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Tottenham Hotspur’s chances of convincing Xabi Alonso to replace Thomas Frank as the manager following his exit from Real Madrid have been analysed in the Spanish press, which has also pondered on whether the former Liverpool midfielder could end up replacing Arne Slot at Anfield or take over as the Manchester United boss next summer.

Alonso and Real Madrid parted ways on Monday, less than 24 hours after Los Blancos lost the final of the Spanish Super Cup to bitter rivals Barcelona. Since then, there has been speculation linking Alonso with Tottenham, Liverpool, Manchester City and even Manchester United.

TEAMtalk’s transfer correspondent, Fraser Fletcher, reported on January 12 that Tottenham like Alonso and might try for the former Bayer Leverkusen manager should they decide to sack Thomas Frank.

Frank is in danger of losing his managerial role at Tottenham, with the team 14th in the Premier League table and already knocked out of the FA Cup.

Sources have told us that Liverpool remain keen admirers of Alonso, having first tried to hire him in 2024 when Jurgen Klopp announced his decision to step down.

We understand that should Liverpool manager Arne Slot fail to turn things around, then the defending Premier League champions could restart talks with Alonso.

The Independent journalist Miguel Delaney reported this week that a source at a major European club has told him that Man Utd should appoint Alonso.

Delaney revealed on Independent Sport’s YouTube channel: “Someone at another major club, another Super League club said: Well, I mean this is the sort of appointment that Manchester United should be immediately looking towards because as they put it, he is an Arne Slot/Mikel Arteta level coach who has the potential to be an elite coach.”

AS, a Real Madrid-leaning Spanish publication, has claimed that Tottenham and Man Utd would find it tough to convince Alonso to take over, noting his chances of moving to Liverpool.

The report has stated: ‘Three major clubs value Xabi above average: Liverpool, Bayern Munich, and Manchester City.

‘All three clubs currently have managers, but they won’t hesitate to pursue him if the opportunity arises.

‘Slot’s future is the most uncertain, Guardiola’s continued tenure has a constant question mark, and perhaps Kompany is the most secure at the moment.’

AS added: ‘It seems more difficult for clubs like Tottenham and United, who live with constant bench instability, to convince Xabi, although they would obviously like to.’

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Xabi Alonso backed to return to management despite Real Madrid failure

Alonso was appointed the Madrid manager only at the end of last season, and it must come as a huge blow to the Spaniard that he could not succeed at Estadio Bernabeu and had to leave midway through the campaign.

However, the former Bayer boss has been backed to get back into management by Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, while ex-Liverpool and Madrid star Steve McManaman believes that he could end up at Anfield.

McManaman told TNT Sports: “Certain people, depending on who you listen to, have already started talking about some of their form. That will continue if Liverpool fail to show how good they are.

“Life as a football manager, you’re 90 minutes away from the pressure coming back on your shoulders and the fact that Xabi is now available, and his history at the club, will suggest that there’s always going to be pressure.

“But Xabi will be wanted by a number of his clubs that he’s worked as well, so I wouldn’t necessarily take it as pressure for Arne Slot because he puts pressure on himself anyway.”

McManaman added: “Xabi had a clause in his contract at Leverkusen that he could talk to a lot of his old, ex-teams, that he played for – and Manchester City. That was public knowledge.

“So, there must be a desire for him, in his mind, that he would like to manage here. But I don’t think that should have any bearing on the current manager.

“He’s a young man, Xabi. He’ll have another 25 years in the business if he wants to, so it could be right down the line.”

Flick said: “This is football, and it’s not my business.

“What I can say is that I have a good relationship with Xabi; we met in Leverkusen when I was with the national team and have stayed in touch.

“It’s football, and I wish him all the best. I’m sure he’ll have a great project soon for himself and his coaching staff.

“It’s football, and we have to move on, but he’s a great coach and has a bright future.”

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Latest Tottenham transfer news: Winger move fails, shock Liverpool links

Meanwhile, our transfer insider, Graeme Bailey, has reported that Tottenham have cooled interest in a Bournemouth star, but Manchester United and Manchester City are still in.

Tottenham have failed with a move for a winger who is in huge demand, with Liverpool and Manchester United also keen on him.

Conor Gallagher isn’t the only signing Tottenham are wrapping up, and two transfer insiders have revealed what else Thomas Frank’s side could have up their sleeves before the window closes.

Stuck in the bottom half of the Premier League table again, Tottenham and their head coach Frank have faced plenty of criticism this season. The current transfer window is more important to them than most sides of a similar stature, giving them a chance to bolster their squad to climb back up the table.

