TEAMtalk

Thomas Frank is reportedly ready to drop a key Tottenham Hotspur attacking star to the bench in favour of a controversial change to his starting XI for Tuesday night’s Champions League trip to Bodo/Glimt.

Spurs return to the scene of their Europa League semi-final triumph as they head to Norway for their second Champions League outing of the season, having beaten Villarreal 1-0 in their opening contest in north London.

The 4G surface at Bodo is sure to present its challenges again, although Tottenham coped with it fairly well last season as they won 2-0 courtesy of strikes from Dominic Solanke and Pedro Porro.

And while the former is likely to remain on the sidelines, as he ramps up his fitness ahead of a return to action, Porro is set to be one of three potential changes from Spurs’ disappointing 1-1 draw with Wolves at the weekend.

The Spain international will return at right-back in Norway, with Destiny Udogie set to line up on the left ahead of Djed Spence.

Bodo’s energetic style of play is set to see Pape Sarr return to Frank’s engine room, probably at the expense of Rodrigo Bentancur, with the in-form Lucas Bergvall continuing as the more advanced of the midfield three ahead of Sarr and Joao Palhinha.

It’s up from where Frank looks set to make a controversial call, with several predictions claiming that big-money summer signing Xavi Simons will drop down the bench in favour of Brennan Johnson’s work-rate and knack of popping up with crucial goals – especially away from home.

That decision is sure to annoy a number of Tottenham fans who are calling for Simons to be given an extended run as the No.10 in the absence of both James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski.

Rounding out the front three are Richarlison through the middle, with Randal Kolo Muani still not recovered from his dead leg, and the outstanding Mohammed Kudus on the right.

Predicted Tottenham XI vs Bodo/Glimt

DON’T MISS ➡️ Seven Premier League players who already need a January transfer: overlooked Mainoo, banished Sterling

Latest Tottenham news: January swoop ruled out; left-back signing hopes boosted

Brentford will not entertain any offers for one of their top stars in the January transfer window despite renewed interest expected to arise from Tottenham Hotspur, TEAMtalk understands.

Elsewhere, a top Spurs January transfer window target is reportedly ready to stall on fresh contract talks with his current club in the hope of securing a switch to north London, and TEAMtalk has detailed how the move would help Thomas Frank.

And finally, Harry Kane has moved to distance himself from reports claiming he could quit Bayern Munich at the end of the season and return to the Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur – despite an insider dropping the truths on the clause that would make such a move possible.

Brentford will not entertain any offers for Nathan Collins in the January transfer window despite renewed interest expected to arise from Tottenham Hotspur, TEAMtalk understands.

We revealed on September 26 that a new centre-back has become a top priority for Spurs and the 24-year-old figures highly on their shortlist, having sparked interest in North London during the summer.

Thomas Frank is understood to be keen on a reunion with Collins, who featured in all 38 of the Bees’ Premier League fixtures under the now-Tottenham boss last season.

The Republic of Ireland international has established himself as a dependable performer and is seen as a vital figure for Brentford at a time of transition under new manager Keith Andrews.

The club have already been forced to deal with the departure of key players such as Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa in recent months and are determined to avoid further disruption.

While Brentford’s Yehor Yarmolyuk remains on the radar of Tottenham and Manchester United as a longer-term target for 2026, as TEAMtalk revealed on September 21, insiders admit Collins is another name rivals are likely to keep close tabs on across the next two windows.

However, the message from within the club is clear that there will be no negotiations over the defender’s exit in January, forcing Spurs to look elsewhere.

Brentford send strong hands-off message to Tottenham

Andrews, who is just beginning his tenure in charge of Brentford, has been assured by the club’s board that Collins is off limits.

The 45-year-old is attempting to steer his squad clear of the relegation picture after a difficult start and last weekend’s victory over Manchester United has provided a crucial platform for momentum.

The Bees currently sit 13th in the Premier League table, four points clear of the bottom three, though that could change if West Ham get a result away at Everton under new boss Nuno Espirito Santo tonight.

TEAMtalk understands that protecting Collins is viewed internally at Brentford as vital to building on their win over Man Utd and their fight to stay in the top flight.

FULL BREAKDOWN ⚪ The key contract details of every Tottenham first-team player: Expiry dates, weekly wages, agents…

Latest Tottenham news: Savinho off limits / Star to return?

