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Tottenham Hotspur have received a huge boost in their quest to keep Micky van de Ven away from the clutches of Liverpool and Real Madrid, according to a transfer journalist.

With both Liverpool and Real Madrid on the hunt for a new centre-back in 2026, Van de Ven’s name has found its way on the radar of the defending Premier League champions and the Spanish powerhouse. The Netherlands international has established himself as one of the best centre-backs in English football since his £34million (€39m, $45m) move from VfL Wolfsburg in 2023 and is still only 24.

Liverpool are said to have taken a shine to Van de Ven, as the Merseyside club look to bring in a top-class centre-back in 2026, with Ibrahima Konate out of contract at the end of the season.

With Antonio Rudiger and David Alaba out of contract at the Santiago Bernabeu next summer, Real Madrid are keeping tabs on Van de Ven, sources have told TEAMtalk’s transfer correspondent, Fraser Fletcher.

However, Tottenham are in no mood to part ways with one of their prized assets, with journalist Graeme Bailey revealing that the defender himself is ready to sign a new deal with Spurs and extend his stay at north London beyond the summer of 2029.

Bailey told TBR: “A new deal for Van de Ven is emerging as one of Tottenham’s priorities under Vinai Venkatesham’s reign, and talks have already been taking place since the summer.

“But this is both ways, Van de Ven is very happy at Tottenham, he has settled in brilliantly since he arrived, having now emerged as one of the Premier League’s best, and his partnership with Cristian Romero is on par with anything in the game.

“Romero plays a part here; his decision not to seek a move in the summer has an impact on Van de Ven, who is ready to follow in his steps and sign, and he will be rewarded with similar terms to those of his Argentine colleague.

“Yes, both Spurs and Van de Ven are aware of interest; there is no denying that. Spurs believe he is one of the best anywhere in Europe, and they are recognising this with this prospective new deal. Talks are set to accelerate this month.”

Van de Ven has made 66 appearances for Tottenham so far in his career, scoring nine goals and providing two assists in the process.

READ NEXT 🔴 Transfer Debrief: Man Utd plan spectacular January move; Liverpool icon to leave; Tottenham star eyed by Real Madrid

How highly Tottenham rate Micky van de Ven – sources

TEAMtalk understands that Tottenham rate Van de Ven so highly that last season’s Europa League winners will not even entertain talks over selling him until another club is willing to pay over £90million (€102m, $118.5m) for him.

Sources close to Tottenham have told us that there is “zero intention” to part ways with Van de Ven.

However, the Premier League club do accept that, to match the Dutchman’s ambitions, they will need to keep on qualifying for the Champions League.

We understand that Paris Saint-Germain are also interested in Van de Ven, who has proved so far at Tottenham that he has the quality to play for a club of that stature.

Latest Tottenham transfer news: Dusan Vlahovic conditions, Bundesliga raid

In other news, Tottenham Hotspur have learned the major conditions for them to sign Dusan Vlahovic, who is out of contract at Juventus at the end of the season.

Another striker is also on Tottenham’s radar, with the star in question having worked with Spurs manager Thomas Frank at Brentford.

Tottenham have long been linked with Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic and now know the demands they’d have to adhere to which could see them finally land the striker.

Spurs’ striker options have not roused confidence this season. Richarlison is their top scorer in the Premier League with just three goals – joint with centre-back Micky van de Ven – while Mathys Tel has done little, and injuries to Randal Kolo Muani and Dominic Solanke mean neither have played often.

For some time, Tottenham have been linked with the signing of Juventus striker Vlahovic, stretching back to when he was signed by the Italian side in 2022.

Those links are growing fast given the striker is out of contract in the summer, and while Juve are willing to extend his deal, they might be unable to.

Reports in Italy have suggested that Vlahovic will only be re-signed by Juve if he reduces his wage demands – he’s said to want a ‘top salary and signing-on bonus.’

That will not necessarily be from the Italian side, with Tottenham and other clubs in the mix.

