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Pedro Porro strengthens case for Tottenham promotion after World Cup heroics

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Pedro Porro has become undroppable for Tottenham Hotspur.

The Spaniard proved crucial at the back end of last season under Roberto De Zerbi, as Spurs avoided relegation.

Now, he has been mentioned by fans as a potential captain, with a Cristian Romero departure likely this summer.

Porro joined in 2023, before he became one of the Premier League's best full-backs under Ange Postecoglou.

Tottenham are looking to climb back up the standings under new boss De Zerbi, after successive 17th-place finishes.

And based on his showings for Spain, Porro is going to be absolutely pivotal to this.

Pedro Porro shines on the big stage again - His performance in numbers

Taking on Belgium for a World Cup semi-final spot, Spain would leave it late to take victory, as Mikel Merino swept home from close range in the 88th minute.

Luis de la Fuente's side did take the lead in the 30th minute through Fabian Ruiz, with Porro playing a huge part, as the Spurs man fired a first-time ball in towards Dani Olmo, before the ball was bundled in by PSG man Ruiz.

It would not go down as his assist, but it was another indication of just what he can do in the final third.

Typical of Spain on the night, Porro would remain comfortable in possession, completing 66 out of 75 passes, with three long balls completed out of six.

At the back end of last season, he acted as an extra midfielder for Spurs, needed due to the creative issues in there.

But in a Spain team blessed with talent in the middle, he was able to operate in a more familiar wide role, where his versatility was on show alongside his supreme ball-playing abilities.

Completing two dribbles and six passes into the final third, he flanked Lamine Yamal expertly, while he did well to prevent Jeremy Doku from making too much of an impact at the other end.

Alongside four defensive contributions, he made four recoveries, earning him a 7/10 in ESPN's player ratings, complimented for his "extremely active" performance.

Tottenham fans all on same page in Pedro Porro captaincy debate Is Pedro Porro the man for important Tottenham question?

After taking the armband from Son Heung-min last summer, defender Romero had a rough season in North London.

With a departure now likely, Spurs are in the same position twelve months down the line.

But, Porro has demonstrated that he is absolutely the right man to be considered.

The perfect link between defence and attack, he is involved in almost everything for club and country - the midfield improvements this summer will loosen the burden on his shoulders.

And, he is a fantastic personality, who is never shy to get involved with the crowd, or take responsibility at a time of need.

For Spain, he has shown his ability in a well-organised outfit, a side deemed as World Cup favourites before a ball was kicked, while Spurs as a side will be looking to develop into this under De Zerbi.

With this in mind, Porro should be the first name on a list of potential captain candidates, and he thoroughly deserves that for his continued development at Tottenham.

Why Tottenham are keen on signing Aston Villa talent Heaven Kilwa

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Tottenham Hotspur have their eyes firmly set on Aston Villa starlet Heaven Kilwa.

Roberto De Zerbi has already enjoyed a host of transfer breakthroughs this summer, as Tottenham aim to start competing at the right end of the Premier League once again.

With Spurs' recruitment so far being largely centred around adding proven stars to their squad, perhaps Lilywhites transfer chiefs are ready to switch gears somewhat.

Tottenham have been putting more of an emphasis on signing high-potential youngsters in recent years, and Kilwa fits that profile.

A 16-year-old winger, he's now seemingly ready to make a move to another top Premier League academy side.

However, if Tottenham want to secure his services, they may have to win a fiercely competitive transfer battle.

Who Tottenham are competing with for Heaven Kilwa

As shared by The Athletic, Kilwa's contract with Aston Villa expired at the beginning of this month.

That has now opened the door for interested parties to get a deal done this summer, and Tottenham are said to be in the chasing pack.

The Talent Hunter claim that Spurs are keen on signing Kilwa, but face competition from Manchester City and Arsenal respectively.

Kilwa looks a serious talent too, with international experience on his CV as well as some highly impressive production at academy level.

