TEAMtalk

Fabio Paratici’s return to Tottenham Hotspur does not change their stance on targeting Antoine Semenyo, sources have confirmed to TEAMtalk.

Paratici is returning to the club in a sporting director role and it is often the case that he would be expected to focus primarily on targets from Italy. But, in the case of Semenyo, sources insist the Bournemouth player remains on their radar.

It is understood that other players are going to come into view of a similar style across 2026, and some may also come from within the Premier League as Thomas Frank will work closely with recruitment staff to ensure the potential signings have the right profile fit for his team.

Semenyo’s situation is a tricky one and signing him in January will be difficult because of the financial premium that will be expected.

He is rated between £80-100million by Bournemouth but it is thought that amount could change down the line, with unconfirmed reports of a release clause existing in his contract.

Sources around Bournemouth had been insisting there is no clause attached that could take him away at a reasonable fee but there has always been some scepticism in the game about that.

And now there are serious explorations from clubs to uncover the full reality of his current agreement.

Tottenham will be among those and our indications are that Paratici is on board with leading any pursuit of Semenyo, if he seems attainable.

DIVE DEEPER 🔎 Five Fabio Paratici priorities after Tottenham return confirmed: Left-wing conundrum; Harry Kane return?

Tottenham fighting Man Utd, Liverpool for Antoine Semenyo

TEAMtalk revealed on October 9 that Spurs want to properly assess the level of competition for the winger before firmly committing to a bid next year.

Spurs hold the strongest interest in Semenyo, but they are not alone in pursuing him. Manchester United, Liverpool, Manchester City and Aston Villa are all tracking him too.

TEAMtalk’s Fraser Fletcher reported earlier this month that Spurs are plotting a major bid to try and win the chase for Semenyo.

We understand Man Utd are big admirers of the Ghana international, viewing him as a great long-term signing regardless of whether Ruben Amorim stays in charge or is sacked.

Liverpool, meanwhile, view Semenyo as an ideal successor for Mo Salah on the right flank, ready for when the Anfield icon decides to hang up his boots.

Semenyo hired a performance coach over the summer to take his game to the next level, and the decision has worked wonders. He was a lethal player last season but is even more effective now.

He has already notched six goals and three assists in eight appearances this term, a tally which includes braces against Liverpool and Fulham.

Tottenham: Winger options ranked; Brazilian target

Last week, TEAMtalk ranked five potential winger signings Spurs could make in 2026.

Scouts claim a Vasco da Gama starlet is one of the most talented youngsters to come out of Brazil in years, and Spurs are in the mix for him.

There is a mad scramble to secure his services and all the details can be found here.

Tottenham Hotspur boss Thomas Frank is preparing his squad for Sunday’s return to Premier League action against Aston Villa, and he has a positive update on injured duo Dominic Solanke and Randal Kolo Muani.

Spurs will be looking to make it two wins on the bounce after ending their run of consecutive draws in the Premier League with victory at Leeds last time out.

However, Villa will prove a tough nut to crack after recovering from a difficult start to the campaign to take maximum points from their last three outings.

For Tottenham, though, there is at least some good news on the injury front, where the striker position has taken a particular battering over the last couple of months.

Solanke and Kolo Muani have been missing for a number of weeks now, but in his press conference for the Villa clash, Frank had some much better news on the pair.

The Dane told Football London: “Kolo Muani has trained now with the team for two weeks. That looks positive. Dom has progressed well from the surgery. The detail is positive.

“Dom’s progressed well after the surgery. Been on pitch, actually I don’t know if it was today, but it definitely was the two days before that. So the detail is he’s progressing and going forward, so that’s good.

“The good thing is it’s positive, he’s progressing now. But he’s still training on his own. I don’t want to be too excited or too negative either way, so I’m actually taking it a little bit day-by-day and week-by-week to see how quick he progresses.

“Dom is naturally a fit player, there’s some players that naturally get fitness up to a high level. But of course we also need to take into consideration he basically hasn’t trained with the team since July.

“But that’s not to say it will take three months to get up to pace. It’s just it will take a little bit of time to get up to pace. How long, I don’t know.”

Predicted XI vs Villa: £60m Tottenham duo dropped and Frank makes unpopular Xavi Simons decision

While the positives are obviously good news for Frank and Tottenham, there were also some negatives, with Ben Davies suffering an issue on Wales duty and Yves Bissouma also having a setback with Mali that will “keep him out for weeks”, according to Frank.

Summer signing Kota Takai is also nearing full fitness, as is Radu Dragusin, who has been out since February after his ACL injury but has since resumed training.

