Last Word On Sports

Tottenham Hotspur captain Cristian Romero is attracting serious interest from Atletico Madrid, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that the Spanish giants are preparing an offer for the Argentine defender. The team’s “next sales” will allow them to unlock a move for the Lilywhites’ skipper.

Romano previously revealed that Serie A side Inter Milan are also pursuing Romero, with the 28-year-old expected to leave north London this summer after five years at the club.

According to the latest report, Atletico manager Diego Simeone has identified Romero as a priority target, with the La Liga side preparing a bid as they look to reshape their defence following the potential departures of Nahuel Molina and Matteo Ruggeri.

Although the Argentine signed a new Tottenham contract until 2029 last summer, a move away now appears increasingly likely.

Atletico Madrid Preparing Bid for Tottenham Captain Cristian Romero

Time at Spurs

The defender joined Tottenham from Atalanta in the summer of 2021 during Nuno Espirito Santo’s brief spell in charge and has gone on to make 156 appearances for the club, scoring 13 goals.

The Argentine played a key role in Tottenham’s UEFA Europa League triumph in 2025, captaining the side to victory over Manchester United in the final before being permanently handed the armband by Thomas Frank following Son Heung-min’s departure.

He made 32 appearances across all competitions during the 2025/26 campaign, scoring six goals to finish as Spurs’ third-highest scorer.

However, his time in north London has also been disrupted by injuries and suspensions. His aggressive style makes him popular among supporters, but has also seen him receive six red cards during his Tottenham career.

His final campaign was cut short after suffering an injury away at Sunderland in Roberto De Zerbi’s first match in charge, limiting him to just 70 minutes under the Italian.

Internationally, Romero has earned 58 caps for Argentina, winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup before helping his country reach another final in 2026, where he was forced off through injury.

Transfer Battle Developing

Romano first reported in July that Romero was expected to leave Tottenham this summer, with Inter initially leading the race for his signature. His latest update states that the Italian club have assembled a package worth around £34 million but are yet to reach an agreement on personal terms with the defender.

Whether that valuation will be enough to convince Tottenham remains to be seen, particularly given Romero’s status as club captain and one of the Premier League’s most established central defenders. The Argentine is currently enjoying a post-World Cup break following Argentina’s run to the final and has yet to return to Hotspur Way for pre-season.

Spurs Preparing for Life Without Romero

Tottenham have already moved to strengthen the heart of their defence this summer, bringing in Jan Paul van Hecke and Marcos Senesi to join Micky van de Ven, Kevin Danso and Ben Davies among De Zerbi’s centre-back options.

Read More: Where Luka Vušković’s £50 Million Transfer Ranks Among Tottenham’s Biggest Sales

Those additions suggest the team have been preparing for the possibility of Romero’s departure, and attention would then turn to who succeeds the Argentine as captain ahead of the opening Premier League fixture against Brentford.

With Atletico Madrid now joining Inter Milan and Barcelona in the race, Romero’s future looks set to become one of Tottenham’s biggest transfer stories during the remainder of the window.

Featured Image Credit

IMAGO / Gonzales Photo

Tottenham Hotspur are stepping up their pursuit of Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Netherlands international has emerged as one of Roberto De Zerbi’s primary attacking targets as Spurs continue their summer rebuild after already completing six signings.

Romano reports that Gakpo is being considered alongside Manchester City winger Savinho, with Tottenham continuing negotiations over a potential move for the Brazilian.

The 27-year-old remains under contract at Liverpool until 2030, meaning Spurs would likely need to pay a substantial fee should they wish to tempt the Reds into a sale.

Dutch International Among Tottenham Targets

Gakpo’s Career So Far

Since arriving from PSV Eindhoven in January 2023, Gakpo has become an important player for Liverpool, making 180 appearances and scoring 50 goals across all competitions.

The Dutch forward is reportedly on £165,000 per week at Anfield, and has established himself as one of Europe’s brightest attacking talents during his time at PSV, progressing through the club’s academy before registering 105 goal contributions in 159 senior appearances.

Internationally, Gakpo has earned 54 caps for the Netherlands, scoring 24 goals since making his debut in 2021.

Read More: Latest Tottenham Transfer News: A Summer of Change Continues

His performances at the 2022 FIFA World Cup first propelled him onto the global stage after scoring three goals in Qatar, before adding another three goals during the 2026 tournament.