Why Ousmane Diabate links show Tottenham have learned from repeat transfer mistake Who is Kilwa and what is his player profile?

Signing for Aston Villa from Coventry City in 2021, Kilwa has been turning heads in Aston Villa's youth ranks for some time now.

As detailed by The Athletic, he was the only player in his age group to reject a scholarship offer to remain with the Villains.

This would suggest he's a teenager not short on confidence in his own abilities, and why wouldn't you be when you delivered 51 goal contributions in the 2025-26 season alone?

Predominantly a left winger, Kilwa can also operate from the right, and even made six appearances in the Under-18 Premier League last term, stepping up to play above his age group.

Kilwa has been capped 11 times by England at Under-16 level, scoring once and providing three assists, whilst also earning a further four Three Lions caps for the Under-15s respectively.

A left-footed player, he's also got pace to burn and is a nightmare for opposition full-backs to keep in check.

So, this is a transfer race that Tottenham should want to win, as Kilwa looks to have all the tools to enjoy a very bright and successful career ahead of him.

Marco Silva wants Joao Palhinha reunion as new Benfica boss eyes reunion with midfielder after Spurs decide against permanent transfer

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Benfica make Palhinha their priority

Benfica have turned their attention to Palhinha after completing the signings of Clement Lenglet and Jakub Kaminski. Silva has identified the Portugal international as his preferred defensive midfielder as he looks to strengthen the heart of his squad, as per A Bola.

Silva and Palhinha worked together at Fulham between 2022 and 2024, with the midfielder establishing himself in the Premier League during that spell. Benfica's hierarchy, including Rui Costa and Mario Branco, are now assessing whether a deal can be completed within the club's financial limits.

Palhinha joined Bayern Munich from Fulham for €50 million in 2024 before spending last season on loan at Tottenham. Spurs have decided not to make the move permanent, leaving Bayern willing to listen to offers as they seek to recover around €20m of their investment.

Benfica assess transfer

The same report suggest Bayern are prepared to sell the midfielder, while Benfica face competition from Juventus and AC Milan. The Portuguese club hope the prospect of returning home can strengthen their position, although Palhinha's salary remains a significant hurdle. Benfica are also considering a loan with an obligation to buy, allowing them to spread the financial cost while remaining within the club's transfer strategy.

Silva wants a specialist holding midfielder

Palhinha is viewed as a key tactical target rather than a sentimental signing. Silva believes the 31-year-old can provide the defensive stability currently missing from Benfica's midfield and create a stronger platform for the team's attacking players. Any move is likely to depend on outgoing transfers. Benfica are expected to make room in the squad and balance their finances before completing another major signing.

Benfica must create room for a deal

Benfica will continue exploring a deal with Bayern while working on player sales to finance the move. A loan with an obligation to buy remains a possible solution if both clubs can agree on the structure. The club are also expected to strengthen other areas of the squad, with Silva believed to want a new winger for squad depth.

The Tottenham players who have paid tribute to Radu Dragusin after confirmed exit

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Tottenham Hotspur have officially announced that Radu Dragusin has joined Fiorentina.

The Lilywhites have announced that the centre-back has joined the Serie A side on a season-long loan.

Fiorentina hold the obligation to make the move, should he meet certain conditions for the Italian outfit this season.

Dragusin will permanently join Fiorentina for around £16million if he makes 22 appearances that are of at least 45 minutes or more.

The Romanian made just 11 appearances for Spurs last season, but did recover from a long-term injury which all but ended his career in N17.

Now, Dragusin can officially call himself a Fiorentina player, as multiple Tottenham stars have reacted to the news of his exit.

Radu Dragusin sends message to Tottenham fans

Dragusin joined Tottenham from Genoa in the winter window of the 2023-24 season and only went on to play 48 games in total.

It wasn't just the last campaign which blighted him with injuries, as it feels like every season he spent with the Lilywhites, he had some form of setback.