Latest Tottenham news

TEAMtalk sources have given us an update on one of the best young talents to come out of Brazil in years, with Tottenham and Chelsea already having been in talks with his agent, while Liverpool and Arsenal are also monitoring developments.

TEAMtalk have recently brought you reports that Tottenham Hotspur boss Thomas Frank is not completely happy with the goalkeeping situation at the club, but we have looked at why moving on from current No.1 Guglielmo Vicario could end up being a major mistake.

Tottenham have confirmed the return of Fabio Paratici as sporting director alongside Johan Lange – and the pair already have a lot to get stuck into, with TEAMtalk looking at five factors that need addressing.

Manchester United have pinpointed the player they firmly believe can transform their midfield in a stunning January transfer window swoop, while Tottenham Hotspur are are ready to make a Harry Kane ‘statement of intent’, and Chelsea have been boosted in their bid to sign an elite new keeper – all in this week’s exclusive TEAMtalk Transfer Debrief.

Man Utd nail down their ultimate midfield signing

It’s no secret that Manchester United are in the hunt for at least one new central midfielder in January and, after nailing it down to four options on their radar, TEAMtalk can reveal that Adam Wharton has emerged at the very top of that list.

As revealed by our transfer insider Fraser Fletcher, the name generating the most buzz at Old Trafford when it comes to upgrading Ruben Amorim’s engine room is the Crystal Palace and England star.

The 21-year-old talent has impressed with his composure on the ball and tactical intelligence, drawing comparisons to a young Declan Rice.

Sources close to Man Utd reveal that Wharton is “loved” by Amorim’s staff, who see him as a perfect fit for their system.

However, prising him away from Selhurst Park mid-season won’t come cheap. Palace, buoyed by Wharton’s form in their push for European spots, would demand at least £70million.

In terms of the trio of other names also being monitored by Man Utd transfer chiefs, they include Borussia Dortmund’s Jobe Bellingham, Brighton star Carlos Baleba and FC Porto standout Victor Froholdt.

Tottenham going all in on ‘statement’ Kane return

Tottenham are gearing up for a blockbuster move to bring Harry Kane back to north London next summer, aiming to reunite with their former star striker, TEAMtalk can reveal.

The 32-year-old England captain, currently at Bayern Munich, is eager to return to the Premier League to chase Alan Shearer’s all-time scoring record of 260 goals. Kane, with 213 Premier League goals, believes he can surpass the milestone with a few productive seasons at Tottenham.

Sources close to the club indicate that Tottenham’s owners, ENIC, are prepared to break the bank to secure Kane’s signature, covering his hefty release clause and matching his substantial wages.

The move is seen as a ‘statement of intent’ from the Lewis family, who are keen to deliver a marquee signing to boost Spurs’ ambitions under Thomas Frank. The Danish manager has revitalised the squad, and Kane’s return could propel Tottenham into serious contention for silverware.

Spurs are not the only interested suitor, though, with Man Utd also one to watch when it comes to Kane’s future. However, their chances hinge on them once again showing they are capable of challenging at the top end of the table, following their struggles under Erik ten Hag and now Ruben Amorim.

DON’T MISS ➡️ Five Fabio Paratici priorities after Tottenham return confirmed: Left-wing conundrum; Harry Kane return?

Chelsea hopes grow over elite keeper signing

Chelsea are growing in hope that goalkeeper Mike Maignan will not agree a new contract with AC Milan, sources have revealed to TEAMtalk’s Dean Jones.

Discussions remain open between Maignan’s representatives and Milan officials as both sides attempt to determine whether an agreement can be reached for him to extend his stay at San Siro. While manager Max Allegri is happy with the French international, Milan are understood to have financial limits on what they can offer in a new deal, which could open the door for a potential exit.

At the same time, Milan are believed to be quietly exploring alternative goalkeeping options in case Maignan does not commit his future to the club. That has encouraged Chelsea, who have identified him as their number one target to give them new resolve.

A move in the current season remains unlikely but Chelsea are adopting a patient strategy as they monitor developments in Italy. Club sources are optimistic that if Maignan does decide against renewing with Milan, they will be well placed to make a serious move when the door opens.

Rangers close on Muscat / LaLiga duo scrap for Munoz / Raskin wanted by Spurs and more…

As TEAMtalk have been right on top of from the very start, thanks to our insider Fraser Fletcher, Rangers are now finalising the appointment of Kevin Muscat as their new head coach, with negotiations nearing completion for the former Ibrox star to take charge.

Crystal Palace defender Daniel Munoz has emerged as a prime target for LaLiga heavyweights Barcelona and Atlético Madrid, with sources confirming both clubs are “huge fans” of the Colombia international.