With extensive Premier League and UEFA Champions League experience, plus a Premier League title already on his CV, it is easy to see why Tottenham view Gakpo as an attractive option.

Why Spurs Want Another Forward

Despite strengthening both defence and midfield this summer, Tottenham’s attack remains an area De Zerbi is keen to improve.

Wilson Odobert and Xavi Simons are expected to miss much of next season through injury, while Mohammed Kudus and Dejan Kulusevski continue to manage fitness issues heading into the new campaign.

Spurs have also lost Randal Kolo Muani following the end of his loan spell, while Richarlison, Dominic Solanke and Mathys Tel combined for just 22 goals across all competitions last season.

Read More: Tottenham Reject £38 Million Offer for Midfield Star

Gakpo’s versatility is likely to be another attraction for Spurs. Comfortable operating from the left wing or through the middle, he would provide De Zerbi with greater flexibility while also adding proven Premier League quality to his side.

The Dutchman has scored 16, 18 and nine goals across his three full seasons at Liverpool, with Gakpo possessing the consistent attacking output Spurs are looking to add.

Liverpool Stance Could Complicate Deal

While Tottenham’s interest appears genuine, completing a deal may prove difficult.

According to Lyall Thomas and Vinny O’Connor at Sky Sports, Liverpool are reluctant to sanction Gakpo’s departure unless they first secure a replacement, while Romano also states that the Dutch international is not currently considered part of the club’s exit plans.

Read More: Where Luka Vuškovićs £50 Million Transfer Ranks Among Tottenham’s Biggest Sales

The Reds have been linked with Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, whose arrival could potentially alter Liverpool’s position later in the window.

Tottenham’s Summer Business Continues

Tottenham have shown throughout this summer that they are prepared to move quickly when key targets become available.

The club have already broken their transfer record twice to sign Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali, proving their willingness to back De Zerbi during his first transfer window.

With Savinho also remaining a target, Spurs are clearly prioritising further attacking reinforcements before the new Premier League season begins.

Whether Gakpo ultimately becomes available remains uncertain, but Romano’s latest update suggests the Liverpool forward is firmly on Tottenham’s shortlist as the club continue their summer rebuild.

Featured Image Credit:

IMAGO / Sebastian Frej

The North London club will be eager to improve on last season’s terrible form. So far this summer, they have made significant moves in this window, with Sandro Tonali, Mateus Fernandes, Jan Paul van Hecke, and Marcos Senesi.

De Zerbi still has some big decisions to make regarding incomings and outgoings before the season opener against Brentford. One of the decisions De Zerbi had to make was who’d be his first-choice goalkeeper.

Roberto De Zerbi Confirms to Antonin Kinsky

Kinsky had a nightmare game in the Champions League last season against Atletico Madrid under previous manager Igor Tudor. However, De Zerbi made it clear that the 23-year-old Czech goalkeeper would be his number one as Vicario informed them he wanted to leave. The Czech keeper subsequently signed a new deal at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

“It made me happy to hear that. He was clear with me, which made it very easy for me to make the decision [to stay],” said the young Czech to Gold.

De Zerbi also spoke on the young Czech goalkeeper: “I think he can improve in the build-up a lot, but he will reach, for sure, the top.”

“With the goalkeeper coach and me, we will create the training just for him to better understand the free player and everything he needs.

“He is very clear with the pass, but he can become faster in the decision in build up. He has all qualities to become one of the best,” added De Zerbi.

This is the Chelsea confirmed lineup for their second public pre-season outing of the campaign as they remain in Australia. The Blues take on fellow Premier League outfit Tottenham Hotspur who have been playing mostly young prospects so far. With some of the squad still unavailable due to World Cup breaks, Xabi Alonso brought with him a bit of a Frankenstein unit that has star names like Cole Palmer alongside unproven names from the academy like Reggie Watson. While this is going to be far from the finished article, the continued use of a 4-2-3-1 and a build-up style can provide some hints at how the manager will take his team into the league term.