Spurs paid a package deal of £25m for the 24-year-old in 2024, and it's safe to say that his transfer has been a let-down, for one reason or another.

Tottenham announced his exit this Wednesday, and Dragusin had some words upon his departure.

The defender wrote: "From the day I arrived at Tottenham, I was proud to wear this badge, and looking back, I'm grateful for all the memories I made at this club.

"During the toughest period of my career, when injury kept me off the pitch, I never felt alone.

"As I take the next step in my career, I do so with nothing but gratitude and respect. Thank you, Spurs."

Dragusin leaves as a Europa League winner, and for that, he will be remembered for at least some good by Tottenham fans, as he seemed a popular figure in the dressing room.

Three winners from Radu Dragusin's exit from Tottenham examined after transfer latest Tottenham player reaction to Dragusin exit

Tottenham have already spent big this summer, with a rough expenditure of £240m, so outgoings were always expected.

The likes of James Maddison, Destiny Udogie, Dane Scarlett, Dominic Solanke, Guglielmo Vicario, Pape Sarr and Micky van de Ven have all liked Dragusin's emotional Instagram post.

Van de Ven, Scarlett, Udogie and Solanke all left white love hearts to resemble Spurs' colour in the comments section, as many players wish him all the best in his return to Italy.

More Spurs players may react in due time.

Roberto De Zerbi has already added Jan Paul van Hecke and Marcos Senesi to his defensive options, and so Dragusin may have found it hard to make a breakthrough next season.

Now attention turns to what's next with van de Ven and Cristian Romero, who face uncertainty at Tottenham.

Tottenham backed to loan deal for 'next Jadon Sancho'

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Mikey Moore could become the "next Jadon Sancho" as Tottenham Hotspur plan to agree a deal with Bourria Dortmund this summer.

The 18-year-old enjoyed a strong loan spell at Rangers last season, and Spurs are now keen to see him tested at a higher level as he continues his development.

After the success of star players like Jadon Sancho who have honed their skills in the Bundesliga, there is a feeling that could be the best destination for the winger.

Former Tottenham scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Moore is very highly regarded in North London, and the club are keen to boost his development.

After a strong first full season in senior football, there is a feeling the teenager is ready for a step up, with a move to the Bundesliga seen as the ideal next step.

Borussia Dortmund are believed to be among the interested clubs, and given their track record of developing young talent, are seen as the perfect destination for Moore.

Could Borussia Dortmund make a move for Mikey Moore?

Football Insider exclusively revealed on 5 July that Dortmund are among three European sides who have expressed an interest in signing Moore on loan this summer.

Fellow Bundesliga outfit FC Koln are also believed to be monitoring the winger, while PSV Eindhoven could provide an opportunity in the Dutch Eredivisie.

Dortmund are seen as the best destination for Moore, however, and Spurs are now hopeful of agreeing a loan move in the near future.

"It seems like Tottenham are going to let Mikey Moore go out on loan again," Brown told Football Insider.

"He had an impressive season at Rangers, where he earned a lot of praise, and is clearly making good progress, but isn't quite ready to make his mark on the Tottenham team.

"A move to the Bundesliga would be ideal for him. I don't know of any player who has gone there from the Premier League and hasn't come back a better player.

"Look at Jadon Sancho, for example, he went to Dortmund from Man City and went from strength to strength over there.

"Obviously it hasn't quite worked out for him in England, but the opportunity to develop his game and grow into a top player at Dortmund was there for him.

"They're now interested in Moore, and that would be the perfect destination for him, becaue he can play regularly at a high level and take another step in his development.

"All of the top clubs in Germany play good football, so he would benefit from that without it being quite as fast-paced as the Premier League, and that would be a boost.

"So it sounds to me that would be the ideal move, if they come in for him, because Tottenham are keen for him to go out on loan again and I can't think of a better destination."

