TEAMtalk

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…

Real Madrid’s pursuit of Tottenham Hotspur’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 holds a genuine interest in the 24-year-old, who is one of Spurs’ most important players.

Van de Ven’s blend of pace, aerial dominance, and ball-playing ability has marked him as one of the Premier League’s standout defenders.

Since joining Tottenham from Wolfsburg in 2023, he has established himself as a cornerstone of the north London club’s backline. Real Madrid, ever proactive in their recruitment, see the Netherlands international as a long-term successor to their ageing defensive core.

Club scouts have been impressed by his composure under pressure and ability to neutralise high-calibre forwards. His incredible goal against FC Copenhagen yesterday evening yet again showcased his ability.

Tottenham, however, remain resolute. With Van de Ven contracted until 2029, the club faces no immediate financial or contractual pressure to sell.

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…

Tottenham’s season could be crucial to Van de Ven’s future

TEAMtalk understands that Van de Ven has ambitions to play at the highest level consistently, and therefore, it is paramount that Tottenham seal Champions League qualification.

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. The Ligue 1 giants see him as a potential partner for Marquinhos in a revamped defence.

For Real Madrid, 2026 represents a strategic window. With veterans like Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba nearing the latter stages of their careers, Van de Ven fits the profile of a modern, versatile defender capable of thriving in Xabi Alonso’s system.

Tottenham’s stance is clear: only an astronomical offer, likely exceeding £90m and a new world-record deal for a defender, would force negotiations.

As the transfer saga unfolds, Van de Ven’s performances this season will dictate the intensity of the tug-of-war. For now, Spurs hold the cards – but Europe’s giants are circling.

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Latest Tottenham news: Ivan Toney on radar / Juventus star eyed

Meanwhile, TEAMtalk has revealed that Tottenham are in a strong position to sign Ivan Toney, who could leave Saudi club Al-Ahli in January.

A number of clubs are interested in a mid-season loan, but the former Brentford forward’s relationship with Thomas Frank could give Spurs the upper hand.

In other news, Tottenham are one of four Premier League clubs keeping tabs on Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, who could be available for €20m (£17.5m / $23m) in January.

Micky van de Ven’s incredible goal for Tottenham Hotspur on Tuesday night has had supporters around the world purring, with some demanding they award him the ‘Puskas award’ now and with beaming manager Thomas Frank comparing him to arguably the greatest player of all time.

The Dutchman has comfortably been Tottenham’s best player this season, not only marshalling a defence that has conceded just eight times so far – a tally bettered only by Arsenal, though matched by two other sides. But it’s not only his defensive prowess that Van de Ven has thrived, scoring an incredible six goals in 15 appearances to thrust him right to the very top of the club’s goalscoring charts.

However, his strike on Tuesday night, as FC Copenhagen were well beaten 4-0 in the Champions League, was comfortably his best yet, with his burst from one penalty area to another, which saw him dribble through several challenges, completely breaking the internet.

In reaction to the strike, fans have marvelled at his goal and drawn comparisons to two Tottenham legends in the process.

Commenting on Facebook, Owen Jakes wrote: “If Son’s goal was a Puskas Award winner. Then this is as well ”

Daniel White also added: “Just me or does this remind you of the Bale solo goal for Spurs in Europe? What a goal that is fair play.”

Ben Barnes also compared Van de Ven to the Spurs legend, adding: “Dude is like Bale [swear word]. Stick him upfront!!”

Mark Banks also wrote: “Finished like a striker, dribbles like a winger, ran like a sprinter.”

Michael Baker couldn’t resist a cheeky dig at Arsenal either, commenting: “Wouldn’t see Saliba or Gabriel do that.”

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Thomas Frank compares Van de Ven to Lionel Messi

Spurs boss Frank, meanwhile, claimed Van de Ven looked like prime Lionel Messi as he was racing forward for his stunning solo strike.

Speaking to reporters after the game, Frank said: “It seemed like we had Lionel Messi turned into Micky van de Ven.

“Running from his own goal all the way to the other end and scoring a fantastic goal.

“I think he’s our top scorer in all competitions so he can keep going. He can keep walking past me if he’s angry after the game if he delivers like this!”

That last comment was in reference to the Dutchman ignoring his manager’s instructions to thank the fans following Saturday’s home loss to Chelsea, along with fellow defender Djed Spence.

