TEAMtalk

Tottenham great Chris Waddle believes Mohammed Kudus is a ‘wonderful’ player and is destined to achieve big things with Spurs, though there could still be ‘question marks’ about his mentality, while he has also dropped his verdict on what Thomas Frank should aim for this season.

Tottenham signed Kudus from West Ham United over the summer for a fee of £55m, and he has started all seven of Spurs’ Premier League games so far this term.

The 25-year-old, who can play as an attacking midfielder or winger on either flank, scored his first goal for Tottenham against Leeds last weekend, and has notched five assists in the league thus far.

In an exclusive interview with TEAMtalk, in partnership with BestBettingSites.com, Waddle said Kudus still needs to prove himself, and also pointed out similarities between his game and the Ghanaian’s.

“I can definitely see the comparisons. Left-footed, coming inside, dropping his shoulder. I can see why people might say we’re similar. He’s a wonderful footballer, and I love watching him,” Waddle said.

“He’s very exciting, very skilful, can score goals, and he should probably score more than he does. One question about him might be that he almost disappeared last season [for West Ham] after a brilliant debut campaign after he joined from Ajax.

“Is there a question mark over his mentality or desire? We know he’s got all the attributes to be a top player and he seems to have come out the blocks very quick, as he did at West Ham. So we’ll have to wait and see on that.

“He sort of lost his way at West Ham. I don’t know what happened there, whether he got disillusioned or fell out with the coach, or didn’t like the position he was playing.

“But he’s at Tottenham now. He’s got to prove himself, which he is doing. I’ve always been a great believer that you judge players over three, four seasons. You don’t judge a player over three months.

“We know his first season at West Ham was great. His second season wasn’t very good. So we’ll wait and see. But definitely I can see why Tottenham fans have taken to him straight away. And if he keeps performing the way he is, then Tottenham’s definitely got a bargain on their hands…”

‘I felt sorry for Ange… but you need a plan B’

We also asked Waddle on his expectations for Tottenham this season, and whether they could push for the Premier League title.

Spurs currently sit third in the table, just two points behind leaders Arsenal, after picking up 14 points from seven games so far.

However, he believes a title-winning campaign may be a step too far for Frank’s team this time around.

“They’ve got to look at the top four, top five. I don’t know what gets you into the Champions League this year, but you’ll be thinking that is the target,” Waddle said.

“They’ve got to be looking at establishing themselves in the top five. Last year was a disaster in the league. I know they won the Europa League, but domestically, they were absolutely disastrous. With the players they had, they should never have been in the bottom five, bottom six, wherever it was. For a club like Tottenham, that’s unacceptable.

“Now they’ve brought in Frank and he has stabilised it. He’s not necessarily playing the Tottenham way, I suppose, but I think he looks at the opposition and he works tactics out and I think that’s what Tottenham need. All good teams have that ability to match an opponent. Last year was a bit gung-ho and we didn’t know what was going to happen. The players lost their way.

“The only thing I’d say in defence of Ange was that he got a hell of a lot of injuries. It was hard for Ange to get his side out, to play regularly and get to know each other. So on that side, I felt sorry for him. But again, he never had a plan B.

“I think the managers have got to have that in their locker these days. Thomas studies the opposition with his staff and they look at each game as they come along, and they adapt.”

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Latest Tottenham news: Palhinha deal approved / Semenyo wanted

Meanwhile, TEAMtalk transfer insider Dean Jones has revealed that Bayern Munich have given Tottenham clearance to push through the permanent signing of Joao Palhinha.

The 30-year-old midfielder joined Spurs on a season-long loan in early August, with the deal containing an option to make permanent for €30m (£26m, $35m).

Palhinha’s impressive performances have led to speculation that Bayern could recall him, but we understand that is not being considered, with Tottenham highly likely to trigger their buy option, potentially before the end of the campaign.

In other news, TEAMtalk correspondent Fraser Fletcher has confirmed that Tottenham remain big admirers of Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo, with a bid under consideration.