Sources: Borussia Dortmund and duo turn attention to Mikey Moore after Tottenham decision Sources: Tottenham make Mikey Moore transfer decision as more signings planned What is Tottenham's long-term plan for Moore?

Tottenham made great efforts to keep Moore at the club when he signed his first professional contract in 2024, and are now keen to fast-track his development.

A loan move to Rangers was seen as the first major step towards landing a place in the Spurs first-team, and they had considered keeping him as part of this seaon's squad.

However, Football Insider revealed on 4 July that Tottenham are prepared to send Moore back out on loan, as he has been informed there is no clear path for his involvement.

They are keen for him to continue playing regular first-team football, and believe that may not be possible as they line up new attacking additions this summer.

Hopes are high for his long-term development, however, and plans are still in place for him to eventually make his mark on the first-team at Spurs.

West Ham keen on 27-year-old winger with Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa

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West Ham are keen on a move for Sevilla winger Ruben Vargas along with Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa, according to a report by Orgullo Biri.

West Ham are interested in an ambitious swoop for the La Liga man as they hunt for additions this summer under Nuno Espirito Santo. WHUFC are preparing for life in the Championship and they will be aiming for an immediate promotion back to the Premier League.

Vargas, 27, is under contract at Sevilla until June 2029 but he is being linked with an exit from Spain in this transfer window. He joined his current club only 12 months ago and he has since made 25 appearances in all competitions, 24 of which have come in the league, and he has chipped in with three goals and six assists.

In this latest update regarding his situation, Orgullo Biri claim he has emerged on the radar of the Hammers and they have ‘initiated contact’ regarding a potential switch. However, the London outfit face competition from Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa in the top flight, as well as Trabzonspor in the Turkish Super Lig.

West Ham have some work to do on the recruitment front over the coming weeks. It is expected to be a busy period at the London Stadium.

West Ham identify Ruben Vargas as potential Crysencio Summerville replacement

West Ham could see Vargas as a potential replacement for Crysencio Summerville. WHUFC face a battle to keep hold of the ex-Leeds United man amid links with other teams.

Like Summerville, Vargas plays off the left and likes to cut in on his right foot. If he joined the Hammers, he would give them more competition and depth in their attacking department.

He would provide Nuno with more quality going forward. In addition, his pace and trickery could cause Championship defenders some serious issues if he joined.

West Ham would do well to see off rival attention from Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa though. The latter can offer him European football which may turn his head.

Ruben Vargas stats for Sevilla in all competitions last season

West Ham chances of signing Ruben Vargas this summer assessed

West Ham could offer Vargas regular game time and a platform to show what he can do. It would be a surprise to see him join WHUFC if he has options higher up the pyramid though.

The Hammers’ reality is that they are no longer a Premier League club and although they are still an attractive team to join with a massive fanbase, they can’t properly compete with the finances of a Tottenham Hotspur or an Aston Villa right now. Prior to his switch to Sevilla, Vargas played in Germany for FC Augsburg.

Celtic 'accelerating' transfer talks for Tottenham midfielder

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Celtic are reportedly "accelerating" their transfer talks with Tottenham Hotspur for Alfie Devine.

The Hoops have been monitoring the 21-year-old midfielder's progress since last season and are keen on securing his services.

Tottenham Hotspur are likely to allow Devine to leave permanently this summer.

The midfielder spent last season on loan at Preston North End, with a £6 million future fee as part of the initial loan agreement.

Preston were keen to activate this clause, but the July 1 deadline has now passed, putting the deal in doubt.

This has opened the door for Celtic to make a move, although it will still cost the Scottish Premiership champions £6 million.

There is, however, interest from other clubs.

Wolves, despite their relegation to the Championship last season, are also said to be interested in Devine.

However, Devine is unlikely to feature in Spurs' squad this season with the club having signed Mateus Fernandes from West Ham and Sandro Tonali close to a £100 million switch from Newcastle United.

Other players such as Lucas Bergvall and Rodrigo Bentancur are already ahead of Devine in the pecking order at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Martin O'Neill is said to be a fan of Devine.