Meanwhile, there is more bad news for Tottenham’s transfer plans, with confirmed target Savinho reportedly penning fresh terms with Manchester City.

Fabrizio Romano revealed yesterday (September 29) that the Brazilian has ‘approved’ a new six-year contract at the Etihad.

Savinho was ready to join Tottenham over the summer and Frank’s side remained interested after having two offers rejected, but the winger has now committed his long-term future to the Cityzens.

In other news, reports suggest that former Spurs youngster Dennis Cirkin is hopeful of returning, with the club showing genuine interest in the Sunderland left-back.

Cirkin’s contract with Sunderland expires at the end of this season and he is set to put renewal talks on hold as he eyes a Tottenham return.

Manchester City have reached a crucial agreement with exciting winger Savinho, with Fabrizio Romano revealing the details of a new contract that’ll frustrate Tottenham.

The 21-year-old Brazilian was open to joining Spurs over the summer, and Thomas Frank’s side were willing to pay over £65m to get a deal done, but saw two bids rejected.

Man City ultimately blocked his exit, despite Savinho reportedly being frustrated by a lack of consistent playing time under Pep Guardiola.

However, Savinho started and played 62 minutes in the Cityzens’ 5-1 win over Burnley on Saturday, and he has been convinced to commit his long-term future to the Manchester club.

Fabrizio Romano revealed in a post on X that Savinho’s new contract has now been fully agreed, with an official announcement set to follow soon.

“Savinho will sign a new deal at Man City until June 2031, documents approved,” Romano wrote.

TEAMtalk transfer insider Dean Jones revealed earlier this month that Savinho remains a player of interest for Tottenham, with Thomas Frank keen to add to his winger options.

However, with the youngster committing to a new six-year deal at the Etihad, Spurs will now look elsewhere for a new winger, with a Ligue 1 star also on their radar…

Tottenham turn to exciting Savinho alternative

Jones exclusively revealed to TEAMtalk in an update on September 26 that Tottenham are looking at AS Monaco star Maghnes Akliouche as an alternative to Savinho.

Akliouche, 23, is a versatile France international, who can play as an attacking midfielder or as a winger.

So far this season, the Monaco ace has notched two goals and one assist in five Ligue 1 appearances for Monaco.

In the 2024/25 campaign, Akliouche scored seven times and provided 12 assists in 43 matches in all competitions.

Jones exclusively told TEAMtalk: “Spurs have always had other players on their radar if they do not manage to sign Savinho, and scouting assignments will continue accordingly.

“One of the players I am told they have had eyes on from an attacking point of view is Maghnes Akliouche, and they will actually be very interested in seeing how he fares in an upcoming Champions League game against Man City.

“He’s played every minute for Monaco so far this season and plays off the right, but there is a belief he can also be versatile, and he has a very high ceiling in the game.

“Monaco rate him highly and would be putting a premium fee on his head if the interest steps up in the new year as they do not want to lose him.”

DON’T MISS 🤑 The 10 highest-paid players at Man City after De Bruyne exit as Haaland eclipses all

Latest Man City news: PSG superstar linked with Etihad switch

Meanwhile, after signing Gianluigi Donnarumma over the summer, reports suggest that Man City are eyeing a spectacular move for another PSG star: Warren Zaire-Emery.

Reports from France state that the Cityzens have identified Zaire-Emery as a ‘dream’ target as Guardiola looks to strengthen his midfield options.

PSG have responded by slapping a huge €100m (£87.2m / $117m) price tag on the 19-year-old’s head.

Tottenham Hotspur fans have been critical of Thomas Frank’s attacking set-up and some of his tactical decisions following the 1-1 draw with Wolves on Saturday, while TEAMtalk assesses why it will take until January to fix those issues.

The home side needed a late Joao Palhinha strike to salvage a point against a Wolves side that had lost every Premier League outing so far this season and deserved a draw from the contest at the very least.

Having looked bright in the first half and caused the visitors plenty of issues, particularly from the wide areas, Tottenham lost their way in the second period and hardly troubled the bottom-of-the-table Wolves.

And, speaking during and after the game, it’s fair to say that some Spurs supporters are not happy with what they are seeing from Frank’s side in the final third.

SloGeorge wrote on Reddit: “Kudus is a machine. Such an exciting player. I like Spurs more with Simons as a 10 but I understand Frank’s concerns with the lack of physicality in the frontline if he moves him in the middle.”