It’s suggested it will be hard for Juve to keep Vlahovic, as there’s no suggestion he reduces his demands, and given he’s out of contract in the summer, a free transfer seemingly beckons.

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January transfer chance on the cards

That said, Vlahovic could yet move on in January, despite the fact he’d be able to walk away for nothing in just a few months.

TEAMtalk is aware that Juve will let the striker go for £17.5million in January rather than letting him go for free in the summer, when there’s expected to be a battle for his services.

That plan hinges on there being a club willing to pay a fee for him when they know he’d come free in a few months.

The downside to waiting, for all but one club, will be that they don’t land him, where paying a fee in January would essentially guarantee a move.

The question is whether £17.5million is a low enough fee for a club to agree to part with, alongside the large demands made by Vlahovic himself.

Tottenham round-up: Van de Ven 2.0 eyed

Tottenham have added Wolfsburg centre-back Konstantinos Koulierakis to their shortlist as they look to land a left-sided defender to cover Micky van de Ven.

Koulierakis is clearly similar to the Dutchman, playing for his former side on the left side of defence, so he could impact Spurs in a similar way.

Meanwhile, Tottenham target Joao Gomes could be the subject of interest in January, and TEAMtalk is aware he’ll not stick it out at Wolves if they’re relegated.

Manchester United are planning to go big with a move for Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson in January, a Liverpool cult hero could pen a pre-contract agreement to leave the club, while this week’s exclusive Transfer Debrief can reveal Tottenham star Micky van de Ven has emerged as a top target for Real Madrid.

Man Utd to go all out for Anderson

Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim remains keen to add to his midfield options, and a statement move for Forest’s rising star Anderson is in the pipeline.

TEAMtalk transfer insider Fraser Fletcher exclusively revealed on November 4 that United view Anderson as a ‘realistic’ target for the January transfer window.

The 22-year-old England star, who joined Forest from Newcastle United in a £35million deal last summer, has quickly established himself as a key player at the City Ground.

His energetic displays in midfield have caught the eye of United’s boss, Ruben Amorim, who sources say is desperate to inject more dynamism and legs into his engine room.

Sources reveal that Anderson would be ‘very keen’ on a move to Old Trafford – and the mutual interest could prove pivotal in negotiations.

Forest have drawn a clear line in the sand: pay big money or back off. They value Anderson at around the £80m mark, though the Red Devils believe a deal could be struck closer to £60m this winter.

And interestingly, Anderson’s signing could be the move that allows Kobbie Mainoo to leave on loan, with TEAMtalk also revealing on November 3 that Napoli are pushing hard for a deal.

Liverpool hero keen on exit – could agree deal in January

TEAMtalk revealed in an exclusive update yesterday (November 6) that Liverpool icon Andy Robertson is very tempted by a move to Celtic.

The 31-year-old left-back, whose Anfield deal expires in June 2026, has been a cornerstone of Liverpool’s success since 2017, winning two Premier League titles, a Champions League and every major honour in between.

Robertson is still loved by Liverpool supporters, but his contract situation has drawn interest in his signature. He is able to hold talks with suitors over a pre-contract agreement in January, ahead of a free transfer next summer.

Sources close to Robertson say Celtic “lives in his heart”. A lifelong Hoops supporter from Glasgow’s south side, he idolised the club as a child and still follows every result. He was also there as a youth player between 2003-09.

“It’s the one move that would make total sense for him personally,” an insider revealed. “He wants to give something back to Scottish football and finish where it all began.”

Celtic are ready to pounce, viewing Robertson as an experienced pro who could raise the quality of their squad as they aim to dominate domestically and compete in Europe.

The Hoops also see Robertson as the perfect mentor for emerging left-back prospects and a leader to steady a defence that has shipped goals in recent weeks.

Real Madrid plot Tottenham raid

Micky van de Ven is undoubtedly one of Tottenham’s most important players, and his brilliant solo goal against Copenhagen in the Champions League has only increased the interest in his signature.