Liverpool are also fans of the winger, so Spurs may face competition should they pursue a transfer.

Bayern Munich have given Thomas Frank clearance to push through the permanent signing of Joao Palhinha, sources have confirmed, after the midfielder made his feelings crystal clear about how he feels about life under the Dane at Tottenham Hotspur.

The experienced midfielder joined Tottenham on a season’s loan in early August, with the deal containing an option to make permanent for €30m (£26m, $35m) if he impresses. Following a season of frustration under Vincent Kompany at Bayern Munich, where he only made 25 appearances across all competitions, a move was very much seen as being in everyone’s best interests.

And the former Fulham man has taken his opportunity with both hands, proving the perfect man to anchor the Tottenham midfield, where he has featured in every game across league, cups and Europe, racking up 11 appearances so far, eight of which have been as starts.

That good form has also seen Palhinha score three goals, having drawn a blank during his time in Germany, and now only one shy of his best-ever tally in English football, where he twice hit four goals with the Cottagers.

That has led to speculation that a recall to Bayern could be on the cards.

However, sources have told us the Bundesliga champions currently have no plans to reintegrate Palhinha into their set-up.

In fact, after he struggled to make an impression in Germany, Bayern have no plans to recall him and we’ve been informed that their intention is to move the player on either next summer, or sooner, should Spurs wish.

We’ve also been told that Palhinha, who admits to feeling complete again in London, is loving his role at the centre of Frank’s side.

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Bayern stance on Palhinha as star makes Spurs feelings clear

Spurs, understandably, are very much interested in taking up the option on making his move permanent – and we understand they have had reassurances that Bayern Munich currently do not intend to give him a fresh chance to make a breakthrough.

They are very happy with their current midfield combinations, and sources do not believe they will attempt to bring him back.

It is great news for Spurs, who believe they are now on course to sign him at a bargain price in comparison to his true market value.

Palhinha himself has admitted his love for Spurs during an interview while on international duty with Portugal this week and he admits he owes Frank a great deal.

“[Last season] was a difficult season for me. I was injured and was out for longer than I’d expected,” he told the Portuguese media.

“After that, I didn’t get the chances I think I deserved [at Bayern], which also had an impact on my playing time with the national team.

“But these are phases. Our careers thrive on phases. Now, I’m going through a happy phase. A new club, a new project, in a league that’s not new to me and that I’m enjoying again.”

Hinting he is ready to make the move permanent, the 30-year-old continued: “At Tottenham, I’ve had chances I didn’t have before. I feel complete confidence in the people who wanted me to join the club. In this case, the manager.

“When we feel this confidence and that we’re wanted somewhere, I think that’s where we should be. I made this decision very easily.

“These chances are making me once again show what I’m capable of. I’m very happy with this new challenge and just want to enjoy the Premier League to the fullest.”

Tottenham latest: MLS side make Spurs star top target; Semenyo signing chances assessed

Meanwhile, an ambitious MLS side have presented their vision to a Tottenham attacker and Fabrizio Romano has offered a hint as to whether their audacious play will succeed.

On the incoming front, Tottenham will try to properly assess the level of competition before committing to a bid for Antoine Semenyo in 2026, but still view the attacker as a target despite his loftier-than-ever asking price, TEAMtalk understands.

Elsewhere, Tottenham Hotspur are among the clubs interested in a top Real Madrid midfielder, per reports in Spain, though we can explain why the chances of landing the highly-rated star look bleak to say the least.

Tottenham will try to properly assess the level of competition before committing to a bid for Antoine Semenyo in 2026, but still view the attacker as a target, TEAMtalk understands.

Sources believe they are currently the club most interested in signing him, but with an exit still some way off, there is expected to be a battle for his signature when the time comes.

Semenyo has started the season brilliantly, notching six goals and three assists in seven Premier League appearances, which has only ramped up the transfer speculation.