FaustRPeggi also stated: “I’ve watched maybe three Spurs games this year, and I’m yet to see any attempt to instill a cogent attacking stucture into this team. All I’ve seen is the platforming of individual attackers, and that doesn’t work for a big six club. They face disciplined mid-block teams with counter-attacking threat every week, and they’re not going to be beaten by cross volume and set pieces.”

The user then added: “I’m going to need to see some of the “incredible squad depth – three players for every attacking position” that every commentator has told me Spurs have. Outside of Kudus their ability to build from back to front is not there at all. Bergvall’s a really talented player but he goes missing in the league all the time.”

civilthroaway also wrote: “Frank needs to find a way to get the ball in Xavi’s feet in the final third (other than booting in a cross or corner). Spurs just let Wolves get this momentum now they can’t get control of the game.”

SurfAndTurfEnjoyer then called out Frank for bringing on Brenan Johnson and moving Mohammed Kudus out of position, stating: “To move Kudus out of position for Johnson is fraudulent.”

The user also added: “We were really spoiled with Kane and prime Son. Hope Solanke and RKM recover already.”

airz23s_coffee also said: “Desperate for Xavi to start clicking with the attackers. He’s made me feel things every game he’s played.”

DON’T MISS ➡️ Transfer Debrief: Harry Kane’s spectacular Tottenham return; Next Man Utd manager; Newcastle want THIRD new striker

Why January can fix Tottenham issues

It’s very clear that the club made a big error in failing to replace legendary skipper Son Heung-min when it comes to the left-wing position.

Xavi Simons is still finding his feet but will arguably be the club’s regular No.10 in the near future, especially with James Maddison out for what is likely to be the whole season.

He has not been as effective playing off the left flank, but is asked to do a job there mostly due to Frank’s other options not being very good.

Brennan Johnson, Wilson Odobert and Mathys Tel have all failed to make the position their own, meaning Tottenham will have to hit the market again in January and fix that issue.

There are options in that regard, although Manchester City’s Savinho is no longer one of them as he closes in on a new Etihad deal, while there are there January factors at play when it comes to helping Frank.

The return of Dejan Kulusevski will also give the club, and Frank, a massive lift, giving the Spurs boss an outstanding creative option that should then take some heat off Simons.

The Dutchman has so far attracted double teams when it comes to trying to weave his magic, but if Kulusevski and Kudus are on the same pitch then more space should open up and improve productivity in the final third for Tottenham.

At least Frank has improved one aspect that was sorely lacking under Ange Postecoglou, more solid defensive shape.

Building from the back is an old adage, but Frank has already admitted that he wanted to stabilise the team and that the attacking play might suffer as a result.

And, while that has been the case, the Spurs boss is working on getting more fluidity in that final third and, given how Brentford eventually flourished as a attacking unit, the hope is that will come sooner rather than later – although January could well be key.

A top Tottenham Hotspur January transfer window target is reportedly ready to stall on fresh contract talks with his current club in the hope of securing a switch to north London, and TEAMtalk has detailed how the move would help Thomas Frank.

Spurs have started the new season well in terms of their defensive play, having conceded just four goals from their opening six Premier League outings, although their attack misfired again during the 1-1 home draw with Wolves on Saturday evening.

Thomas Frank’s men needed a late Joao Palhinha strike to rescue a point from a game where they struggled to break down a resolute visiting defence.

One issue during the contest was Tottenham‘s failure to get much attacking impetuous from their full-backs, with Djed Spence and Destiny Udogie failing to create overloads out wide alongside wingers Mohamed Kudus and Xavi Simons.

Frank has already admitted that he has “three good full-backs” to pick from, including Pedro Porro as well, but is well aware that he needs more left-back cover.

That is where former Spurs youngster Dennis Cirkin comes in, as his struggles at Sunderland indicate that a return to north London in the new year could well be on the cards.

Indeed, TBR Football reports that Cirkin is ready to put the brakes on fresh contract talks at the Stadium of Light in the hope of returning to Tottenham, who have shown genuine interest in bringing him back.

It’s easy to see why, with Frank not having a natural left-back option to back up Udogie and using Spence for that role instead, especially with Ben Davies now considered more of a centre-back late in his career.