Manchester United are once again expected to block Kobbie Mainoo from leaving the club in January, if he seeks a move. The midfielder requested a loan switch in the summer and his camp are understood to have fielded roughly a DOZEN enquiries.

Tottenham are the latest club to express interest in signing Rangers and Belgium ace Nico Raskin, sources have revealed to us, and with the cost of a potential move likely to set a new transfer record at Ibrox.

In a bold move to solidify their squad and send a clear message to competitors worldwide, Chelsea are gearing up for negotiations to extend and enhance the contract of Ecuadorian midfielder Moises Caicedo.

West Ham are preparing to move for a younger striker in January as they look to inject fresh energy into their attack, sources have revealed to us.

Sunderland are to give careful consideration to the idea of re-signing Chelsea striker Marc Guiu in January, with the Wearsiders not entirely convinced and with some feeling they should prioritise elsewhere, sources can confirm.

Tottenham Hotspur are back in Premier League action on Sunday, when they welcome Aston Villa to north London, in a game where TEAMtalk predicts Thomas Frank makes two changes and also an unpopular positional switch for one star.

Back from the latest international break, Spurs are facing a Villa side who have started to hit their stride after a difficult start to the new campaign, in what should be an entertaining match-up.

Frank’s men managed to get back to winning ways as they triumphed 2-1 at Leeds United last time out, courtesy of goals from Mathys Tel and Mohammed Kudus.

However, the former looks set to return to the bench for the clash with Unai Emery’s in-form side, as the Tottenham boss picks what is arguably his strongest available side for what will be a difficult contest.

Indeed, we believe that Frank will make two changes from that side that won at Elland Road, and also make an unpopular positional move that will bolster his engine room.

Strong spine to defeat Villa

One thing you do need to compete with Aston Villa is to be strong through the middle of your team, and with Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven in fine form that at least gives Tottenham a strong base to build from.

In the home defeat to Bournemouth and the fortunate draw with Wolves, Spurs were outnumbered and outworked in the middle of the park, and it would be a huge mistake if Frank does not strengthen that area against a Villa side that don’t play with too much width.

Indeed, they will likely have Lamare Bogarde and Boubacar Kamara sitting in front of their back four, assuming Youri Tielemans is not passed fit. In front of them, narrow once again, will be John McGinn and Morgan Rogers.

That overload will potentially cause big problems and is why Simons will struggle to impact the game centrally, with Lucas Bergvall filling in but playing a bit deeper than a normal No.10 role.

DON’T MISS ➡️ Five Fabio Paratici priorities after Tottenham return confirmed: Left-wing conundrum; Harry Kane return?

Simons shifted out left again

With the need to man up with Villa centrally, Simons will almost certainly start wide left – especially in the absence of a genuine threat in that position, as £25m signing Wilson Odobert misses out.

It’s not his best position, but he can still have a big effect on the game in a role in which he should at least get a bit more space and time to create.

Up front, £35m Tel drops to the bench to be replaced by Richarlison after the Brazilian was rested against Leeds, over fears he has already been called upon too much this season due to injuries to Dominic Solanke and Randal Kolo Muani.

There is a chance, however, that the latter could be back on the bench against Villa after playing in a behind-closed-doors practice match during the international break.

Latest Tottenham news

First up, the rumour mill has started working in overdrive after it emerged that major Tottenham transfer target Harry Gray’s profile on Instagram has been stripped of his association with Leeds United.

Elsewhere, TEAMtalk have recently brought you reports that Tottenham boss Thomas Frank is not completely happy with the goalkeeping situation at the club, but we have looked at why moving on from current No.1 Guglielmo Vicario could end up being a major mistake.

And finally, Spurs are interested in signing Dusan Vlahovic following the return of Fabio Paratici, sources have told TEAMtalk, but Chelsea, too, are keen on the Juventus and Serbia international as they spy a bargain deal.

The rumour mill has started working in overdrive after it emerged that major Tottenham Hotspur transfer target Harry Gray’s profile on Instagram has been stripped of his association with Leeds United.

Gray, who is the younger brother of Spurs midfielder Archie Gray, has been heavily linked with a switch to north London, given that he has yet to pen his first professional contract at Elland Road.

The 17-year-old forward is incredibly highly thought of at Leeds and made his senior debut for the club last season in a Championship clash with Stoke City.

Gray has continued his progress for the club’s Under-21s this term, scoring four goals in four games while also making the bench for the recent Premier League clash against Wolves.

However, Tottenham have been watching the player’s progress with interest, amid reports they are ready to beat Leeds to Gray penning that first pro contract.

And while Whites boss Daniel Farke revealed on Thursday that he expects “very positive news in the future” when it comes to one of the club’s top young talents, Gray might just have thrown a spanner in the works.