Manchester United remain keen on Semenyo, but an offer will depend on the state of their squad build in the moment – as well as their league position.

It is thought the Red Devils consider him a good long-term signing regardless of who the manager is when a move becomes possible, as speculation surrounding Ruben Amorim continues.

As TEAMtalk correspondent Fraser Fletcher revealed yesterday (October 8), attention from Liverpool towards Semenyo is also expected to grow.

Manchester City and Aston Villa are also tracking the 25-year-old this season. Meanwhile, it is unclear if he is still wanted by Chelsea, as they plot the next phase of their team build and have other priorities.

The market value of Semenyo is going to play a big part in where he ends up – but Spurs may not be afraid of current speculation that Bournemouth rate him in the £100milllion bracket…

Tottenham could spend big on Semenyo

We are heading towards a time when Tottenham can push the boat out financially, with new levels of investment in Thomas Frank’s side anticipated.

Sources still believe Semenyo will not quite reach the £100m level – but accept Bournemouth are in a strong position to place him very high in the market, given he is contracted until 2030.

Tottenham should also be in a good position on a personal level too, with their wage structure expected to start to suit a battle for top talent better than it did when Daniel Levy was at the club.

But even if they are able to compete at new levels in the transfer market, it is expected they retain a sense of calm and do not unnecessarily overpay for new signings.

There have been some reports in recent days that Semenyo could become available in the January window if his high valuation is met.

TEAMtalk sources are cautious, however, and still believe a move will probably not open up until the end of the season.

Spurs are hoping to use well placed intermediaries to get a good understanding of what it will take to sign him in advance of any approach.

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Latest Tottenham news: Barcelona battle / Mikey Moore recall update

Meanwhile, Barcelona have reportedly joined Tottenham in the race to sign Porto striker Samu Aghehowa, as Frank looks to bolster his frontline.

According to reports from Spain, Barca ‘want to sign’ Samu as Lewandowski’s replacement and are ‘preparing an ambitious move’ for him ready for summer 2026.

Barca scouts have identified Samu as ‘the ideal heir’ to Lewandowski, having been amazed by his performances in Portugal.

In other news, TEAMtalk understands that Tottenham will wait to see how Rangers progress under their next manager before making a decision on the future of loanee Mikey Moore, amid murmurs that they could recall him.

The winger has failed to make a big impact at Ibrox, and could fall down the pecking order under a new boss, with Steven Gerrard the favourite to replace the sacked Russell Martin.

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An ambitious MLS side have presented their vision to a Tottenham attacker and Fabrizio Romano has offered a hint as to whether their audacious play will succeed.

Thomas Frank’s arrival in north London has breathed new life into the careers of many a Tottenham star. Among those to have benefitted greatly from the Dane’s appointment is Richarlison.

The Brazilian frontman struggled with injuries under Ange Postecoglou and when fit, made little-to-no impact on the pitch anyway.

With Dominic Solanke sidelined with ankle issues, Richarlison has often led the line for Spurs in the early going this season and has already scored three times in the Premier League. He’s just one goal shy of matching his tally from last season’s campaign.

Richarlison is contracted to Tottenham until the summer of 2027. His future – and whether or not Spurs push for an extension – will come under the microscope in the near future.

And according to the latest from transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Richarlison’s next move could see the Brazilian cross the Atlantic.

Following up on news broken by ESPN, Romano provided an in-depth update on the play Orlando City have made to snatch Richarlison in the summer of 2026.

“Orlando from MLS made… not a contract proposal, but a long-term vision approach for Richarlison,” said Romano on his YouTube channel.

“Orlando with their directors arrived in London in the recent days and met with people close to Richarlison to present a potential project for the future.

“So Orlando have an interest and ambition in trying to sign Richarlison.

“It’s still very early, no formal proposal, no financial terms discussed… basically what Orlando wanted to do was to tell Richarlison ‘we like you, we’re interested in you, let’s see what’s going to happen for the near future.’