DON’T MISS ➡️ Seven Premier League players who already need a January transfer: overlooked Mainoo, banished Sterling

Why Tottenham can benefit from Cirkin struggles

The Black Cats bolstered their squad for their top-flight return over the summer, including bringing in two new left-back options in Arthur Masuaku and Reinildo Mandava, and that has left Cirkin out in the cold.

Indeed, the talented 23-year-old, who was instrumental in Sunderland’s promotion charge, has not played a minute of action so far this term. However, part of that decision comes down to the fact that the defender will be out of contract this summer and has yet to commit to a new deal.

Cirkin scored three goals and laid on two assists for Regis Le Bris’ side last season, playing 39 games in total, and would offer Tottenham genuine left-back cover behind Udogie – rather than the over-reliance on using the right-footed Spence for that role.

Udogie’s injury history would also make Cirkin a shrewd buy in January, especially with the player likely to be available for a cut-price fee.

Indeed, TBR Football indicates that Sunderland are looking to offload fringe players in the January window, with Cirkin’s contract situation making him one of them.

The Irish-born full-back is more of an attack-minded presence than both Udogie and Spence, something Tottenham could have done with as they struggled in the home loss to Bournemouth and the draw with Wolves.

And with Frank a fan of the player, there is every chance that Spurs will look to bring Cirkin back to where it all began come the new year.

Latest Tottenham news: Kane on Spurs return; new left-wing target

Harry Kane has moved to distance himself rom reports claiming he could quit Bayern Munich at the end of the season and return to the Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur – despite an insider dropping the truths on the clause that would make such a move possible.

Elsewhere, Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing an AS Monaco and France international star, sources have told TEAMtalk, as Savinho looks set to sign a new contract with Manchester City and put an end to Spurs manager Thomas Frank’s desire to sign him.

Harry Kane has moved to distance himself from reports claiming he could quit Bayern Munich at the end of the season and return to the Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur – despite an insider dropping the truths on the clause that would make such a move possible.

The England skipper moved to Bavaria two summers ago and has now set history as the fastest player in Europe’s top five leagues to reach 100 goals for any single club. Kane achieved the feat on Friday night after scoring twice in their 4-0 win over Werder Bremen, reaching the landmark in just 104 games and one game quicker than Erling Haaland did so with Manchester City.

The move to Germany also saw the free-scoring 32-year-old collect the first major trophy of his career as Bayern Munich tasted Bundesliga title success last season. With Friday’s win keeping Bayern Munich at 100% for the season and extending their advantage at the summit to five points, they will already be everyone’s favourites to retain that crown – while Vincent Kompany’s side also look a strong candidate to win the Champions League this season too.

Despite having an unbelievable 15 goals in eight games to his name this season, speculation of late has emerged that Kane could be tempted back to the Premier League next summer with an exit clause giving Tottenham Hotspur first refusal over a possible deal.

That speculation was put to Kane in the wake of Friday’s win at the Allianz Arena and with the player having the chance to eclipse Alan Shearer’s 260-goal mark as the Premier League’s all-time top scorer.

However, Kane is adamant he is happy where he is and insists he isn’t giving any thoughts to a return to Tottenham Hotspur or anywhere else.

“No, I’m not thinking about a Premier League return at the moment. I’m really happy here,” he told German TV after the win.

“I have two years left on my contract. I’m enjoying every moment. Bayern is the best place to win trophies, absolutely.“

DON’T MISS Bayern reveal ONLY way Tottenham can re-sign Harry Kane – why Thomas Frank should be saying NO

The truths about the exit clause in Harry Kane’s Bayern contract

Upon signing for Bayern in August 2023, Kane became the most expensive player in Bundesliga history and the division’s first €100m signing.

Penning a deal until 2027, staying with the Bundesliga giants to the end of that arrangement would take Kane through to the veteran status age of 34.

However, there is a get-out clause in that arrangement that would allow Kane to return to the Premier League next summer – some 12 months before the arrangement is officially due to expire.

German outlet BILD recently confirmed the presence of a clause in Kane’s contract that stipulates he can leave Bayern next summer for just €65m (£57m, $76m).

The one caveat is that Kane must inform the club he intends to leave no later than the end of the January window. The purpose of the clause is to give Bayern a six-month head start on signing a replacement.

While €65m that may sound steep for a player who’ll be on the cusp of turning 33 at that time, there are very few players in world football who come with as big a guarantee of goals.