The teenager has hinted at a potential Leeds exit by blanking his profile image on Instagram, where he has nearly 60,000 followers, while his bio has also been wiped.

Whether there is some kidology at play, knowing full well how those actions would potentially spark speculation over his future, remains to be seen – but it’s certainly something to watch.

Signing another Gray brother would certainly be a major coup for Tottenham, however, with Thomas Frank already a massive fan of Archie and almost certain to give him the chance to stake of claim for a regular run in the side at some point this season.

The Gray family dynasty at Leeds

➡️ The Gray connection with Leeds first began way back in 1964 when Eddie Gray, a then unknown teenager from Glasgow, signed for the Whites. He made his debut for the club on New Year’s Day in 1966, while just 18. Eddie went on to make 577 appearances for Leeds, where he was a one-club man, and ending his playing career in the 1983/84 season, some 18 years later.

➡️ Eddie Gray’s brother, Frank, also played for Leeds United, though to lesser success than Eddie. Frank, or Francis to give him his birth name, played for Leeds across two spells (from 1972 to 1979 and then from 1981 to 1985).

➡️ Frank Gray’s son, Andy – the father of Archie and Harry Gray – also played for Leeds. Debuting at Leeds in 1995 and playing in the 1996 League Cup final, Gray would later go on to play for Scotland, as well as representing Nottingham Forest and Sunderland in the Premier League.

➡️ Archie Gray debuted for Leeds in August 2023 while just 17, though he had been named on the bench as a 15-year-old back in December 2021. He made 52 appearances for the Whites before leaving in a £40m deal for Spurs on 2 July, 2024.

➡️ Harry Gray made his debut for Leeds as an 86th-minute substitute for Brendan Aaronson in a 6–0 Championship league win over Stoke City on 21 April 2025. He was also included in the England squad for the 2025 UEFA European Under-17 Championship.

Latest Tottenham news

First up, Tottenham are interested in signing Dusan Vlahovic following the return of Fabio Paratici, sources have told TEAMtalk, but Chelsea, too, are keen on the Juventus and Serbia international as they spy a bargain deal.

Elsewhere, Spurs are gearing up for a blockbuster move to bring Harry Kane back to north London next summer, aiming to reunite with their former star striker, TEAMtalk can reveal.

TEAMtalk have recently brought you reports that Tottenham Hotspur boss Thomas Frank is not completely happy with the goalkeeping situation at the club, but we have looked at why moving on from current No.1 Guglielmo Vicario could end up being a major mistake.

Vicario has been the current incumbent between the sticks in north London since his move from Empoli in the summer of 2023, when he replaced the long-serving Hugo Lloris.

While there have been some trials and tribulations along the way, as they are are with many goalkeepers who swap countries, Vicario has largely down a solid job for Tottenham since joining.

However, there have been murmurings from some sections of the Spurs faithful that Frank needs to upgrade the position, with Vicario having made a couple of errors already in the early stages of the new season.

And TEAMtalk can confirm that there is evidence to suggest that Tottenham transfer chiefs Johan Lange and Fabio Paratici are looking into potential alternatives ahead of the new year.

Indeed, we can reveal that Frank is not wholly convinced by Vicario, who is an incredible shot-stopper but struggles with his feet at times, while Antonin Kinsky hasn’t done enough behind the scenes to jettison the Italian out of the starting eleven.

TEAMtalk transfer insider Dean Jones recently gave us an update on the goalkeeping situation at the club, saying: “It will be interesting to discover what the goalkeeper shortlist looks like once it is drawn up and just how under threat Vicario truly is.

“I would love to reveal some names but at this stage it is just a little too early.

“I get the impression they would be willing to wait until the summer to find the right candidate but it is possible someone could come during January.

“I think names will emerge soon, probably by the end of this month. And that will help us understand whether they are looking at genuine competition for the No.1 spot and whether Vicario is in danger.”

Despite calls for change, TEAMtalk have looked behind the stats of Vicario’s season so far and also the intangibles that still make him a great i the No.1 position.

DON’T MISS ➡️ Five Fabio Paratici priorities after Tottenham return confirmed: Left-wing conundrum; Harry Kane return?

Why it’s too early for Tottenham to move on from Vicario

The Italy international has conceded just five goals in the opening seven Premier League outings so far, although it could be argued that his mistakes led to at least two of those opposition strikes.

However, when you dig a little deeper into how he has fared so far this season, it ends up becoming much more than just a test of the eyes.

The 29-year-old currently ranks third in terms of clean sheets this season, with only Nick Pope (5) and David Raya (4) recording more than Vicario’s three.