Read More: Chelsea to Welcome Back Player ‘Like a New Signing’ For Pre-Season

Chelsea Confirmed Lineup vs Tottenham Hotspur in Australia

Chelsea Travelling Squad

The available names are:

Robert Sánchez

Ted Curd

Teddy Sharman-Lowe

Josh Acheampong

Tosin Adarabioyo

Aarón Anselmino

Levi Colwill

Wesley Fofana

Jorrel Hato

Marco Palestra

Mamadou Sarr

Tayo Suboloye

Calvin Diakite

Landon Emenalo

Dário Essugo

Roméo Lavia

Madhi Nicoll-Jazuli

Reggie Walsh

Reggie Watson

Liam Delap

Jamie Gittens

Ryan Kavuma-McQueen

Omari Kellyman

Cole Palmer

João Pedro

Dastan Satpaev

Estêvão

Read More: Two New Chelsea Signings Suffer Injuries Early in Pre-Season

Chelsea Confirmed Lineup

Teddy Sharman-Lowe

Marco Palestra

Wes Fofana

Levi Colwill

Jorrel Hato

Dario Essugo

Romeo Lavia

Estevao

Cole Palmer

Jamie Gittens

Joao Pedro

Ones to Watch

Getting to see Romeo Lavia is always a treat, the midfielder has much to prove after an injury ravaged time with the London side but he could impress here and show his new manager he’s worth factoring in to the plans.

This is the Chelsea confirmed Lineup for their pre-season tie with Tottenham. We will be following along with all of the Blues’ tour of Australia and Asia as they gear up for the Premier League campaign ready to resurge after a dismal mid-table finish last term.

Featured Image Credit

IMAGO / Focus Images

Pre-Season friendlies roll on as the Blues get ready for their second public outing of the Xabi Alonso era. This Chelsea predicted lineup will try to predict the eleven that takes to the field after the Western Sydney Wanderers clash which ended 6-4 with a large chunk of minutes going to academy players. Tottenham Hotspur will provide a tougher opponent but they too are rocking up with young players throughout the squad. While the names on the marquee might be big Premier League brands, the names on the pitch might be more pub quiz answers for the first half or so of the game.

Read More: Xabi Alonso Tactics Analysis in Chelsea Debut

Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs Tottenham Hotspur for Pre-Season Friendly

Travelling Squad

The club announced the official list of players who are on the tour, in goal the options are Rob Sanchez, Ted Curd, and Teddy Sharman-Lowe. Filip Jorgensen travelled initially with the team but was absent against Western Sydney Wanderers and won’t rejoin the squad.

Defensive options in the middle are Josh Acheampong, Levi Colwill, Mamadou Sarr, Aaron Anselmino, Wes Fofana, Tayo Subuloye, and if needed Calvin Diakite or Jorrel Hato. New signing Marco Palestra is a right-back with Acheampong a possible replacement. At left-back, the team has Hato, Landon Emenalo, and Diakite as potential starters.

Read More: Ryan Kavuma-McQueen Scouting Report

In midfield, likely as a pivot the names brought are Reggie Walsh, Reggie Watson, Madhi Nicoll-Jazuli, Romeo Lavia, and Dario Essugo. Lavia was unable to play in the first friendly and was left out for Essugo, Walsh, and Watson getting a number of minutes, whether he features against the Lilywhites will be a late move.

There is a bounty of attackers with striking options Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, and Dastan Satpayev being supported by Jamie Gittens, Ryan Kavuma-McQueen, Omari Kellyman, Cole Palmer, and Estevao. Satpayev played as a wider attacker in the pre-season opener, operating off the left for some added variety to the attack.

How Chelsea Started Against WSW

It was a mostly academy lineup in the Sydney Cup as Sharman-Lowe started in goal with Tosin Adarabioyo leading a back line with Josh Acheampong, Tayo Suboloye and Landon Emenalo. Reggie Walsh, Dario Essugo and Reggie Watson made up the central midfielders with one at the ten ahead of a pivot. Dastan Satpayev was on the left with Ryan Kavuma-McQueen on the right and Liam Delap up front. The tactical setup was a 4-2-3-1 with some similarities to Enzo Maresca’s ideology with minor tweaks.

Read More: Projected Chelsea Squad for 26/27 as of July 30

The match finished with the regular starters coming on for the last half hour or so which could indicate the eleven who’ll take the field from the off against Tottenham, to rotate people in and out to aid match fitness.