TEAMtalk revealed on November 5 that Real Madrid have identified the Dutch international as a key target as Xabi Alonso looks to add to his defensive options.

Van de Ven, 24, is contracted with Spurs until 2029, so that puts them in a very strong negotiating position. Only offers north of £90m would make them consider negotiations, but an exit is completely off the table in January.

However, sources suggest that failure to qualify for the Champions League could lead to a shock exit next summer.

Van de Ven has ambitions to play at the highest level consistently, and therefore, it is paramount that Tottenham stay in the elite competition.

Failure to secure this could open the door for suitors. Paris Saint-Germain, long-term admirers since his Wolfsburg days, are also monitoring the situation closely.

Meanwhile, TEAMtalk confirmed in a separate update on November 6 that Spurs are keeping tabs on the situation of Inter Milan centre-back Alessandro Bastoni, who is on Liverpool’s shortlist, too.

Arsenal to block exit / Arne Slot talks / Toney to Tottenham / Big Everton updates and more…

Arsenal will NOT entertain the idea of selling captain Martin Odegaard, despite links with a shock move to Barcelona.

Liverpool are backing new left-back signing Milos Kerkez to succeed and be the long-term replacement for Robertson despite his lacklustre start at Anfield.

Liverpool are planning to open talks with Arne Slot imminently over extending his contract.

Tottenham are ready to battle Barcelona for the signing of former striker Harry Kane should he look to leave Bayern Munich next summer.

Aston Villa are close to agreeing a contract extension with Morgan Rogers, who has been targeted by Chelsea and Tottenham.

Tottenham are leading the race for Al-Ahli striker Ivan Toney, who is open to a reunion with former Brentford boss Thomas Frank, potentially in January.

Celtic’s top manager target remains Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna, while Efrain Juarez is open to taking the job and Wilfried Nancy, Kjetil Knutsen, and Robbie Keane are being considered.

Man Utd are keen to bring in a new centre-back and wing-back as well as a midfielder, but may have to wait until next summer to make those additions.

Man Utd are unlikely to move for West Ham playmaker Lucas Paqueta in January, despite links.

West Ham striker Niclas Fullkrug is likely to leave in January, with Hamburg and Stuttgart both interested.

Everton, Tottenham, Chelsea and West Ham are keeping tabs on Dusan Vlahovic, who could leave Juventus for €20m in January.

Everton have no plans to recall talented midfielder Harrison Armstrong from his loan with Preston North End, despite speculation amid his excellent form.

The Toffees will NOT entertain selling Jarrad Branthwaite in January, with Man Utd still interested despite his injury problems.

Everton sources insist David Moyes is not under threat of being sacked, despite shock reports linking a former Liverpool manager with his job.

Manchester City are willing to sell Nathan Ake for £25m in January, with Crystal Palace, Everton and Fulham all keen.

Man City retain interest in Sporting CP star Ivan Fresneda as Pep Guardiola looks to sign a new right-back.

Chelsea, Tottenham, Arsenal, and Liverpool all hold genuine interest in Juventus star Kenan Yildiz. Real Madrid ace Rodrygo is also on Spurs’ ambitious shortlist.

A second source has followed TEAMtalk’s lead in confirming Tottenham are open to signing Ivan Toney in January, and Thomas Frank has already held direct talks with the proven frontman.

Tottenham are lacking a cutting edge up front right now, as evidenced by the fact centre-back, Micky van de Ven, is their top scorer this season. The Dutchman leads the way with six goals in all competitions. No other Spurs player has even reached five.

Dominic Solanke remains troubled by an ankle issue, Randal Kolo Muani is yet to score for his loan club, Richarlison blows hot and cold, and Mathys Tel is still a diamond in the rough.

As such, there is a growing sense Spurs will dip into the market for a proven striker in January and Toney, 29, is in Frank’s sights.