Transfer insider, Dean Jones, informed TEAMtalk on Monday that Spurs are among three clubs who are willing to move for Kane next summer. The others are Chelsea and Barcelona.

“Harry Kane’s price tag for next summer is completely in range for Tottenham – especially in a moment when they start to push the bar in terms of ambition and intent.

“It was already expected that they look for another top-level forward, so the timing would be good.

“Kane will be open-minded about going back to Spurs one day, that has always been the impression, but they would need to be in the Champions League, as he will not be interested in moving for sentimental reasons.

“Yes, he still holds them close to his heart and of course he would like the chance to tie up the goals record in the league (Kane trails Alan Shearer by 47 goals) – but if other clubs like Barcelona are truly in the picture, then that is something serious to consider.

“Because of the clause that exists in his contract, it is not going to be out of reach for Barcelona to sign him.

“It could make sense that Barca go for Kane next summer while they wait for Haaland to join them from Man City when he is ready.”

Tottenham latest: Frank wants French star with ‘left foot made of gold’

Meanwhile, Tottenham are interested in signing an AS Monaco and France international star, sources have told TEAMtalk, as Savinho looks set to sign a new contract with Manchester City and put an end to Thomas Frank’s desire to sign the Brazilian.

In a lovely tease for Spurs, the player in question has been described as having a ‘left foot made of gold’.

Elsewhere on the incoming front, our transfer insider, Jones, has named the Brentford star that Tottenham are keeping a close eye on.

While expenditure is governed by PSR in the Premier League, Spurs could find themselves under new ownership amid claims a US consortium has launched a £4.5billion (€5.1bn, $60bn) takeover bid for Tottenham, with their transfer plans for January also revealed if successful.

Arsenal failed to do something their rivals Tottenham Hotspur did when offloading a player on loan to the same club this summer – and it’s going down well at the destination, despite what happens next potentially playing into the Gunners’ hands more.

Arsenal sent four players away on loan on deadline day, giving them a last-gasp chance to get more game time elsewhere. Jakub Kiwior went to Porto, Reiss Nelson to Brentford, Fabio Vieira departed for Hamburg and Oleksandr Zinchenko went to Nottingham Forest.

Now, some further information has emerged about the agreement with Hamburg for Vieira, who is now on his second spell away from Arsenal after spending last season back on loan at Porto.

According to Hamburger Morgen Post, Arsenal have no option to recall Vieira in January – which is the opposite of Tottenham’s agreement with Hamburg for defender Luka Vuskovic.

But while that oversight could have given them an insurance policy, Arsenal do not view Vieira as part of their plans for the long term. Instead, they are hoping to cash in on him in 2026 – to Hamburg or elsewhere.

Hamburg aren’t particularly big spenders and there’s an acknowledgement that their €20m (£17.5m) option to buy him is more of a signpost for other teams who could stump up that cash next summer.

Arsenal will have to hope Vieira performs well to make that price look attractive to buyers next year – and the latest report in Germany has shared how they’ve attempted to boost their chances.

Arsenal play long game with behind-the-scenes agreement

Hamburger Morgen Post explains that Arsenal have arranged for the cost of Hamburg’s loan payment for Vieira to reduce the more he pays.

As things stand, Hamburg are paying a fee close to €500,000 (£0.4m), but there’s even a chance Arsenal could waive that whole sum if Vieira plays very frequently.

In effect, it’s a strategy by Arsenal to put Vieira in the shop window as clearly as possible before looking to cash in a year before his contract at the Emirates Stadium expires.

Vieira made his first assist for Hamburg on his second appearance last week against Heidenheim.

Arsenal transfer news: Summer signing tipped for exit

Meanwhile, an Arsenal player who only just arrived at the club this summer has been labelled a top target for a Serie A side who would be able to give him a more prominent role than the one he recently signed up for.

On the incomings front for 2026, Arsenal are reportedly drawing up a double offer to bolster their ranks with two players from LaLiga.

Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing an AS Monaco and France international star, sources have told TEAMtalk, as Savinho looks set to sign a new contract with Manchester City and put an end to Spurs manager Thomas Frank’s desire to sign him.

Spurs wanted to sign Savinho from Premier League rivals Manchester City in the summer transfer window. Sources told TEAMtalk that the Brazil international winger himself was willing to make the move to last season’s Europa League winners, but Man City manager Pep Guardiola did not want to lose the 21-year-old.