The Italian is also high up the list for save percentage, behind only Raya, who has 83.3%, while Vicario sits second with 82.8%.

Vicario is actually top for goals prevented, as he quite often makes big saves from sure goalscoring chances, with the Italian preventing 2.9 goals through his incredible shot-stopping abilities.

When you also factor in that Vicario is in Frank’s senior leadership team at the club, alongside the likes of Cristian Romero, Ben Davies, James Maddison and Micky van de Ven, and his importance should not be underplayed.

In what is a fairly quiet Tottenham team on the pitch, Vicario is also the voice that is normally the loudest – constantly badgering his players to make sure they are in the right positions and once again highlighting his value to Frank’s set-up.

Yes, it’s a very fair comment that he does not always look comfortable with the ball at his feet, but Frank is not asking him to try and play out from the back anything like as much as Ange Postecoglou did.

Indeed, the Dane is trying to play more into Vicario’s strengths, as he is with all his players early into his reign, and there is an expectation that Vicario will improve as Tottenham improve under Frank going forward.

With that in mind, the club need to look to spend their new cash injection from majority owners Enic on other areas of the pitch that are much more in need of potential upgrades – namely the left wing and in central midfield.

Latest Tottenham news: Vlahovic links; Kane return chances

First up, Tottenham are interested in signing Dusan Vlahovic following the return of Fabio Paratici, sources have told TEAMtalk, but Chelsea, too, are keen on the Juventus and Serbia international as they spy a bargain deal.

Elsewhere, Spurs are gearing up for a blockbuster move to bring Harry Kane back to north London next summer, aiming to reunite with their former star striker, TEAMtalk can reveal.

And finally, Tottenham are reportedly not willing to give up on signing Arda Guler and are one of the ‘obvious options’ to sign the Real Madrid playmaker should he choose to leave, and the Turkey star’s performance during the international break underlines why.

Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing Dusan Vlahovic following the return of Fabio Paratici, sources have told TEAMtalk, but Chelsea, too, are keen on the Juventus and Serbia international as they spy a bargain deal.

Vlahovic is out of contract at Juventus at the end of the season, and it appears unlikely that the striker will sign a new deal with the Italian club. The Serbia international joined Juventus from Fiorentina in January 2022, with Sky Sports reporting at the time that Tottenham were among the clubs interested in him at the time.

Sources have told TEAMtalk’s transfer insider, Dean Jones, that Tottenham are still keen, especially with Paratici returning to the north London outfit as the co-sporting director of last season’s Europa League winners.

Vlahovic is struggling to get into the Juventus starting line-up under Igor Tudor, making two starts in Serie A so far this season.

However, the 25-year-old has made an impact as a substitute, with the striker scoring four goals and giving one assist in eight matches in all competitions for the Bianconeri so far this campaign.

Vlahovic’s situation has drawn interest from Chelsea, too, with Jones revealing that the London club’s co-owner Todd Boehly is eyeing bargain signings.

Jones said: “The news that Paratici is returning to Spurs in a full-time capacity will undoubtedly spark talk about them going for Vlahovic, because of the Juve links.

“I do believe that Spurs have an interest, and the idea of adding him to their attack is a pretty exciting prospect.

“I have reservations about it actually happening, though, even if there is a lot of intent for top-level names to come in next year.

“Look out for Chelsea, as one of the competitors. I have been told they are very much being kept in the loop over his next move as they want another forward to come in and he could be ideal for the summer.

“Big-name, free agents is very much something they seem to be checking out at the moment.”

IN DEPTH ➡️ Five Fabio Paratici priorities after Tottenham return confirmed: Left-wing conundrum; Harry Kane return?

Newcastle and West Ham also want Dusan Vlahovic – sources

Tottenham and Chelsea are not the only clubs from the Premier League that are keen on Vlahovic.

Sources have told TEAMtalk that Newcastle United and West Ham United, too, are interested in a deal for Vlahovic.

Newcastle signed Yoane Wissa and Nick Woltemade in the summer of 2025, but the former has had injury problems.

The Magpies, who won the Carabao Cup last season and are aiming to finish in the Premier League top four in the 2025/26 campaign, would be willing to make a move for a striker of Vlahovic’s calibre.

As for West Ham, the Hammers are on the hunt for a new striker, with the London club’s chiefs concerned about their lack of depth in attack.

West Ham have an interest in Endrick, but it may not be possible for the Hammers to convince Real Madrid to do a loan deal for the Brazil international striker in the January transfer window.

Bayern Munich have also been linked with Vlahovic, with the defending Bundesliga champions looking at the Serbian star as a striker who could play alongside Harry Kane in attack as well as replace him in the long run.

