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Tottenham star Dejan Kulusevski has referenced prior advice from former Juventus teammate Cristiano Ronaldo when offering insight into his step up in levels this season.

Kulusevski was originally signed by Tottenham to play on the right wing, though he’s since proven a revelation upon being converted into a central playmaker this season. The Swede has continued his excellent form through the international break while captaining his country in the recent clashes with Slovakia and Estonia.

When asked by the Swedish media what’s changed for him on the mental side of things this term, Kulusevski cited an old piece of advice from ex-Juventus teammate, Cristiano Ronaldo.

“To not be satisfied with being good, but to be the best every day,” said Kulusevski, per Fotboll Skanalen. “That’s the only thing that matters. As hard as it is to try to be the best.

“I think that you learn over time, that you begin to understand much more about how the world and the brain work. You can’t be 17 and know everything.

“Yes, I always change. I’m starting to get to know my body. When I was younger, I didn’t understand when [Cristiano] Ronaldo told me: ‘You will get to know your body’. Because I didn’t know my body then.

“But now I’m starting to understand my strengths and weaknesses, how I can improve. So I feel like everything is getting easier.

“I know how to train the day before a match, two days before a match, what to do when I’m tired and so on. All the little details that in the end make a big difference.”

Kulusevski revelling in being the main protagonist

Kulusevski earned rave reviews for his display in the 3-0 thumping of Manchester United on September 29.

While deployed in his new playmaking role on the right side of a midfield three, Kulusevski scored and created nine chances (three of which were classified as ‘big chances’), according to FotMob.

“It [being a protagonist] came out in that match,” continued Kulusevski. “But I have worked incredibly hard to be able to play at that level. I’m not shocked. I’ve just been waiting for it. Every match has felt good, but that one was perhaps extra good.

“I want to try to maximise this career as much as possible and never be one of the crowd. It has been the whole season. I really feel that I am stronger mentally and physically this season.

“I have changed the ‘mindset’ a bit. I think that is to my advantage. I have grown off the pitch as well. The plan is to get better every day, and I feel that I am becoming that.”

Latest Tottenham transfer news

In other news, Tottenham now face stern competition from Man Utd for the signature of Crystal Palace talisman, Eberechi Eze.

According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, the Red Devils are keeping a close eye on the Spurs target.

Elsewhere, Spurs and bitter rivals Arsenal are both converging on Shakhtar Donetsk star, Georgiy Sudakov.

Finally, Tottenham are one of three heavyweight English sides taking a close look at Borussia Dortmund winger, Jamie Bynoe-Gittens. The others are Liverpool and Chelsea.

Kulusevski outgunning Phil Foden and Cole Palmer

Kulusevski has played in a more central role for Tottenham this season, making six Premier League appearances in midfield and one appearance as a striker.

He registered one goal and one assist in those seven appearances, averaging a direct goal contribution every 264 minutes.

While the Sweden international only has one assist to his name, he is currently creating 3.6 chances per 90 minutes and that is more than the likes of Cole Palmer and Phil Foden.

Filtering out any players that have played fewer than 180 minutes this season, Kulusevski is currently fourth in the Premier League in 2024/25 for chances created per 90 minutes.

His creativity levels have also increased from last season, when he predominantly played on the wing and averaged 2.1 key passes per 90 league minutes.

The 24-year-old is also averaging 1.2 successful dribbles per 90 minutes, 2.0 shots per 90 minutes and 30.3 passes per 90 minutes in 2024/25.

Another consequence of moving Kulusevski infield is allowing Brennan Johnson to start regularly on the right wing. Johnson has surpassed all expectations this term, scoring in each of his last six matches for Spurs.

Manchester United are interested in Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze but will face competition from Tottenham and other sides for his signature, per reports.

The 26-year-old had a fantastic 2023/24 campaign, which earned him a spot in England’s Euro 2024 squad, and several sides were linked with him over the summer, but ultimately he remained at Selhurst Park.

Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish said he was ‘astounded’ that no side triggered Eze’s release clause over the summer.

As confirmed by journalist Fabrizio Romano, Eze’s release clause of around £60m will re-activate in 2025 and Man Utd are in the mix to sign him.

Romano has revealed that Man Utd are ‘keeping a close eye’ on Eze ahead of the January transfer window, while he has ‘always been appreciated by Tottenham.’

He claims that Man Utd ‘want to invest on a new winger’ in 2025 and the Palace star is one of the players ‘they have been scouting,’ although he’s not the only player on their shortlist.

Romano also adds that the majority of Eze’s release clause must be paid up front if a club chooses to trigger it, which means Man Utd will have to spend a ‘big amount’ to sign him in January, or at the end of the season.

EXCLUSIVE: Ten Hag sack: Man Utd hopes of appointing Thomas Tuchel still very much alive despite England links

Man Utd, Tottenham interested in Eberechi Eze

Man Utd are keen to strengthen in several areas in 2025 and sources have confirmed to TEAMtalk that they will look to sign a new winger.

This is partly due to the fact that those behind the scenes at Old Trafford do not view Antony as good enough to feature regularly in the squad.

The Brazilian international was signed for a mammoth £86m (including add-ons) in the summer of 2022, and Erik ten Hag played a big role in bringing him to the Red Devils.

But Antony has failed to live up to his price tag and scored just one goal in the Premier League last season. Now, he finds himself behind Amad Diallo, Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho in the pecking order.

Eze is among Man Utd’s winger targets but as mentioned, Tottenham remain very keen on the Palace star and are seriously considering a move for him in 2025.

A lot would need to happen for Spurs to sign Eze in January, including player sales, but Ange Postecoglou’s side are ‘looking at possibilities of how to bring him to North London’, per TEAMtalk sources.

A move to Tottenham at the end of the season is the most likely outcome for Eze as things stand, but Man Utd could scupper their plans if they make a move.

Erik ten Hag is running out of time at Man Utd

While Man Utd are doing their due diligence on transfer targets, the board’s main focus currently is on their manager situation.

Ten Hag remains under serious pressure at Old Trafford and as previously reported, Sir Jim Ratcliffe is ready to sack the Dutch coach.

Ratcliffe isn’t in any rush to axe Ten Hag though and will wait until a suitable replacement is found, handing control of the situation over to Dan Ashworth, Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada.

Ten Hag has been informed that Man Utd’s next two games will be crucial in determining his immediate future. The Red Devils are set to play Brentford at Old Trafford on the 19th of October, before travelling to Turkey to face Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce on the 24th.

Thomas Tuchel remains top of Man Utd’s shortlist of manager targets, despite him being heavily linked with the England job.

We understand that Massimiliano Allegri, Graham Potter, Gareth Southgate and Eddie Howe have also been discussed by the Man Utd hierarchy.

North London rivals Tottenham and Arsenal are reportedly firmly in the race to sign highly-rated Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Georgiy Sudakov in 2025.

The Ukraine international is widely regarded as one of European football’s top young talents and is known to be a top transfer target for numerous clubs, including a plethora of Premier League sides.

And although Shakhtar are notoriously difficult to do business with, both Tottenham and Arsenal are “doing their due diligence” on Sudakov with a view to a future transfer.

Football Insider‘s Pete O’Rourke reports that the duo are keen on landing the 22-year-old, despite the fact that any potential transfer is expected to be a complex one to pull off.

FI also adds that a move for the playmaker is unlikely to happen in the January transfer window, with interested parties much more likely to get their man next summer instead.

Sudakov has drawn comparisons to his Ukraine teammate Mykhailo Mudryk, who also caught the attention of top European clubs after his performances for Shakhtar Donetsk.