A major reinforcement is on the way in the shape of former Chelsea midfielder Gallagher, who has opted for a London return with Spurs rather than going to Aston Villa from Atletico Madrid.

But midfield isn’t the only position Spurs are short in – and some have even doubted if Gallagher alone will be enough to give them what they need there.

With their work cut out to become competitive again, Tottenham will be turning their attention to what’s next after Gallagher – a subject TEAMtalk’s Dean Jones and Graeme Bailey have shed some light on after exploring how Spurs won that particular battle.

“Aston Villa had definitely started to get ahead on that one,” Jones said, speaking on TEAMtalk’s latest Facebook live broadcast. “When I reported the Gallagher story to Tottenham, I wasn’t convinced they were going to win the race, to be honest with you. But I think they couldn’t really face losing out on another one.

“There is going to be more to come,” he promised.

“I like Conor Gallagher as a player,” Bailey replied. “I think it’s a good signing whoever got him. I’m slightly surprised Manchester United didn’t make a bigger push for him.

“With Thomas Frank and his system, we don’t know what he’s going to play. He doesn’t know what his best XI is. He clearly thinks there’s space for him. It’s clearly not going to be a #6, because he’s got Palhinha in there.

“Is it going to impact on Bergvall and Archie Gray going forward, especially in the short term? Possibly, but he’s a class act, he improves Tottenham’s XI – not massively, but I do think he improves the XI.

“In terms of him rebuilding his England career and getting in the World Cup squad, I think he’d have been better off choosing Villa at this moment in time. I think he would have had a better chance feeding Morgan Rogers for the rest of the season.”

However, financial factors may have helped sway Gallagher towards Tottenham.

“Do you think it’s about money, because Tottenham have had to pay £35m for Conor Gallagher,” Jones offered. “I don’t know exactly what the wage sums are, but I know that the contract at Atletico Madrid was a big one; if he’d have met his bonuses (which to be fair he probably didn’t do) it’d have been worth about £200,000-a-week.

“Spurs are making a big outlay here. I know the financial terms weren’t going to be met by Aston Villa, theirs was more of a sporting project sell.

“Obviously, on top of that, Conor Gallagher is from Surrey, was playing for Chelsea his whole life, his family are all Chelsea fans, so it’ll be interesting to see what they make of his transfer to Tottenham.

“But maybe the finances come into it. Tottenham fans don’t seem to be wholly convinced that Conor Gallagher is necessarily the answer. Conor Gallagher brings a lot of energy, he’ll press high, he’s very technically astute, he’ll follow instructions well and he’s Premier League proven. I think Conor Gallagher is a good signing for Tottenham, but they need to do more.

“I think at the weekend we saw for the first time Palhinha playing how he used to play at Fulham. If you get players playing the roles that they’re actually suited to, Tottenham should have a good team. That’s down to Thomas Frank now to prove that he can do it.

“I was told that he’s being allowed to continue. I’m told that he’s not on the verge of losing his job at Tottenham, but obviously you can’t keep losing games, so it’ll be interesting to see now who comes into that attacking line, because there’s no doubt that they are going to sign someone who’s an attacking threat.”

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Tottenham need Johnson replacement in attack

Spurs’ need for new attackers has only been amplified by their decision to sell Brennan Johnson to Crystal Palace earlier this month, as Bailey addressed.

“Clearly I think they are missing something in that forward line,” he said. “I think Gallagher does improve the team. I’m coming round to the idea that I don’t think Thomas Frank really suits this squad, so I think they are going to back him. They were never really going to get rid of him this month, in my opinion and from what we’re hearing.

“Obviously if they go and lose to West Ham this month, it’s a results-based business. So while we can report that Tottenham aren’t planning it, in the Premier League you’re only a couple of results away from losing your job at times. I don’t think he’s quite there yet, but he does have to come up with something.

“That left side’s still an issue for them. It’s a bit strange for me that they let Brennan Johnson go without a plan in place, because I still think he had a lot to offer and they’ve weakened.

“They want to bolster those attacking options. Kulusevski’s been out for longer than they thought he would be, and he’s been a massive loss for them this season.

“With Solanke back now, they will look for that left winger role. We’ll see what they come up with. You have to presume they’ve got something in mind because allowing Johnson to go and not having a plan would seem a bit short-sighted.”

As for who fills the void, Jones shared some names of interest.

“I think they want somebody that perhaps can play on both sides, maybe even across the three positions,” he explained. “Maghnes Akliouche from Monaco is undoubtedly someone that they like. They’ve been scouting him regularly.