Bild journalist Christian Falk told CF Bayern Insider on October 10: “It is TRUE: Dusan Vlahovic likes Bayern Munich. The striker wanted to go to Bayern Munich already when he was playing for Fiorentina. At this time, he was too expensive for Bayern Munich – they would have ended up paying €80m [£69.7m].

“But now, he’s set to become a free agent in the summer, and Juventus don’t want to give him a new contract!

“I heard he’s earning €9m [£7.8m] a year (net), which is a lot of money for the Turin-based club. It would also be a lot of money for Bayern, but, as you see, he won’t cost a transfer fee!

“For Nicolas Jackson, for instance, FC Bayern would have to trigger a release clause of over €60m [£52.2m] to keep the Chelsea man beyond his loan spell. This is a lot of money, and Bayern have already committed €16.5m [£14.3m] in a loan fee.

“Juventus are reportedly interested in selling Vlahovic in the winter. Calciomercato, I believe, reported that the price tag will be €15m [£13m]. This is a cheap option!

“In the summer, of course, it’s even cheaper, as he’ll be a free agent. This could be an option, as Vincent Kompany isn’t just searching for a Harry Kane successor; he can imagine playing with two strikers, as he already tried against Hoffenheim and Pafos, playing Nicolas Jackson up front and Kane behind as a number 10.

“The Englishman is doing very, very well in this position, and you can see that he likes it. He drops back and works for the defence.

“So this would be a good option for Bayern, and Vlahovic is definitely a player who can play in front of Harry Kane.”

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Latest Tottenham news: Harry Kane pursuit, Rangers raid

Vlahovic is not the only striker that Tottenham are interested in signing in 2026.

Sources have told TEAMtalk’s transfer correspondent, Fraser Fletcher, that Tottenham are ready to break the bank for Harry Kane and have two advantages over Manchester United in the race for the Bayern Munich and England international striker.

A Real Madrid playmaker that Tottenham are scouting has been described as ‘breathtaking’ for his performances during the international break.

And finally, TEAMtalk understands that Tottenham are in the race for a Rangers star.

Tottenham Hotspur have confirmed the return of Fabio Paratici as sporting director alongside Johan Lange – and the pair already have a lot to get stuck into.

Paratici previously served Spurs as their director of football between June 2021 and April 2023, before stepping aside because of a FIFA ban. Now free to be employed by the club again, after acting as a consultant in recent months, the Italian is taking up joint responsibilities with Lange as part of an evolving setup under CEO Vinai Venkatesham.

During his past spell, Paratici’s influence extended to decisions such as the appointment of Antonio Conte and the signings of players like Cristian Romero, Dejan Kulusevski and Pedro Porro.

But, with Venkatesham confirming his main focuses will be on transfers, recruitment and loans – with Lange looking over the academy, scouting and data, but the duo making all decisions jointly – what will be on the agenda this time around?

Solve left-wing conundrum

The main position currently viewed as a problem for Thomas Frank to fill is the left wing. The Spurs boss has limited natural options there, with most of their attacking midfielders being better on the other flank or in a central role behind the striker.

Brennan Johnson played more often on the right wing last season and recent signing Xavi Simons is more of a no.10, for example, although either may have to be called upon to ease the burden on Wilson Odobert.

If Tottenham are willing to spend in January, they should be in the market for a left winger with better expertise. It’ll be up to Paratici to identify the best solutions.

Antoine Semenyo is one target with definite admirers in north London, but sources state Tottenham want to assess the competition for the Bournemouth forward before committing to a bid as his price tag rises.

Paratici may have to cast his net farther and wider for a more gettable left winger, but it’s not a task he’ll be able to sit on for too long. Intervening in January could be crucial to Spurs’ momentum for the second half of the season.

DIVE DEEPER 👉 Ranking FIVE dazzling Tottenham left wing January targets: Dream signing to Brazilian sensation

Work on Harry Kane return

A few months after Paratici’s resignation from Tottenham, there was the end of another era: Harry Kane’s spell as a Spurs player.

In August 2023, Kane was sold to Bayern Munich in a record deal for the Bundesliga. From Spurs’ perspective, it felt like more of a see-you-later than a goodbye.

There is reportedly a clause in Spurs’ favour should Kane ever wish to leave Bayern, although he has just hinted it isn’t on his mind just yet.

“I’m not sure (if I’ll go back), I’m very happy here in Munich,” he told the Daily Mail. “It’s not something I’m thinking about.

“It’ll always be ‘we’ (with Spurs) because I spent my whole life there. I’m a fan of them and will always watch them and see how they’re getting on. They will always be a part of my life for sure but as for now, I’m loving it here.”