Chelsea Predicted Lineup vs Tottenham Hotspur

GK – Rob Sanchez

LB – Aaron Anselmino

CB – Wes Fofana

CB – Levi Colwill

RB – Marco Palestra

DM – Dario Essugo

DM – Mahdi Nicoll-Jazzuli

LW – Jamie Gittens

CAM – Cole Palmer

RW – Estevao

ST – Joao Pedro

Featured Image Credit

IMAGO / Colorsport

Italian giants Inter Milan are weighing up moves for Tottenham Hotspur defenders Cristian Romero and Djed Spence, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Both players are under consideration as the Serie A club look to strengthen their defensive options ahead of Christian Chivu’s second season in charge.

The update comes during another busy summer for Spurs, with Roberto De Zerbi already overseeing significant changes to his back line following the arrivals of Jan Paul van Hecke, Marcos Senesi and Andy Robertson.

Romero has long been expected to attract interest from across Europe, while Spence’s versatility and impressive form over the last two seasons has also put him on the radar of several clubs.

Tottenham Hotspur Defenders Attracting Inter Interest

Romero’s Future Remains Uncertain

Romero appears increasingly likely to leave Tottenham this summer after four seasons in north London.

The Argentine international has made 156 appearances for Spurs since joining from Atalanta, establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s standout central defenders before being named club captain ahead of the 2025/26 season.

According to Romano, Inter have discussed a potential move for the 28-year-old, although the financial package required is currently considered very high.

Barcelona also remain admirers of Romero, with several European clubs monitoring his situation ahead of the final weeks of the transfer window. Any formal movement is expected after the conclusion of the FIFA World Cup.

Despite the departures of Luka Vušković and Radu Drăgușin this summer, Tottenham are not under immediate pressure to sell following the arrivals of Van Hecke and Senesi, alongside the existing options of Micky van de Ven and Kevin Danso.

Romero still has three years remaining on the contract he signed last summer.

Spence Also on Inter’s Radar

Romano also reports that Inter remain in discussions over a move for Spence, who has emerged as the Italian club’s preferred option at right wing-back.

Inter’s interest follows the collapse of their pursuit of Union SG’s Anan Khalaili, although Spurs’ valuation is believed to be higher than the Serie A side initially anticipated. The player is understood to be open to the move.

Spence has rebuilt his Tottenham career impressively after initially struggling for opportunities following his arrival in 2022. After loan spells away from north London, he established himself under Ange Postecoglou before continuing to feature regularly during the 2025/26 campaign.

Across 85 appearances for Spurs, the England international has demonstrated his versatility by operating at both full-back positions and in more advanced wide roles when required.

The Athletic recently reported Everton’s interest in the 25-year-old, although no formal offer has materialised.

With Pedro Porro, Andy Robertson and Destiny Udogie all competing for defensive places under De Zerbi, Spence could find opportunities more limited next season, particularly with Spurs having no European football.

Tottenham Hotspur Defensive Reshuffle Continues

Tottenham have already overseen significant changes in defence this summer, bringing in Robertson, Senesi and Van Hecke while allowing both Vušković and Drăgușin to depart.

Further movement cannot be ruled out before the transfer window closes, with Romero’s future still uncertain and Spence continuing to attract interest from both England and abroad.

Whether either player ultimately leaves remains to be seen, but Inter’s interest outlines the growing demand for two defenders who have played important roles for Spurs over recent seasons.

Featured Image Credit:

IMAGO / Action Plus

Everton are interested in Tottenham Hotspur full-back Djed Spence as they assess options to strengthen the right side of their defence this summer, according to Jay Harris and Patrick Boyland of The Athletic.

The versatile 25-year-old is currently representing England at the FIFA World Cup and has become an important member of Tottenham’s squad across the past two seasons, but could now be attracting serious interest from Merseyside.

Spence has three years remaining on his current contract, with the club holding the option of a further year, meaning any potential move is likely to require a substantial transfer fee.

Everton Eye Move for Tottenham Hotspur Defender

Djed Spence’s Time at Tottenham Hotspur

Spence joined Tottenham from Nottingham Forest in 2022 in a deal worth around £20 million but struggled for opportunities under Antonio Conte, making just six appearances during his first season in north London.

Loan spells followed with Rennes, Leeds United and Genoa, with the Italian side coming close to signing him permanently for around £8.5 million in the summer of 2024 before a deal failed to materialise.

The defender eventually established himself as a first-team regular under Ange Postecoglou during the 2024/25 campaign and has since become one of Tottenham’s most dependable defensive options, capable of playing on either flank.