“Christos Tzolis is definitely a target. They’ve looked at a few Man City players; Oscar Bobb is probably the one Man City player that could be up for grabs. I’m not convinced that that’s where they’re turning right now.

“I’ve heard whispers about Karim Adeyemi being offered to them. I think he’s going to be pricey and I don’t know whether he’s exactly the right fit for what they want.”

Bailey replied: “They’ve just been down that route with Kolo Muani and Tel. I’m not saying they’ve been disasters, they haven’t, but it hasn’t quite worked out for them.

“An Akliouche or a Tzolis makes so much sense in the long term.”

Jones confirmed: “That is what they’re trying to do. They’re trying to find that mix now of players with a high ceiling but they do want players who are a little bit proven. With Gallagher, that’s exactly what you’ve got.”

More positions up for strengthening amid defensive dilemma

Away from the attack, Spurs also have some thinking to do about their defence, with Santos left-back Souza also set to sign but a complicated decision needed about their centre-back options as well.

“Obviously they’ve got Souza in, so that’s a left-sided defender ticked off,” Jones explained. “They’re getting Conor Gallagher through the door, which is a central midfielder ticked off. We know that they want a wide attacker, so that would be one. Goalkeeper?”

“Not in January, I don’t think,” Bailey replied. “I think they’ll do it in the summer. As we know, they’re working on players, the likes of Verbruggen, plenty of players on the continent.

“As for Gallagher, he’s probably going to be the highest-paid player at the club now, just ahead of Romero, so that is a consideration as well.

“Obviously the centre-half thing, they still haven’t solved that yet. We expect Dragusin to go. I think they’re in a bit of a quandary with centre-half. Vuskovic, the boy in Germany, is doing so well that they don’t want to block his pathway up. They don’t want to recall him from Hamburg because he’s doing ever so well, but it puts them in a bit of a quandary if they spend big on that, knowing they’ve got a better option in Germany coming back in the summer.

“I think they might try and get by at centre-half, maybe. I think the left winger is the next major one for them.”

Fabio Paratici appears to be going out with a bang at Tottenham Hotspur, following reports that he never wanted Thomas Frank as the club’s manager when the Dane was announced over the summer.

The north London outfit turned to the former Brentford chief after parting company with Europa League-winning boss Ange Postecoglou at the end of last season.

After a bright start to life at Tottenham, in which Frank lost just one of his first 10 games in charge, one win in seven has heaped pressure on the 52-year-old. Indeed, Spurs have now dropped to 14th in the table, with fan unrest also growing.

Sporting director Paratici is set for a short-lived return to the club, with reports claiming that Saturday’s FA Cup loss to Aston Villa could have been the final game in his role.

The Italian is being lined up for a similar position at Fiorentina but now looks set to see out the final weeks of the winter transfer window, with Tottenham currently closing in on deals for Conor Gallagher and Brazilian left-back Souza.

Having been forced to resign in 2023 after he was given a 30-month ban by FIFA, Paratici returned to the Tottenham fold in October but now looks set for an exit again just three months later.

And with calls for Frank’s head growing louder, a report from The Athletic has revealed that Paratici never believed that Frank was the right man for Tottenham in the first place.

The report goes on to state that Paratici instead wanted to make an appointment of his own, even though he was not officially back at the club at the time Frank came in. There is no mention over who that might have been, though.

It is, however, known that Paratici is keen on former Juventus coach Igor Tudor to replace Frank as interim boss, should the Dane actually be shown the door.

Our sources, meanwhile, can reveal that Spurs have identified three exciting Frank replacements as the pressure intensifies on his job ahead of Saturday’s huge London derby clash with West Ham.

Indeed, there is a feeling that if Frank loses that, then he could well be gone.

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More Tottenham news: Adeyemi enquiry; Diomande hijack

Tottenham are being made aware of the situation surrounding Borussia Dortmund star Karim Adeyemi as they prepare to sign a new attacking option, sources confirm.

Elsewhere, Lucas Paqueta’s camp have turned down interest from Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa in recent weeks, TEAMtalk can reveal.

Tottenham Hotspur are being made aware of the situation surrounding Borussia Dortmund star Karim Adeyemi as they prepare to sign a new attacking option, sources confirm.

However, turning to the 23-year-old would be a surprise move from Spurs, as they already have their top targets established.

The main considerations for this transfer window have been Maghnes Akliouche, Yan Diomande and Christos Tzolis, and it is understood that new explorations around all three have been made since the window opened.