The Dane was Toney’s manager during his time at Brentford where in his last season with the Bees, Toney notched 20 goals in the Premier League.

He transferred to Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli in the summer of 2024, but could return to England via the loan route in January.

TEAMtalk broke that news via our insider, Fraser Fletcher, on Tuesday. Frank is understood to have held ‘direct talks’ with Toney who is receptive to a Premier League return.

Now, the latest from talkSPORT has backed up our reporting, declaring: ‘Thomas Frank would be open to bringing Ivan Toney back to the Premier League.’

Furthermore, their chief football reporter, Alex Crook, stated: “I keep coming back to Ivan Toney for Tottenham. You look at what he did with Thomas Frank at Brentford.

“I think he’d like to come back to the Premier League, obviously financially it might be a difficult deal, but that just looks a perfect fit to me for Spurs either in January or next summer.”

Adding to Toney’s desire to return to England will be his omission from Thomas Tuchel’s latest England squad announced on Friday.

Harry Kane was the only out-and-out striker chosen in the squad, unless you count Marcus Rashford too.

Clearly, Toney must perform well in a more difficult league like the EPL if he’s to change Tuchel’s mind ahead of next summer’s World Cup.

Can Frank, Toney reunion really happen?

Sources told TEAMtalk Spurs are leading the race for Toney.

A permanent exit mid-season is off the table – clubs baulk at a £30m fee in January – while Toney risks a hefty tax bill if his lucrative Saudi contract is terminated early.

A straight loan, or loan-to-buy arrangement, is the only viable path, allowing Al-Ahli to protect their investment while Toney chases top-flight football.

Sources say Spurs view him as the ideal short-term solution to their striking woes, potentially replacing the inconsistent Richarlison. Inserting an obligation to buy in the summer could sweeten the deal for Al-Ahli and ensure their green light.

You can read our full and original exclusive on Tottenham’s plans to sign Toney in January here.

Latest Tottenham news

In other news, Tottenham have reportedly added a centre-back with a lot of parallels to Micky van de Ven to their shortlist for January as they look to improve the options in their back line.

Elsewhere, Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes will not stick around in the summer if his club are relegated, TEAMtalk sources state, and there is even the potential of a January switch.

Tottenham are one of the clubs who have previously shown interest in the Brazil international.

Meanwhile, Spurs are believed to be ready to utilise the talents of academy man Dane Scarlett more and more going forwards.

That is as they prepare to oust Richarlison, amid interest from his former side Everton.

Tottenham have reportedly added a centre-back with a lot of parallels to Micky van de Ven to their shortlist for January as they look to improve the options in their back line.

Spurs have begun the season in a decent manner, certainly far better than how they might have expected to recover from last term. Indeed, they finished 17th in the Premier League last season and are currently sixth.

What’s more, they are just two points shy of second-placed Manchester City, but also just two points above 11th-placed Aston Villa.

Spurs’ defence is one of the most solid in the Premier League this term, conceding only eight goals in 10 games – only rivals Arsenal have conceded less.

But a new central defender is a ‘priority’ given Kevin Danso and Radu Dragusin are the only back-up options to starters Van de Ven and Romero.

According to TBRFootball, Wolfsburg defender Konstantinos Koulierakis has been added to Tottenham‘s list of defensive targets.

Quickly establishing himself as a key player for both Greece and Wolfsburg, the 21-year-old has been scouted by Liverpool as well as Spurs.

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Koulierakis the next Van de Ven?

There are parallels between Koulierakis and star Tottenham centre-back Van de Ven, beyond just the fact the Greek plays for the Spurs man’s former side, Wolfsburg.

It’s said that the north London club ideally want a left-sided centre-back to cover Van de Ven, so they clearly think the two are similar.

On that point, insider Graeme Bailey said: “Koulierakis is attracting a lot of attention across Europe, composed and left-sided – left-footed defenders do tend to carry a bit more of a premium and he is standing out at the moment.”

