpool have ‘entered the race’ for Senesi, and that he will most likely be staying in the Premier League.

Arne Slot’s side are actively looking to add another new centre-back after Jeremy Jacquet, and view Senesi as a potential target, while Chelsea have also been keeping an eye on his situation, along with Tottenham.

“Senesi will stay in the Premier League, and beyond the two clubs I already mentioned—Chelsea and Tottenham, especially Tottenham, Liverpool have also entered the race quite strongly in recent days,” Romano said.

“So keep an eye on Liverpool, because they’re expected to make new contacts for Marcos Senesi.”

However, we understand that Barcelona should not be discounted from the race just yet.

TEAMtalk revealed in our report earlier this month that the Catalans have shortlisted Senesi.

Their top target for defence is Inter Milan centre-back Alessandro Bastoni, but should they miss out on him for any reason, Senesi could become a serious option.

With this in mind, Tottenham have an anxious wait to see if Senesi keeps to his verbal agreement and joins this summer, as competition intensifies.

Tottenham Hotspur boss Roberto De Zerbi is reportedly a big fan of Fiorentina midfielder Nicolo Fagioli, and the London side have received a big ‘hint’ that he could be on his way out of the Italian club this summer.

Spurs’ transfer business this summer will hinge on whether they avoid relegation, but that is looking more likely, as they sit two points above the Premier League’s bottom three with two matches remaining.

Transfer planning is well underway, regardless, and various reports from the Italian press have stated that De Zerbi wants to bring Fagioli to Spurs this summer.

Fiorentina have endured an awful season, but the 25-year-old defensive midfielder has been one of their standout performers, having notched three goals and three assists in 44 appearances in all competitions.

Now, according to Firenze Viola, as cited by Sport Witness, Fagioli has ‘changed agents’ ahead of the summer – strongly suggesting he’s eyeing a move away from Fiorentina.

Tottenham ‘appear to be lining up’ a move for Fagioli, and are ‘getting serious’ about bringing him in, per the report, which will no doubt please De Zerbi.

It’s clear that Spurs need to bring in additions in multiple positions to improve next season, and De Zerbi is expected to have a big say in which players they go for.

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Tottenham eye Serie A maestro amid Palhinha uncertainty

The interest in Fagioli comes amid uncertainty surrounding Tottenham midfielder Joao Palhinha, who is at the club on loan from Bayern Munich.

The 30-year-old’s loan deal includes a £27million option to buy, and despite struggling for form in periods this season, he has managed to re-establish himself under De Zerbi.

As TEAMtalk insider, Graeme Bailey, reported yesterday, De Zerbi is a huge admirer of Palhinha’s experience, tactical discipline and leadership qualities and has made it clear internally that he would like the midfielder to remain at the club.

The Portuguese has once again enjoyed life back in London after previously impressing in the Premier League during his time at Fulham.

However, there remains a growing possibility that the midfielder could now consider a return to his homeland.

Palhinha’s former club Sporting CP, along with Benfica and Porto, are interested in signing Palhinha this summer and could try and tempt him.

Tottenham’s pursuit of Fagioli could therefore intensify should Palhinha depart Spurs this summer. But in any case, the Fiorentina maestro is a player to keep a close eye on.

Tottenham Hotspur’s chances of signing Michele Di Gregorio look very slim, with Liverpool now making a move to bring the Juventus star to Anfield, according to the Italian media, as TEAMtalk reveals the name of the Premier League goalkeeper that the Reds are determined to sign.

TEAMtalk’s transfer insider, Graeme Bailey, reported on February 24 that Tottenham are planning to offload Guglielmo Vicario in the summer transfer window.

Spurs, though, will need a replacement for the Italian goalkeeper, with TuttoSport reporting in April that Juventus goalkeeper Di Gregorio is on the north London club’s radar.

Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi is reported to be personally keen on working with Di Gregorio, with the Italian tactician said to be ‘a great admirer’ of his compatriot.

TuttoSport added that Di Gregorio does not fancy swapping Juventus for Tottenham.

Tottenham also first need to make sure that they do not get relegated from the Premier League.