Our transfer insider, Dean Jones, reported on September 22 that Tottenham ‘are still keeping an eye on Savinho, knowing that he wanted the move in the summer’.

Spurs’ hopes of signing the winger have now disappeared, though, as, according to ESPN and trusted journalist Fabrizio Romano, Savinho is now set to sign a new contract with Man City, with talks over fresh terms in ‘final stages’ amid the winger’s desire to stay at the Etihad Stadium for the ‘long term’.

Tottenham, though, are not putting their eggs in one basket, with Jones telling TEAMtalk that the north London outfit have already been looking at AS Monaco star Maghnes Akliouche.

Akliouche is a versatile France international, who can play as an attacking midfielder or as a winger.

The 23-year-old has played as a right winger so far this season and has scored two goals and given one assist in six appearances for Monaco.

In the 2024/25 campaign, Akliouche found the back of the net seven times and provided 12 assists in 43 matches in all competitions, with scout Jacek Kulig describing him on X at 9:57pm on May 10, 2025, as “an absolute joy to watch with a left foot made of gold”.

Jones said: “Spurs have always had other players on their radar if they do not manage to sign Savinho, and scouting assignments will continue accordingly.

“One of the players I am told they have had eyes on from an attacking point of view is Maghnes Akliouche, and they will actually be very interested in seeing how he fares in an upcoming Champions League game against Man City.

“He’s played every minute for Monaco so far this season and plays off the right, but there is a belief he can also be versatile, and he has a very high ceiling in the game.

“Monaco rate him highly and would be putting a premium fee on his head if the interest steps up in the new year as they do not want to lose him.”

IN DEPTH 🌐 Transfer Debrief: Harry Kane’s spectacular Tottenham return; Next Man Utd manager; Newcastle want THIRD new striker

GO DEEPER: Who is Maghnes Akliouche?

Predominantly a right winger, Akliouche made his debut for Monaco’s B team in August 2020 at the age of 18.

He went on to earn his first-team debut in October 2021, sent on by Niko Kovac in a Ligue 1 clash with Lyon.

Over the next couple of seasons, he made do with brief appearances in virtually any attacking position. It was last season in which he made a definitive breakthrough.

Now focusing his game more as either a right winger or central attacking midfielder, Akliouche scored his first Ligue 1 goal in September 2023, against Marseille – and scored his second less than an hour later.

That day, he was playing as the sole no.10 in a 3-4-1-2 formation, but this season he has shifted over to a right-wing role in a 4-2-3-1.

As a left-footer, that role allows him to cut inside and create chances with his stronger foot. Among attacking midfielders in Ligue 1 last season, he ranked in the 93rd percentile for touches in the attacking penalty area per 90 minutes and the 88th for progressive passes per 90 minutes.

His dribbling ability is something he has been renowned for and his impressive weight of pass allows him to set up chances for his teammates.

He has the potential to be a good finisher too, but perhaps needs to increase his frequency of shots to become an even bigger threat. The ingredients are there, though.

Latest Tottenham news: Brentford raid, Harry Kane warning

While Tottenham are keen on signing a new winger, sources have told TEAMtalk that the north London club want to secure the services of a defender, too.

Our transfer insider, Dean Jones, has named the Brentford star that Tottenham are keeping a close eye on.

Harry Kane is another player that Tottenham want to sign, with the Bayern Munich striker available for a bargain fee next summer.

However, TEAMtalk’s Tottenham Hotspur correspondent, Rob McCarthy, has listed the reasons why Spurs should not re-sign Kane.

A top midfielder would love to join Manchester United despite Liverpool believing that he is perfect for manager Arne Slot, according to a report, which has revealed Tottenham Hotspur’s interest in the star, as the Red Devils are unfazed by his disappointing start to the new season.

Man Utd and Liverpool are two of the biggest clubs on the planet and are global brands, but the two English clubs have had contrasting fortunes in recent years. Man Utd have become a shadow of themselves since Sir Alex Ferguson left back in 2013 and do not even finish in the Premier League top four nowadays, while Liverpool won the Premier League and the Champions League under Jurgen Klopp and became the champions of England again last season under Arne Slot.

However, it seems that one of the Premier League’s best young midfielders still wants to join Man Utd over Liverpool, according to a report.