While that is not exactly a glowing comparison, given Mudryk’s struggles since his move to Stamford Bridge, there have been questions raised over whether Sudakov has the physical capabilities to transfer his talents to England.

A big transfer fee will also be required to get a deal done for potential suitors, with the player still currently under contract until 2028. There is no mention in the report of how much that figure could be, although Sudakov has previously been valued at around the £60million (€71m/$78m) mark.

Where Sudakov fits in at Tottenham, Arsenal

Sudakov has made a sensational start to the new season, scoring seven goals and laying on two assists in 10 games in all competitions and has also been turning heads with his performances in the Champions League, where he has solid experience for a player still in his early 20s.

In terms of where he would fit in at both Tottenham and Arsenal, the Shakhtar star has played the majority of his games in the No.10 role but can also drop deeper into midfield.

For Spurs, he would be direct competition for James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski, given the Swede’s new role playing as a deeper-lying midfielder rather than a winger.

Sudakov arguably has more end product than both of those players, with 38 goal involvements in 80 league outings in his homeland, although the fact that the Ukrainian top flight is nowhere near as tough as the Premier League must be taken into account when considering those stats.

At Arsenal, Sudakov is considered a similar sort of talent to Gunners skipper Martin Odegaard, who has been sorely missed since being sidelined with an ankle ligament he suffered on international duty last month.

The Norway star is expected to be back in action next month but his absence has caused Mikel Arteta to be more pragmatic with his normal attacking approach, given how key Odegaard is in knitting midfield to attack at The Emirates.

To that end, adding another top playmaking talent to their squad certainly makes sense in the red half of north London to counter any such issues arising in the future.

Arsenal, Spurs also in Semenyo transfer battle

In other transfer news related to the north London duo, Arsenal are reportedly plotting a huge double swoop for Bournemouth pair Milos Kerkez and Antoine Semenyo, with the Gunners’ interest potentially affecting Liverpool, Tottenham and Newcastle United.

As per CaughtOffside, Arsenal rate Kerkez and Semenyo very highly and have set their sights on the duo as potential transfer targets for summer 2025. They want a new right winger who can provide cover and competition for Bukayo Saka, which is where Semenyo comes in, while Kerkez is viewed as a possible replacement for the likes of Kieran Tierney and Oleksandr Zinchenko at left-back.

Arsenal have been very impressed by Semenyo’s performances this season, as the 24-year-old has been one of Bournemouth’s best performers and has notched three goals and one assist in seven Premier League games.

However, Tottenham have also been linked with a move for the exciting attacker, although TEAMtalk understands that Newcastle are currently leading the race for Semenyo.

IN FOCUS – Sudakov ready to take the next step

Sudakov certainly has plenty of backers when it comes to his quality and what he could produce if he does take that next big step and move to either England or another of Europe’s top leagues.

Former Tottenham striker Sergei Rebrov is the current Ukraine and he certainly rates the player very highly, with his country currently producing some impressive young talent.

Speaking over the summer, Rebrov told ESPN: “These young players have a bright future, I think what Heorhiy [Georgiy] is doing is giving lots of energy on the pitch, he understands football very well, he has a spirit. He can play in several positions, which is very important.”

Meanwhile, Shakhtar’s head of development Oskar Ratulutra appears to be putting the hard sell on the player, adding: “He’s a clever guy and he’ll adapt to any environment, and to any style of football. He’s ready to make another step and to reach his dream.”

Strong comments on the midfield talent from Ratulutra in particular, and Sudakov will certainly be a player to keep a close watch on going forward.

Tottenham are reportedly eyeing up a move for highly-rated Viktoria Plzen midfielder Pavel Sulc in 2025 but will have to beat off a number of rivals to get the deal done.

Midfield was an area of the pitch with a high turnover of players over the summer in north London as Ange Postecoglou looked to offload a number of fringe men.

Tanguy Ndombele was released from his contract, while Oliver Skipp and Giovani Lo Celso were both sold and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg was loaned out to French side Marseille.