RB Leipzig have since insisted that Diomande will not be available, but Monaco star Akliouche remains a leading candidate. We have reported for several months how Tottenham’s scouting missions around the player have been consistent.

There is a feeling among some that Akliouche will be allowed to leave Monaco soon if the French side can find a replacement.

Meanwhile, Tzolis emerged at the back end of 2025 as a target to seriously consider at Club Brugge. My colleague, Graeme Bailey, revealed in an update on January 3 that the Greek international is a favoured target with high-ranking members of Spurs’ scouting department.

Tottenham also made informal checks on Manchester City attackers Oscar Bobb, Savinho and Omar Marmoush.

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Tottenham mulling over opportunistic move

Spurs are currently closing out a deal for Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher and sources have told us to expect a serious addition in attack before the window closes.

A new name that has begun to be mentioned though is Borussia Dortmund’s Adeyemi. At this stage it is unclear just how realistic a switch might be.

He has been linked with other Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, Manchester United and Liverpool – and Spurs appear to have now been targeted as a potential landing spot if he does aim for a move to England.

Any such move would likely be dependent on timing and the status of Tottenham’s other targets, with Adeyemi viewed more as a situational opportunity than a priority at this stage.

Adeyemi has had a difficult season on and off the field and his future is up in the air – but his quality and game changing ability is clear.

The youngster, who can play as a left or right winger or as a striker, has notched 32 goals and 22 assists in 130 appearances for Dortmund so far.

Adeyemi’s current contract expires in 2027 and the suggestions are that he is keen to take on a new challenge in 2026.

Check out TEAMtalk on Facebook at 5:30pm tonight for a live transfer chat with Dean Jones and Graeme Bailey.

Latest Tottenham news: Frank replacement targets / Gallagher coup explained

Meanwhile, my colleague, Fraser Fletcher, has revealed how Tottenham have begun considering potential replacements for manager Thomas Frank, as he prepares for a potentially make-or-break match against West Ham on Saturday.

Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola, Crystal Palace’s Oliver Glasner, and former boss Mauricio Pochettino are all said to be on the shortlist.

In other news, a report has revealed the three reasons why Tottenham beat Aston Villa to the signing of Conor Gallagher, with the Atletico Madrid midfielder’s arrival set to be announced soon.

Spurs have agreed a deal worth around £35m for Gallagher, who could prove to be a vital addition as they look to bounce back in the second half of the campaign.

After Manchester United’s bid to sign Yan Diomande, Liverpool are now facing a threat from Tottenham Hotspur in their quest to bring the winger to Anfield, with a journalist revealing that Spurs are ready to make an offer for the RB Leipzig winger.

Diomande’s emergence at RB Leipzig has seen Man Utd, Liverpool and Tottenham taking a keen interest in the Ivory Coast international winger. The 19-year-old, who is able to play on either wing, has scored seven goals and given four assists in 16 appearances for Leipzig so far this season.

TEAMtalk’s transfer insider, Graeme Bailey, reported on December 31 that Liverpool, Man Utd and Tottenham are among the clubs keen on Diomande.

While Tottenham were the first Premier League club to send scouts to watch the teenager in action, Liverpool and Man Utd have started to take notice of the winger.

Indeed, Man Utd have reportedly already made a bid for Diomande, with CaughtOffSide reporting that Leipzig are holding out for €100million (£86.9m, $116.4m).

Tottenham are now ready to firm up their interest by making a “big offer” for Diomande, according to journalist Alan Nixon on Patreon on January 13.

Spurs are so keen on Diomande that they are willing to outbid any offer for the Ivorian gem should there be an “auction”.

Nixon wrote: ‘Tottenham are taking on Liverpool in the race for Red Bull Leipzig wing sensation Yan Diomande.

‘Spurs are keen to splash out in this window and could top any offer for the Ivory Coast talent who is just 19.

‘Liverpool have been hovering and see Diomande as a long term capture but Tottenham could make the big offer that lands him now.

‘Diomande has shot to prominence with his speed and skills and Spurs think a buy would work for them now and be an investment too.

‘The auction may take the deal over £40 million but Tottenham are backing Thomas Frank as they go for it in the market.’

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Liverpool also face Bayern Munich threat for Yan Diomande

Tottenham’s determination to sign Diomande will come as a blow for Liverpool, especially after the winger recently publicly revealed his desire to play for the defending Premier League champions, adding that it is also his father’s “dream” that he stars at Anfield.