Nevertheless, sources insist Spurs are prepared to break the bank to bring Kane back, in a move that could help his chances of reaching the Premier League goalscoring record.

Kane returning for a second spell with Spurs could be a matter of if, or a matter of when. But if they get the slightest hint of it being possible, it’s something the club will feel a duty to work on, regardless of their existing striker options.

The England captain remains one of the best strikers in the world and with Spurs still being in a good position to be his next club, they will want to make the most of it.

Explore permanent Palhinha deal

It was widely seen as a shrewd move by Spurs to bring Joao Palhinha back to the Premier League this summer on a loan deal from Bayern Munich.

Palhinha previously excelled with Fulham in the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons, leading metrics for tackling. However, he didn’t fit in as well for Bayern.

His struggles to cement his place with the Bundesliga giants led to an opportunity for Tottenham, who took him on loan with an option to buy for €30m, which at the current exchange rates is about £26m.

Spurs’ faith seems to be paying off, with Palhinha already pushing the stat leaders for tackles in the Premier League in an effort to restore his well-earned reputation as one of the best defensive midfielders in the division.

A number of factors will come into play, such as Palhinha’s age. He turns 31 next July, so any decision to invest fairly heavily in him would have to be a measured one. But if he continues contributing well, it would be beneficial to keep him around.

Draft goalkeeper shortlist

TEAMtalk’s Dean Jones revealed last week that Tottenham are preparing to enter the market for another goalkeeper who could be the successor to Guglielmo Vicario.

The club are willing to take a patient and considered approach, so Vicario won’t necessarily be under immediate pressure, but ambitions to strengthen across the board could see the 29-year-old usurped.

No names have emerged yet, but Spurs will soon start drafting up a shortlist of top-class goalkeepers to keep an eye on.

Vicario was a decent find from Paratici’s native Italy (albeit in the summer directly after he initially stepped down). But can Spurs now find a proven, top-class successor?

Antonin Kinsky is waiting for his turn, but Paratici may want to go for a more established keeper next summer.

Make Richarlison decision

Spurs have a few players out of contract in 2026, whose fates they will need to decide before the end of the season. Equally, they need to plan ahead with players out of contract in 2027, since next year will be the time for them to decide whether to offer new deals or sell.

Dane Scarlett is one, but the more high-profile Spurs player approaching the last 18 months of his contract is Richarlison.

The Brazil forward has endured mixed fortunes since his 2022 move from Everton, with the high point being his second season, in which he hit double figures of goals. He had a low bar to surpass, though, after only scoring once in the Premier League in his first season.

It’s recently emerged that Richarlison attracted interest from MLS side Orlando City in the summer, while there are reports of a potential sale in January.

But the 28-year-old has started this season reasonably well, with three goals from seven games in the Premier League. Will it be enough to retain his place in Spurs’ plans? Possibly not, but it’s now over to Paratici to weigh up and get the timing of his potential exit right.

Tottenham Hotspur are gearing up for a blockbuster move to bring Harry Kane back to north London next summer, aiming to reunite with their former star striker, TEAMtalk can reveal.

The 32-year-old England captain, currently at Bayern Munich, is eager to return to the Premier League to chase Alan Shearer’s all-time scoring record of 260 goals. Kane, with 213 Premier League goals, believes he can surpass the milestone with a few productive seasons at Tottenham.

Sources close to the club indicate that Tottenham’s owners, ENIC, are prepared to break the bank to secure Kane’s signature, covering his hefty release clause and matching his substantial wages.

The move is seen as a statement of intent from the Lewis family, who are keen to deliver a marquee signing to boost Spurs’ ambitions under Thomas Frank. The Danish manager has revitalised the squad, and Kane’s return could propel Tottenham into serious contention for silverware.

Manchester United are also in the race for Kane, viewing him as a key piece in their rebuilding project. However, their chances hinge on improving their current mid-table position in the Premier League.

Without a strong league standing, United may struggle to convince Kane, who prioritises regular silverware, European football and a platform to cement his legacy.

Bayern Munich, where Kane has thrived since his 2023 move, scoring prolifically in the Bundesliga, are desperate to keep their talisman.

The German giants acknowledge his ambition to return to England one day but hope to extend his stay with promises of more trophies. Kane’s emotional connection to Spurs, where he rose through the academy, could tip the scales in Tottenham’s favour.

As the 2026 transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Kane’s decision. A return to Spurs could see him etch his name in Premier League history, while reigniting the passion of the Tottenham faithful. Bayern hope he will stay but the goalscoring record is too tempting for him to turn down.

United are long-term admirers of Kane and tried to sign him in the summer of 2023, but pulled out of the race due to the huge costs involved.