Spurs’ chances of signing Di Gregorio have been further decimated, with Liverpool now actively pursuing a deal for the 28-year-old.

Graeme Bailey reported in April that a potential swap deal involving Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson and Di Gregorio could happen.

Juventus are keen on a deal for Alisson Becker and have already made him an offer, and Liverpool’s interest in Di Gregorio could pave the way for an exchange deal.

Alisson is one of the best players in the current Liverpool squad and is the most expensive Brazilian goalkeeper of all time.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Liverpool are among the clubs who have ‘enquired’ about Di Gregorio.

The Italian publication has reported: ‘Juventus is set to undergo a change in goal, and the prime candidate for the future is Alisson Becker, who is leaving Liverpool.

‘Making his way is Michele Di Gregorio, who hasn’t fully convinced the club’s management over the past two years.

‘His destination is still unclear, but several Premier League clubs have enquired about him in the past, including Liverpool themselves.’

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Emiliano Martinez is Liverpool’s top goalkeeper target – sources

While Liverpool are interested in Di Gregorio, sources have told us that Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is the Reds’ top goalkeeper target.

Our transfer insider, Graeme Bailey, reported on May 11 that Liverpool ‘highly admire Martinez, who could leave Villa this summer.

The Argentina international goalkeeper came close to leaving Villa for Manchester United last summer, and there is a chance that he could be on the move at the end of the season.

Liverpool still have faith in Giorgi Mamardashvili, but the Reds are looking for a more experienced goalkeeper who could be able to step up immediately should Alisson leave.

Bailey reported regarding Martinez: “The 33-year-old’s leadership, mentality and experience at the highest level are all qualities Liverpool appreciate, particularly given his performances for both Aston Villa and Argentina in recent years.

“Martinez’s reputation as a commanding personality and elite shot-stopper is also considered attractive by those involved in Liverpool’s recruitment process.”

Joao Palhinha has been informed there is still a place for him at Tottenham Hotspur next season, but TEAMtalk can reveal his long-term future in North London remains far from certain, despite Roberto De Zerbi being a big admirer of his.

The Portugal international only joined Spurs from Bayern Munich last summer on a loan deal which includes an already agreed-upon £27million option to buy, and he initially made an encouraging start under former head coach Thomas Frank.

However, much like Tottenham’s campaign as a whole, Palhinha’s form fluctuated throughout the season, and questions emerged at various stages over where he truly fitted within the club’s evolving midfield structure.

Despite that inconsistency, the 30-year-old has managed to re-establish himself under De Zerbi.

TEAMtalk understands De Zerbi is a huge admirer of Palhinha’s experience, tactical discipline and leadership qualities and has made it clear internally that he would like the midfielder to remain at the club.

Sources state Palhinha himself has once again enjoyed life back in London after previously impressing in the Premier League during his time at Fulham. However, there remains a growing possibility that the midfielder could now consider a return to his homeland.

However, TEAMtalk can reveal Sporting CP are extremely interested in bringing Palhinha back to the Jose Alvalade Stadium, resulting in further uncertainty surrounding his future.

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Portugal giants on alert amid Tottenham star’s uncertainty

The Lisbon giants view Palhinha as an ideal figure to strengthen their experience and leadership in the centre of the park while also reconnecting the club with one of their most respected academy products.

But Sporting are not alone, as we can confirm that both Benfica and Porto are also monitoring Palhinha’s situation closely ahead of the summer transfer window.

All three Portuguese giants are aware the player could become available under the right circumstances and would welcome the opportunity to bring him back to Liga Portugal.

Meanwhile, Bayern Munich have effectively closed the door on any potential return to Bavaria. Sources indicate the Bundesliga champions have made it clear they no longer envisage Palhinha having a future at the club following his departure last year.

TEAMtalk understands the midfielder has accepted that situation and is now fully focused on deciding the next stage of his career.

While Tottenham have informed Palhinha that there remains an opportunity for him to stay and play an important role under De Zerbi, no final decision has yet been made regarding his future.

The midfielder is expected to assess all options carefully over the coming weeks, particularly with interest from Portugal intensifying.