“So Orlando have genuine interest in Richarlison.”

What happens next with Richarlison?

As mentioned, Richarlison is among those thriving under new boss Frank, but that situation could change when Solanke is fit.

Richarlison is capable of occupying a position on the flanks too, but again, the wide positions are fluid at Spurs right now, with TEAMtalk learning Tottenham are ready to bid big for Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo next year.

In any case, what is clear is Orlando’s ambitious play only stands a chance of succeeding if Richarlison’s standing in north London declines.

Romano added: “It depends on what’s going to happen with Tottenham because for Spurs he’s still an important player. Considered important internally.

“Orlando can’t pay an important transfer fee and this is why it’s an unlikely story for today, but for the future keep an eye on Orlando.

“They have genuine interest in Richarlison and that could be an interesting story to follow for the Brazilian’s future.”

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Antoine Semenyo faces a huge dilemma over which club to sign for next after sources spelt out Liverpool’s plans to make him Mo Salah’s heir as well as admiration from Pep Guardiola – but the next bid on the table, could come from Tottenham Hotspur, sources have revealed.

Semenyo’s meteoric rise at Bournemouth has set the Premier League alight, with Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester City, and Liverpool locked in a fierce battle to prise the dynamic forward from the south coast.

The 25-year-old Ghanaian has been a revelation in the 25-26 campaign, bagging six goals and three assists in eight Premier League matches, propelling Bournemouth to a surprise top-six spot. His blend of raw pace, lethal finishing, and relentless energy has transformed him into one of the division’s hottest properties, and the vultures are circling.

Tottenham’s interest is no secret. Having targeted Semenyo in the summer – only to be thwarted by Bournemouth’s firm stance and their pursuit of other wingers like Mohammed Kudus – Spurs are gearing up for a renewed January push.

Thomas Frank sees the versatile attacker, capable of thriving on either flank, as the perfect fit for his philosophy. With doubts lingering over Brennan Johnson’s consistency, a bid exceeding £60million could test Bournemouth’s resolve, especially as Semenyo’s market value soars.

Liverpool, meanwhile, are plotting to bolster their forward line, with Semenyo eyed as a long-term complement to Mohamed Salah.

Despite heavy investment in attacking options like Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike, Arne Slot’s squad demands depth to sustain their title challenge.

Semenyo’s ability to drift in from the right and deliver in clutch moments mirrors Salah’s game, making him an ideal understudy. Sources suggest Liverpool’s recruitment team, led by former Bournemouth chief Richard Hughes, is confident of leveraging past ties to lure the forward to Anfield.

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Man City seen as ‘formidable threat’ as Bournemouth stance is revealed

Manchester City’s interest adds further intrigue. Pep Guardiola, always on the hunt for players to refine his tactical machine, views Semenyo’s directness and technical polish as tailor-made for his system.

City see the Bournemouth star as a potential game-changer on the wings. Though less vocal than their rivals, City’s history of decisive mid-season moves makes them a formidable threat.

Bournemouth, however, are standing firm. Semenyo’s contract, extended until 2030 after he rebuffed approaches from Newcastle (who also still hold interest) and Arsenal last summer, gives the Cherries immense leverage.

Valued at upwards of £75m, the club is under no pressure to sell mid-season, with manager Andoni Iraola building a project around his star man.

“Antoine’s integral to our vision,” a club source insisted. “We’re chasing Europe, and he’s not going anywhere easily.”

Semenyo himself is torn.

The former Bristol City gem, who once trialled at Crystal Palace, craves the chance to shine on the biggest stages – be it the Champions League or a Premier League title race.

His 13-goal haul across all competitions last season was a prelude to his current dominance, but loyalty to Iraola, who has elevated him to new heights, weighs heavily.

As January approaches, whispers of a potential move grow louder, with Semenyo’s camp open to exploring options if a top club meets Bournemouth’s steep demands.