With all these factors in mind, Roberto De Zerbi may be willing to part ways with Devine and cash in on the young midfielder.

Tottenham do 'brilliant deal' with sponsor who just left Aston Villa - expert

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Tottenham Hotspur have done extremely well to secure a deal with a sponsorship who were recently partnered with Aston Villa.

That is according to former Manchester City financial adviser Stefan Borson, who exclusively told Football Insider that the allure of London may have sweetened the deal with Betano.

Spurs have recently announced a partnership with the gambling company as the club's training kit sponsor, with bans incoming for front-of-shirt deals ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.

This comes after two very successful seasons with Villa, who are currently Europa League champions, while also securing two top-four finishes in the last three Premier League campaigns.

For these reasons outlined, Borson is surprised that the company have switched from Villa Park to Hotspur Way, especially after the Lilywhites were nearly relegated last term.

In an attempt to understand why, the finance expert has weighed up the positives and negatives of the decision, coming to an interesting conclusion.

Stefan Borson baffled as Betano choose Tottenham over Aston Villa

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Borson believes that location has played a big role in Betano partnering with Spurs, with a new challenge now on the horizon.

"Well, I think it's interesting, isn't it? I don't know who Villa's training kit sponsor is. Clearly it would have been a more natural fit to go from front of shirt to the training kit?" he said.

"It can easily be a case that the betting company thinks, 'We've done a year or two years, or however long they were a partner, at Villa. Now let's broaden our scope'.

"It could have been that they got a brilliant deal from Spurs. There are so many variables, you just don't know.

"It may be that they have a head office in London and they really like the idea of having a box at Spurs.

"Maybe they found the Birmingham situation means that they can't get some of their biggest high-rollers to come to games. All these sorts of things play into the decision."

Stefan Borson 'really concerned' by Tottenham sponsorship situation: 'Red flag' Stefan Borson concerned by 'controversial' sponsorship as Aston Villa in talks over '£10m' deal Aston Villa can get their own back this summer

This might only be the start of a back-and-forth between Spurs and Villa this summer, with Unai Emery's side able to hit back in the market.

Football Insider understands that Villa are considering reigniting their interest in Lucas Bergvall, even though Spurs want to keep the midfielder.

A lack of minutes has made the Swedish international want to broaden his own horizons, away from North London, and Villa Park could be the perfect destination.

Age is only a number with Emery, and with Bergvall keen to prove himself away from Spurs, the manager could be a huge factor for the 20-year-old.

James Maddison sends message after Celtic agree big-name deal

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Tottenham Hotspur hotshot James Maddison has been quick to react to the news that Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has signed a new contract at Celtic.

The former Liverpool midfielder will now stay at Parkhead until at least 2027 after his original deal reached its end.

The 32-year-old made the move to the Hoops in February and played a vital role in the club's domestic double victory.

Now, Celtic have confirmed on their Instagram page that Oxlade-Chamberlain will be staying at the club for the 2026-27 campaign, with Maddison quick to react to the news.

Maddison and Oxlade-Chamberlain had previously played together for the England National Team.

The Tottenham star endured a tough 2025-26 campaign, having been injured for the majority of the season.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain signs one-year deal at Celtic

Oxlade-Chamberlain's new contract at the Hoops will no doubt be a boost.

The midfielder played nine matches in the Scottish Premiership last campaign and scored two goals, including an important late winner against Livingston.

With the Hoops yet to bring in a new face this summer, the 32-year-old's addition will be a boost to a demoralised Celtic fanbase ahead of the new campaign.

However, it wasn't only supporters who were happy with the news.

Maddison was quick to comment on Celtic's Instagram page and reacted with two love-eyed emojis after the club announced that the contract had been signed by the midfielder.

Celtic accelerate plans to sign midfielder as new offer submitted How good was Oxlade-Chamberlain at Celtic last season?