The winger said in French during a live stream on social media, as relayed by DaveOCOP on X: “I want to play at Anfield, I want to play for Liverpool.

“I’m a big Liverpool fan. My father’s dream is to see me play for Liverpool.”

Liverpool will be further rocked by a German source claiming that Bayern Munich, too, are pressing ahead in their pursuit of the Leipzig winger, although the defending Bundesliga champions’ plan to sign him in the summer of 2026.

Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg wrote on X at 2:09pm on January 13: “FC Bayern definitely want to sign a new winger in summer, preferably for the left side, and this is independent of the upcoming contract extension of Serge Gnabry.

“The current focus is on Yan #Diomande and Said El Mala, depending on their availability and the price in the summer.”

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Latest Liverpool transfer news: Right-back targets, Xabi Alonso ‘preference’

Meanwhile, sources have told our transfer insider, Graeme Bailey, that Liverpool are tracking three potential right-back targets, but there is not going to be any panic signing.

A top journalist has revealed the latest on the futures of Liverpool duo Ibrahima Konate and Mohamed Salah – it would not make pleasant reading for the Anfield faithful.

The future of Radu Dragusin has taken a dramatic twist, with a journalist revealing that Napoli manager Antonio Conte is now interested in signing the Tottenham Hotspur defender despite him having already reached an agreement with AS Roma.

Dragusin has fully recovered from an ACL injury that he suffered in January 2025 and is now fully match fit. However, the defender’s days at Tottenham are numbered, with AS Roma keen on securing his services in the January transfer window.

Roma have already had a loan offer for Dragusin with the option to make the deal permanent next summer turned down, but the Italian club are still determined to sign him.

According to a report published in Il Corriere dello Sport on Tuesday morning, Dragusin is ‘pushing for Roma’.

The Romania international defender is said to have been ‘in contact with Roma for days’ and has ‘already reached an agreement on a contractual basis’.

While Tottenham are willing to sell the 23-year-old this month, last season’s Europa League winners are asking for €20million (£17.3m, $23.3m).

Not only do Roma not want to pay more than €15m (£13m, $17.5m) for Dragusin, but the Italian club want to make a loan deal with an option to buy, subject to certain conditions.

That is because Roma do not want to invest a lot in a player who has only just recovered from a long-term cruciate ligament injury.

There has now been a twist, with Italian journalist Mirko Di Natale reporting on Tuesday afternoon on X that Napoli have ‘enquired’ about Dragusin.

Napoli are now managed by former Tottenham manager Antonio Conte, who won the Scudetto with Gli Azzurri last season and is aiming to clinch the Serie A title in the 2025/26 campaign.

Di Natale, who has over 33,00 followers on X, wrote at 12:23pm on January 13: “#Napoli has recently inquired about the situation regarding Radu #Dragusin.

“#Roma remains the club furthest along, but negotiations with #Tottenham are at a standstill. There’s no agreement on the deal structure (there’s currently no conviction on the loan with option to buy).

“#Lipsia (which is offering #Tottenham the outright purchase) stays in the background.”

Dragusin joined Tottenham from Genoa in January 2024 for £26.7m (€31m, $30.8m), including add-ons.

The Romania international centre-back is under contract at the north London club until the summer of 2030.

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Latest Tottenham transfer news: Mathys Tel exit, Conor Gallagher truth

Meanwhile, the secret reason why Mathys Tel wants to leave Tottenham Hotspur in the January transfer window has been revealed.

Sources have told our transfer insider, Dean Jones, the three reasons why Conor Gallagher has chosen Tottenham over Aston Villa, with the Atletico Madrid midfielder set to undergo a medical with the north London club on Tuesday.

Thomas Frank’s position at Tottenham is increasingly precarious, with his job security hanging in the balance ahead of a crucial fixture against West Ham this weekend, and the club have three potential replacements in mind.

The Danish coach is under intense scrutiny as Spurs navigate an extremely difficult period. They were knocked out of the FA Cup by Aston Villa on Saturday, and have dropped to 14th in the Premier League table.

Frank, who had been a cornerstone of Brentford’s rise from the Championship to an established top-flight presence after taking charge in 2018, had guided the Bees through promotion and several seasons of mid-table stability.

However, his tenure at Tottenham has raised concerns among supporters and within the club hierarchy. A defeat in their upcoming match against West Ham United could significantly escalate the situation, potentially placing Frank at serious risk of dismissal.

According to well-placed sources, a loss to the Hammers would mark a tipping point. Spurs’ form has been inconsistent, and the pressure is building as the team looks to avoid slipping further down the table.