Spence has now made 85 appearances for Spurs, scoring twice, while featuring 44 times during the 2025/26 season under Thomas Frank, Igor Tudor and Roberto De Zerbi. He appeared in six of De Zerbi’s seven matches in charge, making two starts and four substitute appearances.

His versatility and consistency have also earned him recognition at international level, with the defender winning 11 England caps under Thomas Tuchel and currently representing his country at the FIFA World Cup.

Read More: Tottenham Defender Set for Departure After Deal Agreed

Everton Interest

David Moyes is keen to strengthen his defensive options after Everton finished 13th in the Premier League last season.

Jake O’Brien has been the club’s preferred right-back over the past two campaigns, ahead of Nathan Patterson, who made just eight first-team appearances during 2025/26.

James Garner has also filled the role when required, but The Athletic reports Everton are now actively exploring the market.

Spence is among the names under consideration, alongside Arsenal defender Ben White and Strasbourg full-back Guéla Doué, although the latter is reportedly expected to command a significant transfer fee.

The Tottenham defender’s ability to operate comfortably on either side of the defence would also provide cover for Everton’s left-back options, Vitaliy Mykolenko and Adam Aznou, making him an attractive target for Moyes.

Read More: Why Tottenham Signed Andy Robertson on a Free Transfer

Would Tottenham Consider a Sale?

Whether Tottenham are prepared to sanction a deal remains unclear, with Spence currently focused on England’s FIFA World Cup campaign ahead of the quarter-final against Norway.

Spurs have already strengthened defensively this summer through the arrivals of Andy Robertson, Marcos Senesi and Jan Paul van Hecke, increasing competition across the back line.

On the left, De Zerbi can call upon Robertson, Destiny Udogie, Souza and Ben Davies, while Pedro Porro recently committed his future to the club by signing a new long-term contract on the opposite flank.

Archie Gray is also capable of filling in at right-back, while Tottenham will have fewer fixtures to navigate next season without European football, meaning opportunities for those on the periphery of the squad may be limited.

Even so, Spence remains one of the squad’s most reliable defensive options. He has missed just 12 matches through injury across the past two seasons and has repeatedly come to the aid of his team on both sides of the pitch.

For that reason, it will be interesting to see whether Tottenham are prepared to entertain any approach from Everton despite the increased competition for places.

Tottenham transfer news: Defender Radu Drăgușin is set to return to Serie A after Fiorentina agreed a deal to sign the Romanian international, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The move will initially be a season-long loan with an obligation to buy, with Spurs receiving an initial package worth around £16.5 million covering the loan fee, the future purchase obligation and the defender’s wages through to June.

Although the 24-year-old still has four years remaining on his Tottenham contract, Romano reports that the club have granted his request to leave north London this summer.

Tottenham Transfer News: Fiorentina Agree Deal for Defender

Drăgușin’s Time at Spurs

The Romanian international joined Tottenham from Serie A side Genoa in January 2024 for a fee believed to be in the region of £25 million and has since made 48 appearances during his two-and-a-half-year spell in north London.

Drăgușin largely operated as deputy to first-choice pairing Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero, regularly stepping into the side when injuries disrupted Tottenham’s defence.

He was also part of the squad that lifted the UEFA Europa League in 2025, making seven appearances during the competition before injury curtailed his involvement.

That setback came in January 2025 when the centre-back suffered a serious ACL injury, ruling him out until December. He returned to feature 11 times during the 2025/26 campaign, although only six of those appearances came as a starter.

Read More: Spurs Reject Newcastle’s Bid for Midfielder

A Return to Familiar Surroundings

A move back to Italy represents a return to familiar territory for Drăgușin. The defender came through Juventus’ academy before making four senior appearances for the club and enjoying loan spells with Sampdoria and Salernitana during the 2021/22 season.

He later moved to Genoa, making 62 appearances and scoring six goals across a season and a half, attracting interest from several of Europe’s biggest clubs before Tottenham beat Bayern Munich to his signature in 2024.

Now, Romano reports the Romanian is set to return to Serie A with Fiorentina, where he will reunite with former Tottenham sporting director Fabio Paratici.

According to Alasdair Gold, the obligation to buy will become active if Drăgușin reaches a specified appearance threshold, taking the total fee to around £21.4 million, while Tottenham will also retain a 10% sell-on clause on any future profit Fiorentina make from his sale.