While Tottenham were able to get their home form back on track against a toothless Copenhagen side, it will be much tougher against a resurgent Manchester United this weekend.

Frank will be hoping to have his best attacker this season, Mohammed Kudus, back for that game after the Ghana winger missed the latest Champions League outing with a knock.

Latest Tottenham news: Striker chase update; Morgan Rogers blow

Tottenham are leading the race to sign a proven striker Thomas Frank knows well in January, and TEAMtalk can reveal the Spurs boss has already held direct talks with the frontman.

Elsewhere, Aston Villa have delivered a clear ‘hands off’ message to clubs interested in Morgan Rogers, and TEAMtalk understands that Unai Emery’s side are set to make a major statement, in a blow to his SEVEN confirmed suitors.

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

Tottenham Hotspur take on Manchester United in the Premier League on Saturday looking to build on a rare home win in the Champions League, with Thomas Frank being tipped to switch formation and also make four changes to his side.

Spurs were desperate to record a home victory and put on a strong performance after their listless display against London rivals Chelsea last time out, and, for the most part, they did just that to dispatch Danish side Copenhagen 4-0.

Goals from Brennan Johnson, who also saw red early in the second-half, Wilson Odobert, a remarkable Micky van de Ven solo effort and Joao Palhinha gave the home fans something to cheer about for once.

However, the focus now switches to United, and there are rumours circulating that Frank is ready to change up his formation and move to a back three for the first time since the Super Cup penalty shoot-out defeat to PSG back in August.

The Dane was notorious for changing up his formations while at Brentford but has been fairly rigid with his 4-3-3 at Tottenham so far.

That could all change against Ruben Amorim’s side, who also operate with three at the back, and it could unleash a marauding Van de Ven even more after his heroics on Tuesday evening.

United will still have memories of what the Dutch centre-back did to them last season at Old Trafford when his unstoppable burst from the back ended up with an assist for an early Johnson goal.

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Danso slots into back three

The Austrian defender was unlucky to be dropped from the starting XI against Copenhagen after performing well in Romero’s absence, but there was never any doubt that the Argentine World Cup winner would return when available.

Having Danso in the team, however, means Tottenham also have the added bonus of his long-throw weapon, while defensively it gives Frank another big body to cope with United’s set-piece threat.

Danso lines up on the right, with Romero central and Van de Ven able to burst out from the back in the left-sided berth.

The wing-backs are likely to be Pedro Porro and Djed Spence, with Destiny Udogie dropping back to the bench after playing 73 minutes on his return from injury in midweek.

Palhinha returns as Bentancur drops out

Rodrigo Bentancur is due a break after starting the last 12 games, amid fears over fatigue, although there is an argument for the Uruguay star to go again after his impressive performance against Copenhagen in midweek.

Joao Palhinha is a straight swap in that regard and will start alongside Pape Sarr in the heart of the Spurs engine room.

It’s only likely that Lucas Bergvall will be involved as he continues with the concussion protocols, while Archie Gray remains out wth a groin issue.

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Kolo Muani gets the nod in attack

Despite missing a couple of sitters on Tuesday night, Kolo Muani was a lively presence through the middle and it feels like only a matter of time before the France international starts to register on the stats sheet.

With Frank playing wing-backs, it means Mohammed Kudus, should he recover from his knock, and Xavi Simons will have more roaming roles in and around Kolo Muani.

Spurs finally showed some attacking flair at home in the win over Copenhagen and will look to carry that on against a United side that are finally showing some consistency under Amorim.

Jamie Carragher appears to have done a bit of a U-turn when it comes to Tottenham Hotspur’s signing of Joao Palhinha over the summer, after analysing the midfielder following the deflating weekend defeat to Chelsea.

The 30-year-old Portugal international has largely delivered what was expected of him after making his loan switch from Bayern Munich, even chipping in with three goals for Thomas Frank’s men.

Palhinha has been posting excellent numbers when it comes to ball recoveries, tackles and interceptions so far this term, and has clearly made Tottenham a tougher nut to crack defensively.

However, his partnership with Rodrigo Bentancur has not been a productive one in home outings, with Caragher pointing out how the duo shy away from passing the ball fowards and often opt to go sideways or back when in possession.

Indeed, Carragher brutally named the reason why top Premier League clubs didn’t move for Palhinha when he left Fulham and also why he struggled to feature at Bayern Munich.