Man Utd wanted to sign Carlos Baleba from Brighton and Hove Albion in the summer transfer window, but the Seagulls refused to sell him.

TEAMtalk’s transfer insider, Dean Jones, has reported that Man Utd remain keen on Baleba, who is valued at over £100million (€115m, $134m) by his club Brighton.

Sources have told us that a January move is unlikely, with Liverpool also joining the race for the 21-year-old.

Jones has said that there is ‘admiration’ from Liverpool for Baleba, with the defending Premier League champions’ viewing the Cameroon international as ‘an ideal fit to play as the No.6 in Slot’s midfield’.

Sports Boom has now reported that Tottenham Hotspur have joined Man Utd and Liverpool in the race for Baleba.

Tottenham manager Thomas Frank is said to be a ‘big fan’ of Baleba, with last season’s Europa League winners having already ‘reached out about the possibility of striking a deal’.

According to the report, Man Utd is Baleba’s ‘preferred destination’ when the transfer window reopens in January.

DON’T MISS ➡️ Transfer Debrief: Harry Kane’s spectacular Tottenham return; Next Man Utd manager; Newcastle want THIRD new striker

Man Utd stance on Carlos Baleba after disappointing performances

Baleba has not been in great form for Brighton this season, with the midfielder failing to reach the heights he did in the 2024/25 campaign.

The Cameroon international has made four starts and one substitute appearance in the Premier League for Brighton this season, with the Seagulls picking up just five points from those games.

Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler said on September 21 when asked if Man Utd’s interest in Balaba has affected, as quoted in The Manchester Evening News: “It’s all a lot of theory. We can only guess.

“For sure, when a young boy reads that there’s interest from Manchester United with a big, big offer, it might affect him deep.

“Even if he’s not saying; ‘It affects me’, maybe deep inside of him, there is something that affects him.

“It’s also part of the development, to understand when you play well and a big club comes, to keep pushing, and to stay humble, to stay at Brighton and make the next step as a team.

“And that’s something we have to keep on working with him and so, therefore, I can’t give you a clear answer if it’s really affected him or not.”

Man Utd, though, remain keen on Baleba despite his recent struggles.

Journalist Graeme Bailey told United In Focus: “United are already well advanced with their planning for 2026 and midfield is the priority.

“We can’t rule out more than one incoming given Casemiro’s likely exit and also the fact that the futures of Kobbie Mainoo and Bruno Fernandes are far from certain.

“United have done work on this area and Baleba is the man who they really think is ideal.

“They are fans of the likes of Adam Wharton, Conor Gallagher, Morten Hjulmand – let’s not rule out them bringing in two.

“Baleba has endured a tough start, but with an injury and links to United – there is little concern that he remains the best option in the long-term.”

Latest Man Utd news: Nottingham Forest raid, Barcelona move

Baleba is not the only midfielder that Liverpool and Man Utd are competing over.

A Nottingham Forest star has also emerged as a transfer target for Liverpool and Man Utd, with his club’s stance clear.

While Baleba would be a player for the here and now, Man Utd are set to sign a goalkeeper from Derby County for the long term.

Meanwhile, Barcelona are planning to raid Man Utd for a midfielder who wanted to leave in the summer transfer window.

Tottenham Hotspur are very keen on re-signing Harry Kane from Bayern Munich and could seal a deal if the striker forces an exit, Manchester United have chosen their ‘top choice’ to replace under-pressure manager Ruben Amorim, and Newcastle United want to sign a striker from one of Europe’s biggest clubs – all in this week’s exclusive TEAMtalk Transfer Debrief.

HARRY KANE OPEN TO TOTTENHAM RETURN

Kane’s future at Bayern Munich has been one of the hottest topics this week, after it emerged that the forward can leave the Bundesliga champions for €65m (£56.7m / $76.7m) next summer.

The one caveat is that Kane must announce his intention to leave before the end of the January transfer window.

The England captain is yet to voice any desire to leave Bayern, but the situation has put Tottenham and two other clubs on alert.

TEAMtalk transfer insider Dean Jones exclusively revealed on September 22 that Spurs would ‘love’ to bring Kane back to North London. Chelsea, meanwhile, have been interested in the forward for many years. The main competition for Kane could come from Barcelona, however, who view him as a potential replacement for Robert Lewandowski, who could leave the Camp Nou next summer.