My colleague, Graeme Bailey, revealed on January 11 that Spurs’ CEO Vinai Venkatesham was warned that Frank would be a risky addition by some members of the Tottenham hierarchy.

The board are now split on whether to sack Frank, with crucial days ahead for his future. A loss to a struggling West Ham side could prove to be the final nail in the coffin.

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Tottenham identify THREE potential Frank replacements

In the event of a change, several names have been listed by Spurs as potential successors. Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola is understood to be highly regarded and features among the top candidates.

The Spanish coach has impressed since arriving in the Premier League, instilling an attacking philosophy that has elevated the Cherries’ standing.

Crystal Palace’s Oliver Glasner is also listed by sources, with the Austrian’s experience in high-stakes environments – including leading Palace to FA Cup glory and a Europa League triumph with Eintracht Frankfurt – making him an attractive option for a club seeking stability and progression.

Should the board opt for a short-term solution rather than a permanent appointment mid-season, an interim manager could be installed until the summer.

Among the names circulating in some discussions is Ryan Mason, the former Tottenham Hotspur interim who has experience in English football circles, though his recent managerial stint at West Brom ended prematurely.

Looking further ahead, Mauricio Pochettino has been mentioned as a figure who would be receptive to a return. The Argentine, previously linked with the club in earlier contexts, remains a high-profile name with deep Premier League roots from his time at Tottenham and Chelsea. While his current commitments with the United States may influence timing, sources suggest openness to taking the role post the World Cup.

Despite links in the Spanish press, NO approach has been made for Xabi Alonso since his Real Madrid departure, although Spurs admire all he has achieved in the game.

Spurs’ hierarchy, led by the Lewis family, are ready to make significant changes should they feel their season is at a loss and Frank cannot turn it around.

Fabio Paratici has left his role as sporting director, and sources have confirmed he did not believe Frank was the correct man to take the job from Ange Postecoglou.

Latest Tottenham news: Gallagher coup explained / Sherwood on Frank axe

Meanwhile, a report has revealed the three reasons why Tottenham beat Aston Villa to the signing of Conor Gallagher, with the Atletico Madrid midfielder’s arrival set to be announced soon.

Spurs have agreed a deal worth around £35m for Gallagher, who could prove to be a vital addition as they look to bounce back in the second half of the campaign.

In other news, former Tottenham boss Tim Sherwood has dropped his verdict on the Frank saga.

He said of the Tottenham vs West Ham clash: “El Sackico isn’t it, it’s a huge game. If West Ham go there and play on the front foot and take advantage of the fragile confidence of Tottenham at home, I think they’ve got a real chance.” You can read his full comments HERE.

Paris FC are pushing to sign Mathys Tel on loan and the Frenchman is open to leaving Tottenham, though there’s more to the forward’s reasoning for wanting out than just a lack of game-time, according to a source.

Tottenham signed Tel outright for £30m over the summer following a six-month loan spell from Bayern Munich. The deal was viewed as a real coup at the time, with Tel widely regarded as one of the brightest young forwards in European football.

However, Tel has been used sparingly this term, with the 20-year-old an unused substitute on seven occasions in the Premier League so far. He’s started just five times in the league.

French journalist Fabrice Hawkins led the way when revealing Tel is actively encouraging offers to leave Spurs via the loan route this month.

Fabrizio Romano subsequently stated Tel believes he has a real shot at making France’s World Cup squad, though of course, that can only happen if he’s playing regularly and to a high level in the second half of the season.

Ligue 1 side Paris FC – not to be confused with PSG – have made a loan approach. Tel is more than willing to return to his home country for the remainder of the season.

But according to the latest from Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, there’s a second reason eating away at Tel that explains why he wants out.

Beyond wanting regular game-time, Plettenberg revealed Tel is desperate to play as a central striker.

Tel’s first three starts in the league this term did come up front, though his last two starts both saw Tel deployed on the left wing, with Richarlison favoured as the central striker.

And with Dominic Solanke now fit and available for selection, the prospects of Tel playing in his customary position if remaining at Tottenham look bleak.

“Paris FC working on a loan move for Mathys Tel,” began Plettenberg when reporting on X. “Their main selling point is offering him his preferred position as a striker.

“The core of his frustration is not only his lack of playing time, but above all the fact that he is rarely used as a number nine.

“Tottenham are still blocking every enquiry for now, as they want to keep Tel at the club. His contract runs until 2031.”

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Tottenham could let Tel leave on one condition

As mentioned, Tottenham are thus far refusing to loan Tel out despite the player’s desire to move away for six months.