That’s in stark contrast to his comments on the Portuguese in The Telegraph just a week ago, when he wrote: “The best signing under Frank so far is Joao Palhinha, a highly effective ball-winner more so than a playmaker.

“In the early stages of his Spurs career, Palhinha is exactly what Frank and his new club need, and it could bring instant success.

“Going forward, there will have to be an evolution, as the pairing of Palhinha and Rodrigo Bentancur is perceived by supporters to be over-cautious in home games.”

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Carragher doubles down on Palhinha weaknesses

When Palhinha and Bentancur have played together at The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Spurs have struggled for creativity from the middle of the park.

The midfielders across the Premier League were plotted on a graph for tackles and line-breaking passes on Sky Sports’ Monday Night Football.

Carragher pointed out that while Palhinha is comfortably outperforming almost every other midfielder for tackles, neither he nor Bentancur are making many passes through the lines to forward players.

The Liverpool legend said: “One of his [Thomas Frank’s] first signings is Palhinha. He is not capable, I don’t think, of doing this [breaking the lines with his passes]. There was a reason why teams from the Premier League didn’t buy him from Fulham. There was a reason Bayern Munich bought him and didn’t play him. So, that would be a worry.

“For Thomas Frank going forward, when you think of pragmatic managers in the past who have made the jump up from a smaller club to a bigger club, that has always been the problem, in terms of can they coach the rotations, the build-up play, to break the lines?”

Carragher is perhaps being unfair on Palhinha, who is doing what is asked of him by Frank and perhaps more focus should be on Bentancur being more progressive with his passing.

Frank has also not been helped by the likes of James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski and now Lucas Bergvall all being sidelined, in terms of the creative options available to him.

And, while Spurs have the best away record in the Premier League this season, the Tottenham boss needs to quickly find the right formula to fix those home woes.

Latest Tottenham news

First up, Tottenham are leading the race to sign a proven striker Thomas Frank knows well in January, and TEAMtalk can reveal the Spurs boss has already held direct talks with the frontman.

Elsewhere, 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.

Finally, 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.

Tottenham are leading the race to sign a proven striker Thomas Frank knows well in January, and TEAMtalk can reveal the Spurs boss has already held direct talks with the frontman.

Ivan Toney could be poised for a sensational Premier League comeback in January, with sources confirming the England striker’s burning desire to secure regular minutes and cement his place in Thomas Tuchel’s 2026 World Cup squad.

The 29-year-old, who swapped Brentford for Saudi side Al-Ahli in a £40m deal last summer, has impressed with his goalscoring feats in the middle east, but remains unsettled in the region.

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.

Tottenham Hotspur lead the race for Toney. Manager Thomas Frank, who coached Toney to stardom at Brentford, has already held direct talks with the player.

Relations between the pair remain strong and few would come with a greater guarantee of succeeding in Frank’s Spurs team than Toney. The frontman knows the Dane’s system and tactical demands intimately.

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.

West Ham, Everton circling, but Tottenham favourites

West Ham have entered the frame too, having sounded out Toney about a switch.

With Niclas Fullkrug struggling for form and minutes and determined to leave in January, Nuno Espirito Santo sees the Englishman as a proven goal threat to ignite their season.

The Hammers’ proactive approach signals serious intent as they try to turn their dismal campaign around.

Everton, long linked with Toney, are more cautious. David Moyes admires the forward but is wary of squad disharmony.

With Beto and Thierno Barry already vying for places, sources reveal Moyes is reluctant to stockpile strikers and risk unrest on the bench.

The Toffees may yet move if injuries strike or if a sale is secured, but harmony trumps firepower for now.

No deal is done, but momentum is building. Toney’s camp are pushing hard, and Al-Ahli are open to a loan that safeguards their £40m outlay.

For a player who scored 20 goals in a Premier League season as recently as the 2022/23 campaign, the upcoming winter window represents a career crossroads, and a chance to remind Tuchel why he belongs on the biggest stage.

Latest Tottenham news – Xavi Simons…

In other news, plenty of Spurs fans have seemingly given up hope that Xavi Simons can be an effective player for Thomas Frank’s side after his latest dismal display against Chelsea, but TEAMtalk has looked at two factors that could alter everything for the talented playmaker.