While the midfielder was not able to start every match, he proved himself to be an excellent impact substitute.

According to Fotmob, when he was on the pitch, he was able to have a big impact, which helped the club win both the Scottish Premiership title and the Scottish Cup.

Per 90 minutes, he was averaging 0.42 goals, a 0.17 xG, 1.91 shots, a 0.12 xA, 1.91 chances created, 0.85 successful dribbles and 1.69 tackles in the Scottish Premiership.

Therefore, this ability, combined with his experience, makes him an excellent player to have in the dressing room for the 2026-27 campaign.

However, it remains to be seen if Oxlade-Chamberlain can have a big impact at Celtic for the 2026-27 campaign as the club looks to retain the Scottish Premiership title.

John Terry claims England boss Thomas Tuchel wouldn't dare berate Trent Alexander-Arnold like he has done to Djed Spence as Piers Morgan labels Tottenham star a 'cocky little sod'

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Touchline fury sparks debate

Spence has found himself in the starting XI at the World Cup, with the Tottenham Hotspur full-back becoming the target of a furious touchline berating from his manager during England's recent fixture against DR Congo. The public scolding followed a similar incident against Ghana, raising immediate questions regarding the manager's man-management style after several creative stars were controversially omitted from the tournament squad altogether.

Terry questions hierarchy dynamics

Appearing on Piers Morgan’s World Cup Uncensored show, Terry expressed deep concern over the optics of Tuchel's reaction. He suggested that younger or newer squad members face harsher treatment than established global superstars.

Terry stated: "I don’t know if you’ve seen the images and the videos of him going mad at Spence again in the game from the throw-in. I’m not saying he’s picking him out – but he seems like he’s having a proper dig at him. But we see the training incident that we spoke about. I’m a little bit worried.

"I really like Tuchel, and I think he’s a top and elite manager, but when I see this, I’m like, if that’s Trent, I’m not sure he’s behaving like that. I’m not sure he’s talking to Trent like that. And maybe that’s a decision of why he’s picked a couple of these players, because he can go like that to these younger players or these new players in the squad, for me. That’s interesting."

Tuchel had previously attempted to justify his vocal outbursts and strict management of the full-back from the earlier stalemate against Ghana: "I wanted him to be more engaged in the attacking phase. To start our attacks a bit wider and to have more runs through the last line. I have to scream because nobody hears me otherwise."

Pundits condemn squad selection

The dispute intensified debates surrounding Tuchel's controversial selection decisions, which saw elite figures omitted from the plane. Morgan was quick to ask the Chelsea legend whether the current situation had become a clash of personality traits rather than footballing ability.

The celebrity TV host added: "I mean, don’t forget this is Djed Spence, who’s a bit of a cocky little sod. He’s the one that, you know, wouldn’t shake Thomas Frank‘s hand, he’s the one that got hooked off the pitch and then decided to make a point with Tudor by coming back off the bench and sticking his hand out."

Terry then interrupted the host to elaborate further on his view of the defender's capabilities and Tuchel's mixed managerial signals: "Listen, I’m not his fan. I don’t think he’s a good defender, I don’t think he’s a good footballer. He’s played in a really struggling Spurs side this year. But I will say I’ve not seen Tuchel do that to anyone else. It just seems to be on two or three occasions he’s dug Spence out. But also, for me, he’s then relied on him and played him again. I agree it’s kind of mixed messaging.”

Nicky Butt also criticised the manager's rigid approach to selection, telling Paddy Power: "I don’t care what he says, and he’ll never admit it, the squad is wrong. But he just seems like the kind of manager who’s stubborn, arrogant in a way that he’s just doing what he wants to do.

"Deep down he’ll never admit it but he'll know that he should have taken Trent Alexander-Arnold, 100 per cent. He’ll know with 15 minutes left at 0-0, he’ll have looked at the bench and wish he would have had a Phil Foden or a Cole Palmer on the bench."

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