Man Utd remain one of the biggest and most attractive clubs in the world, though Spurs are currently in pole position to land the goal machine.

Kane is concerned about United’s recent struggles and will also find it tough to reject an emotional return to Spurs, factors that give Frank’s side the edge.

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Tottenham in strong position to re-sign Harry Kane

TEAMtalk’s Dean Jones revealed on September 23 that Kane is open to rejoining Spurs, though he wants them to be playing in the Champions League.

Kane has also been linked with Real Madrid, but TEAMtalk has explained why that move is extremely unlikely to happen.

Returning to United, it will be a major blow for them to lose out on Kane, however other strikers are on their radar.

A report has suggested Al-Qadsiah and Italy ace Mateo Retegui is on their shortlist. How much United could offer for Retegui has also been revealed.

Plus, Ruben Amorim’s side have reactivated their pursuit of a lethal Premier League frontman.

Such links put question marks over United’s summer deal to bring Benjamin Sesko to Old Trafford. United spent £74m on Sesko but one pundit has already urged them to sign a more experienced No 9 to help him out.

Spurs in for Real Madrid star; latest on wantaway United player

Meanwhile, Spurs have reportedly doubled down on a jaw-dropping signing from Real Madrid.

If they miss out on Kane, then Spurs could enter talks for a top Serie A striker instead. Such a transfer would put Randal Kolo Muani’s future at the club in further doubt.

Elsewhere, United have reached a decision on whether to allow midfielder Kobbie Mainoo to leave in January after his failed summer exit.

It’s being reported that Tottenham Hotspur are already considering moving on from Randal Kolo Muani, with feelers already put out over a deal for a 114-goal striker ahead of the January transfer window.

Bar a couple of blips, Spurs have started the new campaign strongly under Thomas Frank as they sit third in the Premier League table and have taken four points from their opening two Champions League outings.

However, the No.9 position has been a problem in the early part of the season, with the notoriously injury-prone Richarlison having been the only fit central striker for a number of weeks.

That has led to Frank having to use Mathys Tel as the alternative to the Brazilian, and that has given Tottenham a lack of a focal point at some junctures in games.

The absence of loan signing Kolo Muani has been a particular blow, with big things expected of the France international after his deadline day switch from PSG.

Indeed, Kolo Muani has only made one cameo appearance from the bench so far, having suffered a dead leg in training, although he could be back this weekend against Aston Villa.

Despite that, a report from Spain claims that Juventus and Serbia frontman Dusan Vlahovic could be on his way to north London in the new year.

Spanish daily Quotidiano Sportivo claims that Vlahovic’s representatives have previously offered the striker to Tottenham, with a fresh update revealing how the north London club are ready to act on that approach.

Despite scoring four times for Juve so far this season, Vlahovic’s future remains up in the air, with the 25-year-old no closer to signing a new contract in Turin as his current deal ticks down to the summer.

That has led to his agent pushing hard to try and find a new home for his client, with Tottenham and London rivals Chelsea both firmly in the mix for his signature.

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Kolo Muani still keen on Juventus return

Quotidiano Sportivo adds that Vlahovic is now being lined up as a potential replacement for Kolo Muani, especially as there is no option or obligation to buy when it comes to the agreement with PSG.

Indeed, Kolo Muani remains interested in a return to Juventus, where he impressed during a temporary stint in the second half of last season.

As for Vlahovic, his wage demands, when it comes to a new deal in Turin, are currently proving too high – although that is not expected to be a problem in north London.

Indeed, Spurs are actively moving towards handing out more lucrative deals to their top players and potential new signings, especially after the £100million injection of capital from majority owners Enic.

As for whether or not Vlahovic would be an upgrade on Kolo Muani, it’s very hard to tell given that neither player has spent time in English football – bar the latter’s 13-minute cameo for Spurs, and even that was in the Champions League.

Vlahovic is arguably the bigger goal threat of the two, however, and has been earmarked as a player whose game suits the Premier League for a number of years.

Latest Tottenham news: Huge Real Madrid raid; midfield signing exclusive

First up, Tottenham are reportedly ready to do ‘whatever it takes’ to sign an incredible LaLiga talent in the January window, with TEAMtalk analysing how that could be potential bad news for summer signing Xavi Simons.

Elsewhere, Spurs are the latest club to express interest in signing Rangers and Belgium ace Nico Raskin, sources have revealed to TEAMtalk, and with the cost of a potential move likely to set a new transfer record at Ibrox.

And finally, Tottenham want to make a signing in a surprise position in 2026 and TEAMtalk can shed light on what this means for the star who’ll potentially be replaced.