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On the subject of Salah, we’ve taken a deep dive into his struggles at Anfield in recent weeks, naming eight reasons behind his poor form under Slot right now. We’ve also asked if a 2026 sale could be on the cards amid claims from a transfer journalist…

Over at City, the Cityzens are being tipped to submit a €60million (£52m) offer for a Real Madrid star, and TEAMtalk analysing Rodri’s chances of heading in the opposite direction.

Barcelona have joined Tottenham Hotspur in the race for Porto star Samu Aghehowa, with TEAMtalk able to confirm speculation from a new report, while Deco has been quizzed on what could happen with Robert Lewandowski.

Barcelona made a statement in summer 2022 when they captured Lewandowski from Bayern Munich in a €50million (£43m) deal. The striker has continued his remarkable scoring feats in Spain, having hit 105 goals in 156 appearances for Barca so far.

Lewandowski netted 42 times last season as Barca won a stunning domestic treble and reached the semi-finals of the Champions League.

But there is increasing talk of Lewandowski leaving Catalonia at the end of the current campaign. He is now 37 years old and Barca are well aware they will need to move on from him at some stage in the near future.

Plus, the Pole’s contract expires at the end of the season and Barca have yet to decide firmly whether they want him to renew or leave on a free transfer.

According to Spanish source Fichajes, Barca ‘want to sign’ Samu as Lewandowski’s replacement and are ‘preparing an ambitious move’ for him ready for summer 2026.

Barca scouts have identified Samu as ‘the ideal heir’ to Lewandowski, having been amazed by his performances in Portugal.

Samu has already managed five goals in seven outings this term, while he finished last season with 27 goals across all competitions.

Plus, at just 21 years of age the Spaniard has plenty of time to develop into a truly elite centre-forward.

Samu has a €100m (£87m) release clause in his contract, which runs for another four years. Barca, though, ‘hope Porto will agree to negotiate’ and are therefore drawing up an initial bid worth €60m (£52m).

While TEAMtalk cannot confirm that Barca are preparing a bid for Samu, sources have revealed to our transfer correspondent Fraser Fletcher that they are interested in signing him.

Such a move could kickstart a bidding war with Tottenham. TEAMtalk’s Dean Jones confirmed on September 30 that Tottenham are scouting Samu ahead of a future swoop to improve their forward line.

Thomas Frank is known to be keen on signing a new No 9. Richarlison is not viewed as an elite goalscorer while Dominic Solanke has been affected by injury issues.

Tottenham remain open to the idea of reuniting with Harry Kane, should he opt to return to the Premier League, though they also like Samu a lot.

Samu is viewed by Spurs as a player who could emerge into one of the very best strikers in Europe once he reaches his full potential.

In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, Barca sporting director Deco was asked about Lewandowski’s situation and the potential arrival of a new striker.

He replied: “We’re not going to talk about renewals in October. We’re going step by step. He’s one of the best forwards of recent years, a top-level player. He’s helped us a lot.

“He’s scored more than 40 goals, but we’ll analyse that later. It’s time to talk about recovering injured players.

“You don’t have to obsess over a No 9, you might be wrong. Perhaps you can do it without a 9. This isn’t the time to talk about signings. Ferran [Torres] can play as a 9.

“PSG won the Champions League without a penalty area player. Talking about a 9 is a bit of a mistake, although there are good players.”

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Barca’s dream signing for the striker position is understood to be either Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez or Manchester City ace Erling Haaland.

Barca believe Alvarez wants to emulate Argentine compatriot Lionel Messi by leading them to the biggest prizes.

However, both of those players will likely cost €200m (£173m) or more.

Plus, Pep Guardiola insists Haaland wants to see out the majority of his mega nine-and-a-half-year contract with City.

Samu may not be on the same level of Alvarez or Haaland, but he will be easier to sign from a financial perspective.

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Meanwhile, TEAMtalk has analysed where a top City player could end up amid interest from five clubs including Barca and Juventus.