Read More: Portuguese Midfielder Leaves Spurs as Cult Hero

Tottenham Transfer News: Defensive Reshuffle Continues

Drăgușin’s departure comes during a significant overhaul of Tottenham’s defence under Roberto De Zerbi.

Spurs have already strengthened at the back with the arrivals of Andy Robertson, Marcos Senesi and Jan Paul van Hecke, while the Romanian managed just two minutes of football under De Zerbi, both coming as stoppage-time substitute appearances.

With Romero, van de Ven, van Hecke, Senesi and Kevin Danso all ahead of him in the current pecking order, opportunities for the 24-year-old next season would likely be limited.

Tottenham have also agreed a deal for Luka Vušković to join Brighton & Hove Albion, according to Romano, as the club continue to alter their defensive options ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

Drăgușin’s exit therefore acts as another significant piece of Tottenham’s summer rebuild, with further departures expected before the transfer window closes.

Featured Image Credit:

IMAGO / Depositphotos

Joao Palhinha has left Tottenham Hotspur following the conclusion of his loan spell in 2025/26, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that the Portuguese international will not remain at the club next season.

Despite becoming a key figure in midfield during a turbulent campaign, Roberto De Zerbi has opted against making the move permanent as Spurs continue a major squad rebuild heading into 2026/27.

The decision comes during a busy summer at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with Mateus Fernandes arriving from West Ham United and a £100 million deal agreed for Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali as the club reshape their midfield options.

Palhinha departs, however, having left a lasting impression on supporters and established himself as a cult hero in north London.

Joao Palhinha Leaves North London

Joao Palhinha’s Tottenham Loan Spell

Joao Palhinha signed on loan from German giants Bayern Munich in the summer of 2025 and went on to make 45 appearances for Spurs across four competitions, including the UEFA Champions League.

The 30-year-old defensive midfielder became a key member of the squad and featured regularly under all three Spurs managers in 2025/26: Thomas Frank, Igor Tudor and De Zerbi.

His combative style at the base of midfield quickly won over the Spurs faithful, bringing much-needed grit and physicality to the centre of the pitch, while also offering a surprising threat in attacking areas throughout the campaign.

The Portuguese midfielder scored seven goals and added three assists, finishing as Spurs’ joint second-highest goalscorer, level with Micky van de Ven and behind Richarlison.

Defining Goals in a Tottenham Shirt

Palhinha was a major contributor in front of goal during the 2025/26 season, producing a series of memorable strikes across his loan spell in north London.

His first goal for the club came in August, when he struck in a 2-0 win away to Manchester City, and he followed that with a spectacular overhead kick against Doncaster Rovers in the Carabao Cup.

The 30-year-old then rescued Spurs in September, scoring a stoppage-time equaliser at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers to secure a vital point that would prove significant later in the campaign.

Palhinha produced another acrobatic finish in January with a stunning strike away to AFC Bournemouth, although it came in a 3-2 defeat.

However, his most decisive contributions came under De Zerbi. In late April, he slid home Richarlison’s cross away to Wolves to secure Spurs’ first Premier League win of 2026 and De Zerbi’s first victory as Tottenham manager.

His final and most important act in a Spurs shirt came on the final day of the season, when he scored the only goal in a 1-0 win over Everton to ensure Premier League survival and once again spare Tottenham’s blushes.

A Heartfelt Farewell

Joao Palhinha took to Instagram to confirm his departure from the club and issue a message to Spurs fans:

“Dear COYS,

I am writing this message with heartfelt gratitude for all the kindness and support you have always shown me throughout my time at this special club.

Representing Tottenham has had a profound impact on my life, not only professionally but also personally, and it is something I will carry with me forever.

I always tried to repay, in the best way I could, all the affection, respect and trust you showed me, both on and off the pitch.

As I have said before, what truly defines a great institution and a great football club is its supporters. Players, managers and directors come and go, but the fans remain. You are the ones who keep the flame of this club burning, season after season.

I could not leave without expressing my special thanks to my teammates, the club’s directors, the fitness coaches, the entire medical staff and especially my dear Alessandra Massimi.

London gave me more than a professional career, it gave me two homes that I will always carry in my heart.

With the utmost respect and gratitude, I say goodbye to all of you.

Thank you so much COYS.”