What’s more, Koulierakis’ stats last season were similar to Van de Ven’s from his final season with Wolfsburg, with the numbers of tackles and interceptions similar, though the Greek is far ahead on aerial duels and clearances.

But Van de Ven has become a better player since he moved to Tottenham, and he’s scored two headed goals of his three in the Premier League this term, so his prowess in the air suggests the pair are now very similar.

Van de Ven has six goals to his name this term, so if Koulierakis could add another string to his bow, he could be a perfect addition to the Tottenham side, given he’s clearly already a very competent defender.

Tottenham round-up: Spurs in mix for Wolves star

Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes will not stick around in the summer if his club are relegated, TEAMtalk sources state, and there is even the potential of a January attack.

Tottenham are one of the clubs who have previously shown interest in the Brazil international.

Meanwhile, Spurs are believed to be ready to utilise the talents of academy man Dane Scarlett more going forwards.

That is as they prepare to oust Richarlison, amid interest from his former side Everton.

Tottenham Hotspur are ready to lean more on the talents of young striker Dane Scarlett going forward, despite the fact they are in the market for a new No.9 as they prepare to try and offload Brazilian frontman Richarlison in the January transfer window.

Scarlett has made just 22 senior appearances for Spurs in all competitions, scoring only once in that time after coming through the youth ranks at the north London club.

However, he appears to have caught Thomas Frank’s eye, especially when you consider that Harry Kane heir-apparent Will Lankshear was allowed to leave Tottenham on loan over the summer while Scarlett remained around the first-team squad.

The 21-year-old, who has had loan stints at Portsmouth, Ipswich and Oxford during his young career so far, impressed in his 10-minute cameo off the bench against Copenhagen in the Champions League.

Indeed, Scarlett won a penalty in stoppage-time, only for the man he could ultimately replace in the squad, Richarlison, to fire the spot-kick against the bar.

But with Scatlett very much in Frank’s thoughts, TEAMtalk’s Dean Jones has given some insight on what the future holds for the talented attacker.

Jones said: “Dane Scarlett could get more chances soon – even in the Premier League. It wouldn’t surprise me.

“He’s definitely rated within the set-up and they have been giving him plenty of exposure to life around the first team even when not involved actively. He made an impressive impact against Copenhagen and I think we will be seeing more of him over the next couple of months on the back of that.

“It might not be immediately, given their next games are United, Arsenal and PSG. But after that and leading into the new year, I would expect him to start building more minutes to see if he can make a bit of a mark on the team and boost their options and intensity in the final third.

“He’s a confident and capable player. He probably would have scored the penalty that Richarlison missed. There is also an argument that could be made that Spurs will keep him around beyond January, while they will be open to offers for Richarlison.”

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Tottenham expected to sign a new No.9

Scarlett’s opportunities may well have to come before the January window, given that TEAMtalk sources have informed us that the club are actively looking to strengthen their forward options in the new year.

Signing a new left-winger, as well as another striker, are both priorities for returning sporting director Fabio Paratici heading into the winter window.

Tottenham have been without arguably their top marksman Dominic Solanke since last August, as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury that ultimately ended up needing surgery.

Richarlison has hardly made a case to remain at the club in Solankee’s absence, despite his impressive start to the campaign. Loanee Randal Kolo Muani, however, did actually start to show some signs that he is getting to grips with life in England in the win over Copenhagen.

Offloading Richarlison does remain a serious option for Spurs, if they can find a suitor, with former club Everton known to be keen on a reunion.

If that happens, Tottenham will move to bolster the position and have a plethora of options who are currently on their radar.

At this stage, TEAMtak can confirm that their top two options are former Brentford attacker Ivan Toney and Juventus star Dusan Vlahovic.

Our insider Fraser Fletcher recently confirmed that Frank has been in ‘direct contact’ with his old No.9 about a return to the Premier League, with the 29-year-old currently scoring for fun with Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League.