For now, Palhinha remains committed to Spurs, but with De Zerbi keen to keep him and several major Portuguese clubs pushing hard, his future is shaping up to be one of Tottenham’s more intriguing situations this summer.

Meanwhile, Spurs’ quest to remain in the Premier League has been backed by Jamie Carragher, who has named the star he feels is paramount to their chances of staying in 17th and above the relegation trapdoor.

Joao Palhinha could reportedly snub the chance to complete a permanent switch to Tottenham Hotspur this summer in favour of a return to his homeland with Sporting instead.

The Portugal international, who is currently on loan from Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich, has an option to buy for Spurs at around the £25million mark.

And, despite Palhinha having an inconsistent campaign at Tottenham, one which started and is ending well, Roberto De Zerbi is reported to be a big fan of the player and is keen for the club to retain his services on a permanent basis.

Regardless of what happens with Spurs, the 30-year-old will be sold by Bayern this summer, a decision that has opened the door to other potential suitors too.

Having begun the season as a pivotal figure in Thomas Frank’s engine room, Palhinha lost his way midway through the campaign and then came in for criticism from fans during Igor Tudor’s disastrous reign as interim boss.

He has, however, re-emerged as a key performer in De Zerbi’s side and was outstanding in the recent win at Aston Villa that saw Tottenham climb out of the relegation zone.

And while De Zerbi has made his stance clear on the player’s future in north London, it appears that Palhinha may have ideas of his own.

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Palhinha considering Portugal return

Indeed, a report from Football Insider claims that the former Fulham man may favour a return to Portugal this summer for personal reasons.

It’s previously been reported that Spurs could actually try and negotiate a figure lower than their option to buy on Palhinha, especially with the player out of contract in 2028.

And while there is every chance that Bayern will be receptive to that plan, the fact that other clubs, like Sporting, could also get involved as presented the idea of a potential bidding war brewing.

Ultimately, though, it will come down to the player’s decision, in what could come as a blow to both De Zerbi and Tottenham.

Palhinha is due back in action for Spurs when they head to bogey club Chelsea in the Premier League on May 19, knowing that a rare Stamford Bridge win will put them on the brink of survival.

TEAMtalk understands that West Ham United captain Jarrod Bowen could remain with the Hammers even if they suffer relegation from the Premier League, despite growing interest in the England international from a host of rivals, including Tottenham Hotspur and Everton.

Nobody is more committed to the West Ham cause than Bowen, who has once again emerged as the club’s standout performer during a difficult campaign in East London.

The 29-year-old has delivered 10 goals and 11 assists in all competitions this season, underlining why he remains firmly in contention for a place in the England squad under Thomas Tuchel for the 2026 World Cup.

Sources have informed TEAMtalk that Bowen is extremely settled in London and loves life in the capital, meaning he is in no rush to push for an exit regardless of how West Ham’s season ends.

That stance has not stopped interest building in one of the Premier League’s most consistent attacking players.

TEAMtalk understands that Tottenham remain admirers of Bowen after enquiring about his situation in each of the last two summer windows. Spurs are continuing to monitor developments closely as they look to strengthen their attacking options and they could also offer the player and his family the chance to remain in the capital.

However, Tottenham are far from alone in tracking the winger.

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Tottenham among SIX Prem clubs keen on Bowen

Liverpool, Manchester United, Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Everton are all understood to be keeping a close watch on Bowen’s future ahead of the summer transfer window.

Everton’s interest is particularly notable given manager David Moyes remains a huge admirer of Bowen following their successful spell together at West Ham.

Moyes was instrumental in helping Bowen develop into one of the Premier League’s most dangerous wide forwards during his time at the London Stadium.

Everton are looking to add to their wide options this summer. They are confident of retaining Manchester City loanee Jack Grealish, but Moyes still wants more competition.

Tyler Dibling has struggled to make his mark since joining the Toffees last summer, while it remains to be seen whether the Merseysiders will trigger their option to sign Chelsea loanee Tyrique George permanently.

For now, Bowen remains focused on the remainder of the season with West Ham.

The Hammers sit third-bottom of the table as things stand, two points away from safety, with two more matches against Newcastle (away) and Leeds (home) to come.