Joao Palhinha: A Cult Hero in North London

Palhinha’s departure from Spurs is unsurprising given the investment in a new-look midfield and, with no European football next season, opportunities for fringe players will be limited.

However, without his contributions, Spurs could have been facing the prospect of Championship football in 2026/27, a scenario unthinkable for a club of Tottenham’s size and history.

The midfielder will always be welcomed back to north London, having established himself as a cult hero among supporters at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

With Spurs and De Zerbi looking to move on from last season’s relegation near miss and new midfield reinforcements arriving, it appears the right decision for all parties for his spell at the club to come to an end, with Palhinha departing after making a significant impact during his time at Tottenham.

Featured image Credit:

IMAGO / Sebastian Frej

This afternoon saw Spurs reject Newcastle’s bid for midfielder Archie Gray, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Romano reports that Spurs quickly made their position clear following Newcastle’s enquiry, with the proposal not entertained despite interest from Eddie Howe’s side.

The approach is particularly notable given Tottenham’s ongoing pursuit of Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, with Spurs already seeing an offer of their own rejected for the Italian international earlier this summer.

Gray joined Tottenham from Leeds United in the summer of 2024 and still has four years remaining on his current contract.

Tottenham Transfer News: Spurs Reject Newcastle’s Bid for Midfielder

Gray’s Spurs Career So Far

The England U21 international arrived from Leeds United in a deal worth around £30 million, with Joe Rodon moving in the opposite direction, in 2024.

Since arriving in north London, Gray has made 81 appearances across all competitions, scoring twice while establishing himself as one of the club’s most dependable players.

During his first season, the midfielder featured 46 times despite being only 18 years old, regularly filling in across the back line as Tottenham battled with a defensive injury crisis before also impressing in his preferred holding midfield role.

He followed that with another 35 appearances during 2025/26, including eight outings in the UEFA Champions League and 24 in the Premier League.

Although his opportunities have been more limited since Roberto De Zerbi’s arrival, with just 103 minutes under the Italian so far, Tottenham’s swift rejection of Newcastle’s approach strongly suggests Gray remains an important part of the club’s long-term plans.

Spurs Reject Newcastle’s Bid: Why Magpies Want Gray

Newcastle are expected to strengthen their squad following a disappointing 12th-place Premier League finish that saw them miss out on European qualification.

The Magpies are also facing uncertainty over several key players in the middle of the park. Tottenham continue to pursue Tonali, while David Ornstein has reported that Arsenal have made an approach for club captain Bruno Guimarães.

Should Newcastle lose one, or even both, of those influential midfielders, Howe would be left with Joelinton, Lewis Miley, Jacob Ramsey and Joe Willock as his senior midfield options.

Joe White is the only other midfielder with first-team experience, but the 23-year-old has made just four senior appearances for Newcastle and is naturally a more attacking player.

Gray’s versatility, therefore, makes him an attractive target. Naturally a defensive midfielder, he is also capable of operating at right-back and across the defensive line, a versatility he demonstrated throughout Tottenham’s injury-hit 2024/25 campaign.

That flexibility could also help Newcastle replace Kieran Trippier, who departed the club to join Wolverhampton Wanderers earlier this summer, by providing another option at right-back alongside his midfield qualities.

Spurs Reject Newcastle’s Bid: Tottenham’s Midfield Continues to Evolve

Midfield remains one of Tottenham’s busiest areas this summer as De Zerbi reshapes his squad ahead of the new campaign.

Yves Bissouma has already departed following the expiry of his contract, while João Palhinha has returned to Bayern Munich after his loan spell.

Lucas Bergvall has also been linked with a potential exit after Ornstein reported that the Sweden international had informed Tottenham of his desire to leave.

However, John Percy states the club have no intention of selling the midfielder, with De Zerbi and sporting director Johan Lange both holding talks to reassure him over his long-term future in north London.

Spurs are also closing in on midfield reinforcements, with Mateus Fernandes expected to complete a club-record £85 million move from West Ham United in the coming days, while interest in Tonali remains despite Newcastle rejecting Tottenham’s opening offer.

Given those changes, interest in Gray is understandable. However, today saw Spurs reject Newcastle’s bid without entertaining negotiations sends a clear message that the England youngster is viewed as a central figure in De Zerbi’s long-term project.

Featured image courtesy of IMAGO / Every Second Media