Vlahovic, meanwhile, is expected to be available for a cut-price €20m (£17.5m, $23m) fee in January, due to the fact that his current Juve contract runs out in the summer of 2026.

The Serbia international has been a long-time target of Tottenham’s and Paratici’s strong Serie A connections give them a strong chance of completing a deal.

However, Tottenham are not the only club in for the 25-year-old, with Manchester United, Chelsea, Everton and West Ham also in the mix.

Either way, Spurs will be a club to keep a close eye on in January and TEAMtalk will be across all their movements.

Latest Tottenham news: Big Van de Ven update; secret Harry Kane weapon

First up, Real Madrid’s pursuit of Tottenham’s Micky van de Ven remains a key storyline ahead of the summer 2026 transfer window, with the centre-back drawing increasing attention from Europe’s elite, with TEAMtalk detailing the latest on the centre-back’s future.

Elsewhere, Harry Kane is ready to trigger his Bayern Munich escape hatch, and Spurs have a secret weapon as they prepare to rival Barcelona in the race to sign their former striker, TEAMtalk understands.

And finally, Tottenham remain in the hunt to sign an explosive left-sided winger from a Premier League rival, although their hopes of securing a much-needed January transfer appear to be disappearing fast.

Tottenham are gearing up for two crucial transfer windows in which they could shatter records, according to TEAMtalk sources, with a Real Madrid superstar high on their shortlist.

Spurs, under new manager Thomas Frank, have got off to an excellent start this season in both the Premier League and Champions League, and are dreaming of a big campaign.

Frank is keen to bring in some more exciting players in January and next summer, and is set to have the full backing of the Tottenham board.

Strengthening their wide options is a top priority, as we have reported, and Real Madrid star Rodrygo is high on their radar, along with Juventus ace Kenan Yildiz.

Transfer expert Dean Jones has exclusively told TEAMtalk that we can expect big things from Tottenham in the coming transfer windows, amid further investment from owners, ENIC.

“Before the January transfer window opens, I think we will get a better realisation of how high Tottenham are ready to set the bar when it comes to making new signings,” Jones stated.

“It is a difficult window to make a statement signing, but I would expect us to get a good idea soon of their intent in terms of where they are going to take the club in 2026 and beyond.

“I already reported about the wide attacking targets being an area of priority, and that absolutely is the case, and they have been drawing up names over the past two weeks. But even as part of that, they realise that some of the names are probably going to be off-limits in the next transfer window.

“I really think Spurs will seek to make some of the biggest signings in their history. They have to be careful as part of that because there will be a chance that with new investment comes a new premium that you are asked to pay for talent.

“But if the likes of Rodrygo at Real Madrid or Yildiz at Juve become a genuine possibility in January or in the summer, then I think Spurs will put themselves in the picture.”

Tottenham plan to make major signings under Thomas Frank

Rodrygo has been on Tottenham’s radar for some time, but it’s worth noting that other Premier League sides will also be in the mix should he become available.

Manchester City are admirers of the 24-year-old, and considered bringing him in as a replacement for Savinho over the summer, when he was close to joining Spurs.

Liverpool have also been linked with Rodrygo and should Mo Salah depart next summer the talk of a move to Anfield is likely to arise again.

The Brazilian is thought to be keen on testing himself in the Premier League.

As for Yildiz, TEAMtalk revealed in an update on November 5 that Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea are all admirers of the 20-year-old, who can play as a winger or centre-forward.

Spurs can also be added to his list of suitors, but a Juventus exit depends on whether the Italian giants are able to tie him down to a new contract.

Renewal talks are imminent but should they fail, Premier League clubs are poised to swoop in to sign him.

It is a very exciting time for Tottenham fans, and sources have made clear that big additions are likely.

It will be interesting to see whether they do splash the cash in January, or wait until next summer to begin the next main phase of rebuilding their squad.

Latest Tottenham news: Lookman on radar / Van de Ven targeted

Meanwhile, along with Rodrygo and Yildiz, TEAMtalk understands that Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman is also being considered by Tottenham.