Real Madrid and Barca are both thought to be keeping tabs on Karl Etta Eyong, one of the best young players in LaLiga.

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The future of Mikey Moore could hinge on Rangers’ next managerial appointment, as TEAMtalk sources assess the murmurs of a potential Tottenham recall from his loan at Ibrox.

The 18-year-old exploded onto the scene for Spurs last season under Ange Postecoglou, making 19 senior appearances across all competitions, notching his first goal and two assists.

Moore remains very highly rated by Tottenham, and the loan switch to Rangers was seen as a good way for him to play consistently and hone his potential.

However, with zero goal contributions in 10 appearances for the Gers and the sacking of Russell Martin, whether Moore continues his journey in Scotland could depend on which manager they bring in next.

TEAMtalk insider Dean Jones has shared Tottenham’s true feelings about Moore’s situation, following his difficult start at Ibrox.

“There was a good feeling about Moore making the move to Rangers but it has been difficult for him to shine on the pitch during a period of crisis and revolt,” Jones exclusively told TEAMtalk.

“It’s still a huge learning experience for him and I know there remains hope that he experiences more positive times but they have to make sure this next phase under a new manager is helpful to him.

“There has been a fair few people questioning up there whether he is the right fit for them, but that probably comes with the fact that he is still so young and Rangers fans feel they are developing another clubs player – and in times of crisis you want to have your own players digging in and getting the side out of trouble.

“He will be learning a lot about the pressures of top level football and Spurs are in touch with him throughout to see how he is coping with the situation.

“There have been some murmurs about whether they should look into bringing him back. The club are trying their best to make sure he has a future pathway into the team at Spurs so we will have to see what happens with the the next Rangers manager before understanding what can happen to keep this stage of his career moving forwards.”

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Rangers looking to appoint new manager imminently

Amid the uncertainty over Moore’s future, TEAMtalk correspondent Fraser Fletcher has revealed the latest on Rangers’ manager hunt.

The Scottish giants want a new manager in post as soon as possible so they can get to know the squad over the international break, which could be crucial in turning their form around quickly.

We understand that former Gers boss Steven Gerrard, who led the club to the Scottish Premiership title in 2020/21, is under serious consideration.

Gerrard is open to returning to the Ibrox hot seat if he is given assurances that he will be given backing and freedom to pursue his own transfer targets in January.

Of course, should Rangers look to bring in a new winger in January, that could see Moore’s minutes diminish and force Tottenham to seriously consider recalling him.

For now, the youngster’s future hangs in the balance, but Spurs will prioritise his development and assess the situation closely over the coming weeks.

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Latest Tottenham news: Valverde links assessed / Loanee targeted

Meanwhile, TEAMtalk has explained why Real Madrid star Federico Valverde would likely snub a move to Tottenham amid speculation that they could submit an offer for the Uruguayan.

Defensa Central, a Real Madrid-centric website, has gone as far as to claim that Tottenham ‘would be willing’ to pay €100million (£87m, $117m) for Valverde in the summer of 2026.

Valverde wants to compete for trophies and that makes a switch to Spurs unlikely at this stage. There is also the matter of Tottenham being willing to pay Valverde’s salary, which is €320,577 per week (£278,322), according to Capology.

In other news, TEAMtalk insider Jones has revealed that Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig are keeping close tabs on Tottenham centre-back Luka Vuskovic, who is on loan with Hamburg.

Tottenham Hotspur are among the clubs interested in Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde, according to reports in Spain, but there is no way that the Uruguay international would swap the Santiago Bernabeu for Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Valverde has been at Madrid since 2016 and has been a huge success at the Spanish and European giants. The Uruguay international midfielder has won LaLiga thrice and the Champions League twice with Los Blancos, while scoring 32 goals and giving 34 assists in 332 appearances.

The 27-year-old midfielder is under contract at Real Madrid until 2029 and, to all intents and purposes, is happy at the club.