To fill out the numbers, Lucas Bergvall finally arrived from Sweden having spent the second half of last season back on loan in his homeland, while Archie Gray was signed in a £30m deal from Leeds United.

Tottenham boss Postecoglou has always been keen on bringing in one more in January though, having missed out on the likes of Aston Villa’s Jacob Ramsey and Atalanta star Ederson over the summer.

But now a report from TBRFootball claims that Tottenham are potentially looking to win the race for Czech Republic international Sulc.

The 23-year-old scored a remarkable 22 goals and added a further eight assists last season and has already notched six times and laid on another three this term.

That sort of form has seen Sulc emerge as one of the most sought-after attacking midfielders in Europe, and that sort of goalscoring threat from midfield would give Postecoglou something he does not currently have in his squad.

Spurs facing plethora of rivals for Sulc

Tottenham will have it all their own way in the chase for the Czech star though, will clubs across Europe all lining up to try and secure signature.

The report adds that both Manchester City and Aston Villa are showing interest from the Premier League, while Napoli, Atalanta, Marseille, Borussia Dortmund, and Bayer Leverkusen have all been sending scouts to watch the player.

Add in the fact that Plzen manager Miroslav Koubek has already admitted he will not stand in the player’s way if a suitable offer comes in, and there could be a bidding war brewing come the new year.

At this stage, it’s not reported how much Plzen are asking for the player, although it will certainly be a lot less than Crystal Palace are demanding for another Spurs attacking midfield target target in Eberechi Eze.

He is currently valued at €8million on Transfermarkt, but given his age, goalscoring capabilities and the sheer number of clubs chasing him that figure will surely increase quite dramatically.

Latest Tottenham transfer news

Fabrizio Romano has shared an important update on Tottenham defender Cristian Romero, who continues to be heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid since the summer transfer window shut.

There have been rumours regarding there being a release clause in the player’s contract which Real Madrid could look to activate, but Italian transfer expert Romano has now dismissed any such reports.

Meanwhile, Napoli boss Antonio Conte has been told he needs to prioritise experience by signing Real Madrid great Sergio Ramos rather than Tottenham Hotspur defender Radu Dragusin.

The centre-back only joined Tottenham in January, though the fact he is not a regular starter under Ange Postecoglou has supposedly given Napoli hope that they can capture him.

IN FOCUS – Who is Tottenham midfield target Pavel Sulc?

by Nathan Egerton

January 2019 – Sulc got his first taste of first-team football by joining second division side Vysocina Jihlava on a six-month loan deal.

July 2019 – After registering three goals and six assists in 16 appearances, he joined first division side SFC Opava on loan.

January 2020 – The attacking midfielder went out on loan again and joined Ceske Budejovice on a one-year deal.

January 2021 – Sulc made his senior debut for Viktoria Plzen, starting in a 0-0 draw with FK Pribram.

March 2021 – He represented the Czech Republic in the group stage at the 2021 UEFA European Under-21 Championship but they didn’t reach the knockout stages.

June 2022 – He joined FK Jablonec on a season-long loan deal and went on to register five goals and five assists in 34 appearances for the club.

August 2023 – Sulc remained at Viktoria Plzen for the 2023/24 season and scored his first career hat-trick in a 5-2 win over Ceske Budejovice.

March 2024 – He made his senior debut for the Czech Republic, starting in a 2-1 win over Norway.

May 2024 – He won the Viktoria Plzen Fans’ Player of the Year award in 2023/24 after registering 22 goals and eight assists in 49 appearances in all competitions.

June 2024 – Sulc made his first appearance at a major international tournament, starting in the 2-1 defeat to Portugal at Euro 2024.

September 2024 – The 23-year-old scored his first senior goals for the Czech Republic, netting twice in a 3-2 victory against Ukraine in the UEFA Nations League.