However, our insider, Graeme Bailey, has been informed of a way in which Tottenham could perform a U-turn and greenlight a move.

Bailey explained on Monday, January 12: “We are informed that should Spurs be successful in bringing in another forward, which they are trying to do, then they would reassess Tel’s situation.

“Tel himself sees a long-term future for himself in North London, but his main concern is for the rest of this season.”

Spurs have wrapped up deals to add a left-back (Souza) and central midfielder (Conor Gallagher) to their ranks this month.

A new forward – ideally a left winger – is on the agenda too, and if one does arrive, Tel might be allowed to leave later on in the window.

Latest Tottenham news – Why Gallagher chose Spurs over Villa / Frank sack claims not going away

In other news, family ties were just one reason why Tottenham Hotspur managed to beat Aston Villa to the signing of Conor Gallagher after sources took a deep dive into the three reasons behind the £34.7m transfer.

Family ties were just one reason why Tottenham Hotspur managed to beat Aston Villa to the signing of Conor Gallagher after sources took a deep dive into the reasons behind the £34.7m transfer, and with Thomas Frank already closing in on the exciting capture of a Brazilian defender next.

The England midfielder has agreed to join Tottenham after failing to convince Diego Simeone he was worthy of a regular start with Atletico Madrid and will now return to the Premier League after 18 months in the Spanish capital. Per multiple sources, including Fabrizio Romano and David Ornstein, a medical has been booked in with Gallagher due to travel to London on Tuesday to take the first steps towards completing the move.

The 22-times capped England star was initially expected to sign for Aston Villa, who had been in negotiations with the Spanish club, and while a deal had been agreed and had been given a tentative yes from the player himself, as confirmed by our transfer correspondent Fraser Fletcher, it was Spurs who ultimately beat them to the punch by raising the stakes over a deal.

In what sources have described as a ‘now-or-never’ scenario for Spurs, they quickly moved in to agree a fee with Atletico and personal terms with the player on a deal to 2031 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

And we can now reveal exactly how Villa were beaten to the punch…

Ultimately, it was Spurs’ willingness to pay a transfer fee up front that proved instrumental. And the deal, worth £34.7m (€40m, $47m) in a straight sale, trumped the loan to buy offer that Villa had initially struck with the Spanish side.

There were two other factors involved, too, however.

Firstly, and as mentioned, being back close to his tight-knit family in Surrey after 18 months in the Spanish capital helped prove decisive for Gallagher.

In addition, Frank’s promise to pitch the star straight into his starting line-up – and an easy offer given the frustrating injury suffered by Rodrigo Bentancur – helped convince the player, who hopes the move can help play his way back into Thomas Tuchel’s England plans ahead of the 2026 World Cup this summer.

Spurs will welcome his midfield energy and workmanlike qualities with open arms; a perfect addition to a midfield sometimes lacking the legs to compete with rivals.

However, Frank is not resting on his laurels by signing Gallagher and soon also hopes to add Brazilian star Souza to his mix…

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Spurs close on signing of Brazilian star Souza

Before Gallagher signs on the dotted line, however, Spurs expect to finalise the signing of Brazilian left-back Souza in a €15m (£13m, $17.5m) deal from Santos.

A deal for the 19-year-old was agreed last Friday, though Spurs did work their magic given the Brazilian side were initially seeking a fee worth €20m.

Per trusted reporter, Edu Burgos, Souza arrived in the UK on Monday ahead of medical checks and sign on the dotted line.

Taking to X, Burgos wrote: “Souza is travelling this Monday to England to undergo the medical exams and sign his contract.

“Santos and Tottenham have already reached a total agreement for the player. It was finalised [on Sunday afternoon].

“Five-year contract, until 2031. Santos will receive €15m, fixed and variables.”

Burgos’ claims were quickly backed up by Ben Jacobs, who wrote on the same platform: “Souza will fly to England on Monday to complete his €15m move to Spurs. Five-year contract agreed.”

Tottenham transfer latest: Gladbach star wanted; Frank axe imminent?

As mentioned, the left-back position is under scrutiny in north London right now, and Fletcher has been informed on the uncertainty surrounding Destiny Udogie and his long-term future at the club.

Last week, Fletcher brought news of Tottenham taking a close look at Borussia Monchengladbach’s Luca Netz, who would be signed, as well as Souza and not instead of.

Elsewhere, Tottenham have told the unsettled Mathys Tel they have no plans to allow him to leave the club this month, though there are circumstances in which that could change, sources can reveal, while a loan bid for a second Spurs star has also been rejected.