In a bombshell update on September 23, Jones revealed that Kane would be open to rejoining Tottenham – but only if they have Champions League football on offer.

And what’s more, Kane’s release clause, if triggered by the player, is understood to be ‘completely in range’ for Spurs, and matching that fee wouldn’t hinge upon any takeover going through first.

The big question, however, is timing. Kane is in superb form for Bayern, who are fighting for trophies on domestic and European fronts. Whether he’d want to leave next summer – when his full focus will be on the World Cup with England – still remains to be seen.

TEAMtalk understands that Kane is keen to return to Tottenham in the future, and the 32-year-old would like the chance to tie up the Premier League goals record, too. Kane trails Alan Shearer by 47 goals.

MAN UTD CHOOSE IDEAL RUBEN AMORIM SUCCESSOR

Man Utd find themselves in a worryingly similar situation this summer, with pressure mounting on Ruben Amorim after some poor performances and results.

The Red Devils currently sit 11th in the Premier League table after picking up seven points from seven games so far. Within those matches was losses to Arsenal and rivals Manchester City, and they also suffered an embarrassing Carabao Cup exit at the hands of Grimsby Town.

TEAMtalk insider Fraser Fletcher exclusively revealed on September 24 that while Amorim retains the backing of the board for now, they are already looking at potential replacements.

We understand that Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has been identified as the ‘top choice’ to replace Amorim should his position become untenable.

The Spanish coach led the Cherries to a mid-table finish in the Premier League last term and despite losing some very important players over the summer, the south coast club currently sit fourth in the table after a fantastic start to the campaign.

However, Man Utd are not alone in their admiration. Sources state that Manchester City and Chelsea are also big fans of Iraola, though they have no plans currently to part ways with Pep Guardiola and Enzo Maresca respectively.

Of the Premier League trio, Man Utd seem the most likely to change managers this season.

NEWCASTLE EYE 114-GOAL STRIKER

Newcastle United signed two new strikers over the summer after losing Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson – bringing in Yoane Wissa from Brentford and Nick Woltemade from Stuttgart.

Wissa is yet to make his Magpies debut after picking up a knee injury, but Woltemade got off to a flying start by scoring on his debut against Wolves two weeks ago.

However, TEAMtalk insider Jones reported on September 22 that Newcastle are one of several clubs ‘in the picture’ to sign Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic.

The Serbia international, who moved to Juventus in a €70m switch from Fiorentina in January 2022, is now in the final year of his contract at the Allianz Stadium. And with Vlahovic prepared to weigh up his options in January, serious talks over his future are expected before the end of the year.

Newcastle have asked to be kept informed of the situation and could emerge as a potential destination for the striker, who has 114 career goals to his name from 285 appearances.

Man Utd continue to be linked with a move for Vlahovic, but, according to sources, there has been no meaningful progress from Old Trafford.

Chelsea and Tottenham have both made enquiries, while West Ham are also understood to have explored the possibility of a deal too, with club chiefs concerned by their lack of threat in attack.

ARSENAL’S ARTETA PROMISE / GRAVENBERCH UPDATE AND MORE…

Arsenal’s board have promised Mikel Arteta that he will be given £100m to spend in January as they aim to lift the Premier League title this season.

Liverpool are open to offering a new contract to midfielder Ryan Gravenberch as they anticipate future interest in his signature, with Real Madrid among his suitors.

Sean Dyche is ‘itching’ to return to management and is open to replacing West Ham boss Graham Potter, whose future may hinge on the Hammers’ clash with Everton on Monday.

Nuno Espirito Santo is reluctant to agree to a short-term contract with West Ham, whereas former manager Slaven Bilic is open to penning a contract until the end of this season.

Tottenham are keen to bring in a new centre-back in January, with Man City star Manuel Akanji and Brentford’s Nathan Collins among those being looked at.

Everton star Dwight McNeil is facing an uncertain future at the club and a potential January exit after falling down the pecking order under David Moyes.

Atletico Madrid star Conor Gallagher is open to a Premier League return, with Man Utd and Tottenham among the clubs linked.

Man Utd are keen to bring in a new midfielder and wing-back in January.

Chelsea remain interested in AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan, with Maresca not fully convinced by Robert Sanchez as his No 1.

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery retains the backing of the board following the exit of sporting director Monchi.