He also marked his Europa League group stage debut with a goal in a 3-3 draw against Eintracht Frankfurt

Fabrizio Romano has shared an important update on Tottenham defender Cristian Romero, who continues to be heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid since the summer transfer window shut.

The LaLiga side failed in their efforts to beat Manchester United to Leny Yoro over the summer as they looked at younger alternatives to the likes of veteran duo David Alaba and Antonio Rudiger.

That has left Carlo Ancelotti and the club’s transfer chiefs still looking at potential options for January or next summer, especially with the aforementioned duo both in their 30s.

Romero is one of the names who is being heavily linked with a switch to the Santiago Bernabeu along with Arsenal star William Saliba, who has formed a formidable partnership with Gabriel at the heart of the Gunners’ defence.

However, Daniel Levy was quick to slap a whopping £146million (€175m/$191m) price tag on the Tottenham man as soon as it became clear that Real had the Argentine World Cup winner on their shortlist of targets.

There have been rumours though regarding there being a release clause in the player’s contract which Real Madrid could look to activate, but Italian transfer expert Romano has now dismissed any such reports.

Sharing the update on X, Romano said: “There’s NO €65m release clause into Cuti Romero’s contract at Spurs despite reports from Argentina. Tottenham considered him untouchable last summer despite interest from top clubs.”

This clarification means that if Real Madrid are indeed serious about making a concrete move for Romero then they will have to make a huge offer for Tottenham to even consider letting the defender leave.

Romero the leader

Romero has emerged as a real leader in the Tottenham dressing room since Ange Postecoglou walked through the door and has cleaned up some of the disciplinary issues he had last season.

Tottenham paid £42.5m in the summer of 2021 to land the 26-year-old after an initial loan spell in north London and he was made one of Postecoglou’s vice-captains alongside James Maddison after Postecoglou was appointed.

The Australian was, however, forced to defend Romero after the north London derby loss to Arsenal after reports of the centre-back being tired after returning from international duty as he was blamed for Gabriel outmuscling him for the winning goal from a corner.

Speaking after the game, Postecoglou said: “It wasn’t mentioned to me before the game. I knew nothing about it. The players got back on Thursday and we had a Sunday game.

“No one reported anything other than the usual checks of people coming back from international duty so prior to the game – no one said anything.”

Romero is set to return to Tottenham action on October 19 when Spurs host West Ham in a big London derby lunchtime kick-off.

Latest Tottenham transfer news

Napoli boss Antonio Conte has been told he needs to prioritise experience by signing Real Madrid great Sergio Ramos rather than Tottenham defender Radu Dragusin.

Former Tottenham manager Conte has used his connections in England to help Napoli sign stars who are well known to fans of Premier League clubs, such as Scott McTominay, Romelu Lukaku and Billy Gilmour. The manager is hoping Napoli chiefs will add to his defensive options in the January transfer window and this has led to speculation about a surprise move for Dragusin.

The centre-back only joined Tottenham in January, though the fact he is not a regular starter under Ange Postecoglou has supposedly given Napoli hope that they can capture him.

Meanwhile, right-back Pedro Porro admitted he’s “proud” to be linked with Real Madrid amid speculation they could bid €65m, and developments on the Spaniard’s future will be of great interest over at Liverpool as they look to keep Trent Alexander-Arnold.

A recent report from Caught Offside claimed Real Madrid could bring Tottenham to the negotiating table with a €65m (£54.4m / $71.1m) bid for Porro.

But, responding to the links, the 25-year-old admitted he’s “proud” to be mentioned alongside a move to The Bernabeu, though stressed he’s “fully focussed” on Spurs for the time being.

IN FOCUS – Romero v Saliba as Real continue to circle

With both Romero and Saliba heavily linked with a move to Madrid, we thought it would be interesting to see how the pair shape up statistically so far this season.

As you can see, it is fairly even in terms of categories won although the really interesting one is ‘ball recoveries’, where Romero has more than three times as many as the Frenchman through just seven games.