Both Valverde and Madrid manager Xabi Alonso recently put to bed the controversy that he had complained about playing at right-back, with the Santiago Bernabeu faithful also chanting his name against Villarreal in LaLiga last weekend.

There are reports, though, that Tottenham and Manchester United are interested in Valverde.

Fichajes, admittedly not one of the most reliable news outlets, have reported that Tottenham are keen on Valverde.

Defensa Central, a Real Madrid-centric website, has gone as far as to claim that Tottenham ‘would be willing’ to pay €100million (£87m, $117m) for Valverde in the summer of 2026.

While one should be wary of taking these reports as gospel truth, one must remember that Tottenham bid €70m (£61m, $82m) for Como star Nico Paz in the summer, as reported by the reliable Fabrizio Romano, suggesting that the north London club are not shying away from splashing the cash.

However, it is hard to envisage a situation where Valverde leaves a club used to winning LaLiga and the Champions League to a side that has won just one major trophy in the past 17 years.

Tottenham do not challenge for the Premier League title, with the north London club not in with a chance of winning the Champions League either.

For Valverde, leaving Madrid for Tottenham would be a step down, especially as he is 27 and is at the top of his career.

There is also the small matter of Tottenham being willing to pay Valverde’s salary, which is €320,577 per week (£278,322), according to Capology.

At the moment, Cristian Romero and Xavi Simons are Tottenham’s highest-paid players at £195,000 per week.

Furthermore, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez does not want to sell Valverde for anything less than his release clause, which is €1billion (£871.5m, $1.07bn).

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Federico Valverde will NOT join Man Utd either

It is not just Tottenham that Valverde will not fancy a move to, with Manchester United also out of the picture for a player former Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti described as “irreplaceable”.

TEAMtalk’s transfer insider, Dean Jones, has played down suggestions that, like the likes of Casemiro and Raphael Varane in recent years, Valverde will not leave Madrid for Man Utd.

Jones said: “There feels pretty much no chance United will sign Valverde – even as the noise grows that they want to.

“That’s the message I’m getting from people close to the Spanish end of this story and it’s not really surprising.

“He’s been around the club for almost 10 years now and has become a brilliant, crucial and adaptable player for them.

“There is no need for him to drop down a level to join Man United, and that’s truly what it would be.

“His profile would be great for United, but it just seems too ambitious to me.

“The clubs may be on a similar level in terms of global status, but Madrid’s current team is in a much better place than United’s and he is a key part of it.”

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Valverde is not the only Madrid star who has been linked with clubs in the Premier League, with Rodrygo also the subject of Arsenal, Tottenham and Man City in the summer of 2025.

However, Rodrygo has revealed that he did not want to leave Real Madrid and has disclosed his ultimate dream – and it involves Barcelona.

Meanwhile, one of Chelsea’s best players wants to join Real Madrid, with a report in the Spanish media claiming that it is ‘dream’ to play for Los Blancos.

And finally, Real Madrid are planning to deploy old tricks THIS WEEK to convince Ibrahima Konate to snub a new contract offer from Liverpool.

Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig are to keep a close eye on Luka Vuskovic over the coming weeks as the Tottenham Hotspur loanee makes his mark in Germany, TEAMtalk can reveal.

Centre-back Vuskovic, 18, is spending the season on loan at Hamburg and has completed the full 90 minutes in each of his four appearances so far. His impressive form has helped Hamburg tighten up defensively, with back-to-back clean sheets against Union Berlin and Mainz.

The youngster is highly regarded at Tottenham, who are believed to see this campaign as a key part of his development.

Spurs secured Vuskovic on a long-term deal before officially bringing him to north London earlier this year, and the plan has been to give him time to grow through experience at a very good level.

His upcoming fixtures could provide an interesting period as, after the international break, Hamburg face RB Leipzig before taking on Borussia Dortmund a few weeks later – two clubs that have tracked Vuskovic’s progress through his early years.

Both Bundesliga sides are known for identifying and nurturing young talent, and Vuskovic’s rise has not gone unnoticed.