A busy January will hopefully give Frank the tools he needs to secure his minimum target of a top-six finish and ease the pressure building on his shoulders.

Currently down in 14th place, but just five points shy of fifth place, Frank has been the subject of intense speculation in recent weeks and with a former Spurs boss now revealing when he expects the axe to fall – and it’s sooner than you think.

A second observer, this time a former Tottenham manager, has outlined when Thomas Frank could be sacked – and it’s not far away.

Frank is under significant pressure at Tottenham right now, with the club exiting both domestic cup competitions in the early rounds and labouring in the Premier League.

When speaking on Sunday Supplement, pundit and broadcaster, Jacqui Oatley, insisted Frank’s situation will devolve into a full-blown crisis if his side lose to West Ham on Saturday.

The Hammers haven’t won a league match since November 8 and defeat to Nuno Espirito Santo’s side would signal a new low for Frank in north London.

“I think the key thing now is the next three or four games,” began Oatley.

“They’ve got West Ham at home. Now, lose that, and this crisis becomes a full-blown mega multi-crisis.

“Then they’ve got Borussia Dortmund at home in the Champions League. They are well-placed, potentially for a top-eight finish [in the Champions League].

“And then they’ve got Burnley as well in the Premier League, so these are really crucial games for Thomas Frank now.”

Now, former Spurs boss, Tim Sherwood, has added to suggestions Frank will be axed if Tottenham lose to West Ham at the weekend.

When appearing on Sky Sports and asked point blank if Tottenham have to beat West Ham for Frank to remain in charge, Sherwood responded: “No more than Nuno has to win it to stay in charge at West Ham.

“El Sackico isn’t it, it’s a huge game. If West Ham go there and play on the front foot and take advantage of the fragile confidence of Tottenham at home, I think they’ve got a real chance.”

Giving his take on what Frank and Tottenham are doing wrong, Sherwood insisted the Dane must “take the shackles off” his players.

“They need to start passing the ball forward instead of sideways and back,” declared an increasingly exasperated Sherwood.

“Their midfield players are capable of getting turned and passing it between the lines. If they take the lead from the Aston Villa game it’s exactly what Unai Emery did.

“They had two No 10s with Morgan Rogers and Emiliano Buendia and what their midfielders like Youri Tielemans did was pop it in behind Tottenham’s midfield players … and they ripped Tottenham to shreds.”

“Not because they’ve got better players, but because their playing style was on the front foot, it was positive.”

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What we’re hearing on Thomas Frank sack

TEAMtalk tasked insider, Graeme Bailey, with speaking to sources high up in the Tottenham food chain about Frank’s situation.

Reporting back, Bailey explained: ‘Tottenham Hotspur’s hierarchy are split on the future of Thomas Frank, but the club remain determined not to make a change this season.’

‘Spurs CEO Vinai Venkatesham believed he landed the right man in the summer when luring Frank across London from Brentford.

‘However, we are now told by sources that Venkatesham was warned by some members of Spurs’ hierarchy that the former Arsenal man was not a good fit in terms of his system and the Tottenham players already in situ.

‘The source, who spoke to us on the guarantee he would not be named, told us: “Vinai feels Thomas is such a great fit for Spurs in so many ways. A great person, character – who is well liked, but he was warned that the system would not be a fit.

“There is a real concern in the club, up high, that this is how things are playing out. The players like Thomas, but do they believe in what he is asking? That is the worry.”

Bailey added: ‘Now with Spurs sitting in 14th and with just one win in their last seven games, including an FA Cup exit to Aston Villa on Saturday, pressure is mounting.

‘Spurs are ready to invest this month and want Frank to succeed, and insist they do not want to make a mid-season change. But forthcoming games against West Ham and Borussia Dortmund are huge.

‘We are told that whilst Tottenham would not describe the current situation as Frank being given the dreaded ‘vote of confidence’ it does seem it is close to that situation.’

On Monday, another of our insiders, Fraser Fletcher, was informed Frank will be under ‘serious threat’ of being sacked if his side taste defeat to the Hammers on Saturday.

Latest Tottenham news – Bentancur surgery / Real Madrid deal / Spurs block move

In other news, Rodrigo Bentancur will require surgery to repair a hamstring injury that will rule the Uruguayan out for around three months.

Elsewhere, Real Madrid have set a reasonable price tag on a player that Spurs are keen on bringing to north London, according to a report in Spain, and there is no doubt that he would walk straight into the starting line-up.