That appears to point towards his more aggressive nature, which Spanish football is renowned for when it comes to defending. Although the fact that Tottenham have been playing more on the front foot than the Gunners this season certainly aids Romero’s figure.

Indeed, Spurs are second only to Manchester City in average possession so far this season at 62.3%. Arsenal, meanwhile, are averaging 48.9% in what is clearly a more pragmatic approach from Mikel Arteta compared to previous campaigns.

But in terms of value for money, 23-year-old Saliba wins hands down and it would not be a major surprise to see him end up swapping a famous red shirt for an even more famous white one in the not so distant future.

Napoli boss Antonio Conte has been told he needs to prioritise experience by signing Real Madrid great Sergio Ramos rather than Tottenham Hotspur defender Radu Dragusin.

Former Tottenham manager Conte has used his connections in England to help Napoli sign stars who are well known to fans of Premier League clubs, such as Scott McTominay, Romelu Lukaku and Billy Gilmour. The manager is hoping Napoli chiefs will add to his defensive options in the January transfer window and this has led to speculation about a surprise move for Dragusin.

The centre-back only joined Tottenham in January, though the fact he is not a regular starter under Ange Postecoglou has supposedly given Napoli hope that they can capture him.

But Italian journalist Enrico Fedele is not convinced by such a move. He has explained why Napoli should steer clear of Dragusin and instead complete a statement deal for former Real Madrid star Ramos, who is a free agent.

“Would I think about Radu Dragusin, who plays little at Tottenham? Too young, I would go for someone experienced,” Fedele said (via Sport Witness).

“Who? It’s a former Real Madrid [player]: Sergio Ramos. Hasn’t played for months? He would come to bring his character traits; he would do like [Tarcisio] Burgnich of the past. In Napoli I don’t see charismatic players, like [Pepe] Reina and [Raul] Albiol could have been in the past, for example.”

Dragusin must settle for Tottenham bench

Dragusin convinced Tottenham to spend €30million (£25.1m / $32.8m) to sign him earlier this year after shining for Genoa in Serie A.

The fact Dragusin performed so well for Genoa is likely the main reason why Napoli have been linked with his services.

But, as Fedele points out, Conte’s side may opt against moving for him due to the fact the 22-year-old is not playing regularly and is lacking experience at the top level.

Dragusin made nine appearances for Spurs in the second half of last season, while he has featured four times so far this campaign.

The Romania star is versatile, as he can also operate at right-back, but he will struggle to force his way into Spurs’ starting lineup in his favoured position of centre-half.

Postecoglou can already rely on Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero in central defence, and the duo have formed a strong partnership.

Dragusin is fairly quick, but Van De Ven is one of the fastest players around and often uses his incredible speed to catch up with forwards and stop goalscoring opportunities.

Dragusin is an aggressive defender who loves to battle with strikers, but Romero does this better, which explains why the former usually has to sit on the bench.

Given Dragusin’s age though, he has plenty of time to develop into an even better defender. Should he decide at some stage in the future that he wants to go back to Italy, then Napoli may enter talks for his signature.

DON’T MISS: Tottenham line up January transfer for LaLiga winger after successful scouting mission

Tottenham news: Real Madrid comments, brutal criticism

Meanwhile, Spurs right-back Pedro Porro has refused to rule out a future transfer to Madrid.

Los Blancos are reportedly keeping tabs on Porro as a potential successor to Dani Carvajal, should they be unable to sign Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold.

When asked about Madrid’s interest, the Spaniard replied: “Of course I’m proud with these links, it means I’m doing things well. If that happens one day, it happens. Now I’m fully focused on my club, Tottenham.”

Elsewhere, ESPN pundit Craig Burley has savaged Timo Werner as the Spurs forward continues to squander good chances.

“And again, I don’t want to sort of pick on him, but I am going to. I mean, Timo Werner. Timo Werner whatever he did in Germany, he has been unable to do in two spells in England,” Burley said.