While Spurs view him as a long-term project, interest in his development – and any potential future opportunities – is only likely to increase if he continues to shine in Germany.

Vuskovic opened his account for Hamburg against Heidenheim in the Bundesliga on September 20, smashing home from close range after a penalty-box scramble. That goal sent Hamburg on their way to a first top-flight win in seven years following a disappointing period in Germany’s second tier.

As per WhoScored, Vuskovic has been Hamburg’s best player in the early stages of the season, picking up an average rating of 7.72.

The teenager was born in Split, Croatia and went on to make 11 first-team appearances for Hajduk Split after graduating from their academy.

Spurs announced in September 2023 that they had agreed a deal to sign Vuskovic in 2025, reportedly worth £12million.

He had loan spells in Poland and Belgium before arriving at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium earlier this year.

Vuskovic’s Spurs contract runs until June 2030, showing that the club trusts him as a long-term asset.

Tottenham news: Brazilian targeted; ‘Rolls-Royce’ eyed too

Meanwhile, Spurs have reportedly barged their rivals aside in the chase for a Brazilian forward.

Thomas Frank’s side are also thought to be keen on signing a Crystal Palace star.

He has been described as a ‘Rolls Royce’, in praise which will excite Spurs fans.

Tottenham Hotspur are said to have barged rivals aside in their efforts to sign an elite Brazilian talent, with the north London club given the nod over how much the player will cost and their hopes of securing a January deal.

The club are actively looking for at least one new winger in the January window, with both Brennan Johnson and Wilson Odobert failing to match anything like the level of performance that Mohammed Kudus and been showing.

And, while the left side is the main focus of attention, Tottenham will not turn down the chance to snap up quality young talent when it becomes available, even if one such talent, 19-year-old Brazilian Rayan, does most of his best work off the right flank.

It’s been reported that Spurs scouts made a trip to South America last week to watch Vasco Da Gama winger Rayan, who has been setting the Brazilian top-flight alight this season.

The teenager is thought to have a release clause of €40m (£34.3m) in his contract, although it has emerged over recent days that Spurs could face competition from the likes of Chelsea, Brighton and Nottingham Forest for Rayan’s signature.

While Calciomercato reports that there could be an auction for the teenager in January, Tottenham are said to have jumped to the front of the queue for his signature.

While Spurs are not expected to have to match that release clause, it’s thought they will have to bid between €20m-€30m (£17.4m-£26.1m) to convince Vasco to sell their starlet.

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Rayan talks with Tottenham already taken place

The report adds that representatives of Tottenham have already spoken to the teenager’s agents over a January switch to N17, in their efforts to get a jump over their rivals.

Indeed, recent reports from Brazil also claim Spurs have done groundwork on securing a work permit ahead of a new year move.

The fact that Rayan is on the brink of winning a call-up to the senior Brazil set-up will also make a permit easier to attain.

If Tottenham do win the race for Rayan, he’s expected to go straight into Frank’s first-team squad and compete for a bench role.

In terms of his playing style, Rayan is a left-footed attacker who is pacy, powerful and technically gifted.

He has played the majority of games in his young career so far on either the right of a front three or as a more traditional right-sided midfielder.

However, there is hope that he could eventually transition to the left and give Frank another option there after Son Heung-min’s exit over the summer.

Latest Tottenham news: Centre-back swoop; Semenyo price tag

Tottenham are being tipped to make a spectacular January raid on a London rival for a high-quality central defender, who might just force the normally flexible Thomas Frank into making a permanent formation change.

Meanwhile, Tottenham’s big-money summer signing Mohammed Kudus delivered a performance of the highest quality as Leeds were beaten 2-1 on Saturday afternoon, proving Thomas Frank wise to sign him.

And finally, Tottenham have been told it will take a club record fee to sign a rival Premier League attacker, and TEAMtalk looks into how he could usurp a summer signing in the Spurs side.