A public fall-out with Atalanta boss Ivan Juric has pushed Lookman closer to an exit, and could give Spurs the chance to swoop in for him in January.

In other news, TEAMtalk transfer correspondent has confirmed that Micky van de Ven is a target for Real Madrid, but only a HUGE bid would force Tottenham to consider a sale.

Tottenham made a concrete attempt to sign Ademola Lookman in the summer, but he could now fall straight into sporting director Fabio Paratici’s lap in the January transfer window instead, following a shocking turn of events that took place on Wednesday evening.

Spurs made an offer to take Lookman from Atalanta on loan with an option to buy late in the summer window, but the approach was rejected by the Serie A side.

Lookman can play across the front line and Tottenham are still in need of a player like him for the second half of the season.

There was always a chance he could be looking for a move in the new year – and now a public fall-out with boss Ivan Juric has pushed him closer towards the exit.

The pair clashed after Lookman was substituted in Wednesday’s Champions League match in Marseille.

Lookman appeared frustrated as he was replaced by Yunus Musah on 75 minutes, and boss Juric then grabbed Lookman by the arm and berated him on the sideline.

The former Everton attacker appeared surprised by the reaction of his coach and, as staff pulled them apart, Lookman’s future with Atalanta begins to look clouded.

Bayern Munich were also interested in Lookman last summer and it is expected Lookman will become attainable in January.

Early indications suggest Atalanta would be looking for a permanent deal if he is to leave the club, as was the case over the summer.

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Latest Tottenham news: Forgotten signing north London bound; Vlahovic move update

First up, Tottenham are closing in on the forgotten signing of an extraordinary teenage talent who has sent an emotional exit message to his current club, ahead of a January switch to north London.

Elsewhere, an Inter Milan defender is piqued by the idea of joining Spurs in 2026 and one of Italy’s most trusted publications have shed light on Fabio Paratici’s potential next masterclass.

And finally, Juventus are starting to hope there might yet be a chance of Dusan Vlahovic staying at the club, as four Premier League clubs wait on standby for a decision, with Tottenham among them, TEAMtalk understands.

Tottenham Hotspur are closing in on the forgotten signing of an extraordinary teenage talent who has sent an emotional exit message to his current club, ahead of a January switch to north London.

Spurs are expected to active in the winter market again as they look to bolster Thomas Frank’s attack in particular, although one exciting signing is already agreed and ready to walk through the door in January.

Generational Irish talent Mason Melia has penned a farewell message to St Patrick’s Athletic before making his move to The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

The 18-year-old is one of the biggest young talents in Irish football and won the PFA Ireland Young Player of the Year award last year.

As long ago as February, Tottenham agreed a deal for the striker worth an initial £1.6million – a record transfer for the League of Ireland – with the potential for add-ons to double that figure.

Tottenham overcame competition from top clubs across the Premier League and Europe to land the youngster’s signature, with Melia agreeing a lengthy contract until 2031.

As revealed by Football.London, Spurs have put Melia on a tailored conditioning programme to prepare him for the rigours of the Premier League when he arrives early next year.

The UK’s exit from the European Union meant Melia was unable to move to Hotspur Way until he turned 18, which happened in September.

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Mason Melia already making his mark in Europe

While Melia has been unable to work with Spurs’ academy coaches, the delayed move has meant him gaining more exposure to the men’s game at both Irish and European level.

Despite his young age, Melia has already played a remarkable 98 senior matches and been directly involved in 33 goals, scoring 25 and recording eight assists.

The Irish league season ended at the weekend with a 0-0 draw for fifth-placed St Pat’s at Shelbourne with Melia playing 90 minutes.

The young attacker finished his campaign with 13 goals and four assists from 35 League of Ireland matches and also netted and provided an assist in the club’s six Europa League qualifiers.

Melia has also scored three goals in his first four Republic of Ireland U21 matches to continually showcase his talents.