“His end product was once again atrocious, and that adds to the pressure that goes on a team defensively when you are just not finishing teams off. It wasn’t just Timo Werner, but if he starts the next game after the international break, I will be very surprised.

“A young 17-year-old in [Mikey] Moore is probably going to come in his place. Brennan Johnson has come through a tough time when people were talking about his end product. He gets six goals in six.”

Tottenham right-back Pedro Porro admitted he’s “proud” to be linked with Real Madrid amid speculation they could bid €65m, and developments on the Spaniard’s future will be of great interest over at Liverpool.

A recent report from Caught Offside claimed Real Madrid could bring Tottenham to the negotiating table with a €65m (£54.4m / $71.1m) bid for Porro.

Responding to the links, the 25-year-old admitted he’s “proud” to be mentioned alongside a move to The Bernabeu, though stressed he’s “fully focussed” on Spurs for the time being.

“Of course I’m proud with these links, it means I’m doing things well,” said Porro. “If that happens one day, it happens. Now I’m fully focused on my club, Tottenham.”

Real Madrid’s desire to sign a new right-back is well documented. The fact Dani Carvajal recently suffered an ACL injury has only served to strengthen their ambitions in the market.

Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold is understood to be Real Madrid’s No 1 target in the position. Alexander-Arnold is in the final year of his contract at Anfield and could therefore be available as a free agent next summer.

Liverpool fully intend to tie their homegrown superstar down to a new and vastly improved contract. News of Real Madrid shifting their focus away from Alexander-Arnold and on to Porro would certainly be welcomed on Merseyside.

Conversely, news of Liverpool ironing out a new deal with Alexander-Arnold – and thus forcing Real Madrid to explore alternatives like Porro – would not go down well in north London.

Porro sale would sting Postecoglou

Porro cost Tottenham roughly €45m to sign from Sporting CP and after a slow start, has developed into one of the Premier League’s best right-backs.

The Spaniard is more known for the attacking side of his game and under Ange Postecoglou, is often tasked with drifting into dangerous areas infield.

Porro racked up 10 goal contributions (three goals, seven assists) in the Premier League last season. He opened his account from a goalscoring perspective on opening day this term when netting against Leicester City.

Losing Porro would likely force Tottenham into the market, especially after Emerson Royal was sold to AC Milan over the summer. Spurs’ other options in the position at present are Djed Spence and Archie Gray who is more of a midfielder anyway.

But if Caught Offside are correct, Spurs would at least be well compensated to the tune of roughly €65m if they do cash in on Porro.

Spurs star “atrocious” / Real Madrid choose between Saliba & Romero

In other news, pundit Craig Burley has labelled Timo Werner’s end product “atrocious.” Burley has also backed manager Ange Postecoglou to spring a surprise selection change for Tottenham’s next match against West Ham.

Elsewhere, Real Madrid have reportedly chosen between Arsenal’s William Saliba and Spurs centre-back Cristian Romero for a blockbuster signing at centre-back in 2025.

Le10Sport stated it’s Saliba who has emerged as Real Madrid’s ‘top priority’ and contact with the star’s camp has reportedly been made.

Finally, Tottenham have reportedly lined up a January move for Espanyol winger Javi Puado.

Real Madrid have prioritised signing Arsenal ace William Saliba ahead of Tottenham’s Cristian Romero, and a report claims the first steps towards a blockbuster transfer in 2025 have been taken.

After missing out on the signing of Leny Yoro to Manchester United, Real Madrid remain perilously light at centre-half. Carlo Ancelotti’s side waved goodbye to veteran Nacho Fernandez last summer and a major signing is on the agenda for the summer of 2025.

The Independent revealed in mid-September that Real Madrid had narrowed their centre-back shortlist down to two names – Saliba and Romero.