Writing about his exit from St Pat’s this week, Melia commented: “Never thought the day would come that I would be closing my chapter at @stpatsfc, I would like to thank everyone that has supported me while at my time at pats to the staff, teammates and to all the fans.

“From making my debut to scoring my first league goal, winning the cup and making so many memories with my teammates. I’ve met some good people and not so good….

“Everyone has a played a vital role in my career and I can’t say how thankful I am for that, I’ve made some close friends that I will always have by my side. Thank you to all of yous that believed in me and gave me a path to get to where I am today. Once a saint always a saint.”

Melia will now take a break before joining up with Frank’s squad in January, and former Spurs goalkeeper Josh Keeley has already told his old club what to expect from the player.

Speaking to Football.London, Keeley said: “I mean he is a young lad, who has played a lot of senior games at the minute and he is playing constantly for St Pats.

“I think him coming over, signing for Spurs and getting to know all the boys is only going to help him progress. He is going to do very, very well.”

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Latest Tottenham news: Defensive signing boost; Van de Ven exit concern

An Inter Milan defender is piqued by the idea of joining Tottenham in 2026 and one of Italy’s most trusted publications have shed light on Fabio Paratici’s potential next masterclass.

Elsewhere, Real Madrid’s pursuit of Tottenham’s Micky van de Ven remains a key storyline ahead of the summer 2026 transfer window, with the centre-back drawing increasing attention from Europe’s elite.

An Inter Milan defender is piqued by the idea of joining Tottenham in 2026 and one of Italy’s most trusted publications have shed light on Fabio Paratici’s potential next masterclass.

Paratici is back pulling the strings at Tottenham in conjunction with Johan Lange and Vinai Venkatesham. Prior to his return to Spurs following a suspension from all footballing activities, Paratici masterminded the signings of several important players from Italy.

Naturally, the Italian’s contacts in his home country are strong and the likes of Cristian Romero, Destiny Udogie, Rodrigo Bentancur and Dejan Kulusevski, to name just four, were signed from Serie A sides.

Romero and Kulusevski have been particularly successful in north London and are now widely regarded as being two of Tottenham’s best players at present.

According to the latest from Gazzetta dello Sport, Paratici and Spurs could raid a leading Serie A side once again next year.

A move for Inter Milan centre-back,. Yann Bisseck, was talked up in the piece. What’s more, it was suggested Inter believe the writing is on the wall with regards to Bisseck’s exit next summer.

Inter have already begun to explore the domestic market in Italy for replacements for the Germany international.

Even more encouraging for Tottenham were the claims Bisseck is tempted by the idea of joining Spurs.

GdS wrote: ‘The prospect of a move to Tottenham is piquing the player and his entourage.’

A transfer to a leading English side is believed to be the likeliest next step for the 24-year-old who stands at 6f 5in tall.

West Ham are also credited with interest, but in a straight fight between the two London clubs, there’ll only be one winner in that transfer battle.

Inter signed Bisseck from Danish side AGF for just €7m prior to add-ons back in 2023.

The report did not offer a clue as to how much he’s now valued at by Inter, but you can guarantee it’s a hell of a lot more than €7m.

The right-footer is contracted to Inter until 2029, meaning the Serie A giant are in a strong position to play hardball in any negotiations and maximise their profits.

Latest Tottenham news – Van de Ven / Palhinha

In other news, Real Madrid’s pursuit of Tottenham’s Micky van de Ven remains a key storyline ahead of the summer 2026 transfer window, with the centre-back drawing increasing attention from Europe’s elite.

As previously reported, TEAMtalk understands that Real Madrid hold a genuine interest in the 24-year-old, who is one of Spurs’ most important players.

Spurs’ hierarchy view him as a world-class centre-back and a symbol of their ambitious project under Frank. Sources close to the club insist there is “zero intention” to part ways, with the defender’s development central to their plans, but one factor could prove pivotal…