But according to a fresh update from Le10Sport, it’s the Arsenal man who has superseded Romero and is now firmly in Real Madrid’s sights.

The report stated Saliba, 23, is now Real Madrid’s ‘top priority’ for the next summer window. The LaLiga giant are ready to launch a ‘major operation’ as they lay the groundwork for a move and contact has already been made with Saliba’s camp.

As you might expect given Saliba has developed into one of world football’s finest centre-backs, Arsenal will reportedly do all they can to send Real Madrid packing.

It was acknowledged Saliba is a ‘pillar’ of Mikel Arteta’s team and it won’t be easy to bend Arsenal to Real Madrid’s will. Nonetheless, Real Madrid have now fixed their gaze on Saliba and Arsenal face a fight to retain their best defender.

Liverpool, Manchester City also in danger

Aside from a new centre-back, Real Madrid are also aiming to wrap up major signings in both full-back positions.

Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold and Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies are the two players in their crosshairs. Both stars are in the prime of their careers and also in the final year of their respective contracts. Real Madrid aim to sign both players on free transfers.

Another club Real Madrid hope to raid is Manchester City. Midfield lynchpin Rodri was widely reported to be in their sights, though the bulk of those reports came prior to Rodri suffering an ACL injury.

Man City are understood to be readying a gigantic new contract offer for Rodri in an attempt to shut down the Real Madrid links once and for all.

However, the outcome of the Premier League’s investigation into their financial dealings could play a huge part in determining the fate of their biggest stars.

Arsenal striker hunt latest / goalkeeper exclusive

In other news, TEAMtalk can confirm Arsenal are stepping up their interest in RB Leipzig striker, Benjamin Sesko.

Sesko is keen to ensure he plays regularly when the time comes to leave Leipzig and The Gunners have assured the striker he’ll be a frequent starter.

We understand Chelsea and Manchester United are providing competition and have also approached Sesko’s camp.

Elsewhere, a cheaper striker option is Lille hitman Jonathan David and transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has confirmed he’ll leave the French side as a free agent at season’s end.

Arsenal, Liverpool, Newcastle, Inter Milan and Barcelona have all been credited with interest in David.

Finally, TEAMtalk can exclusively reveal Arsenal are one of two high-powered clubs tracking impressive young Wigan Athletic goalkeeper, Sam Tickle. The other interested side is Man Utd.

Pundit Craig Burley has savaged Tottenham forward Timo Werner and backed Ange Postecoglou to spring a surprise selection change next time out against West Ham.

Eyebrows were raised when Tottenham re-signed Timo Werner to a second loan spell over the summer. The 28-year-old didn’t exactly set the world alight in his first loan spell, though Spurs saw fit to give the German a second chance. Tottenham’s new loan agreement also contains a modest £8.5m option to buy from parent club RB Leipzig.

Werner has started Tottenham’s last two Premier League matches on the left wing during Son Heung-min’s injury absence. The forward missed two one-v-one opportunities in the 3-0 victory over Manchester United and failed to make any meaningful type of impact in the 3-2 defeat to Brighton.

When speaking on ESPN FC, pundit Craig Burley labelled Werner’s end product “atrocious.” The former Chelsea and Celtic star also claimed Postecoglou will likely drop Werner next time out against West Ham and give 17-year-old wonderkid Mikey Moore a start on the left side.

Burley said: “And again, I don’t want to sort of pick on him, but I am going to. I mean, Timo Werner. Timo Werner whatever he did in Germany, he has been unable to do in two spells in England.

“His end product was once again atrocious, and that adds to the pressure that goes on a team defensively when you are just not finishing teams off. It wasn’t just Timo Werner, but if he starts the next game after the international break, I will be very surprised.

“A young 17-year-old in Moore is probably going to come in his place. Brennan Johnson has come through a tough time when people were talking about his end product. He gets six goals in six.”

Flaw in Burley’s plan

As previously mentioned, Werner’s chances in the starting eleven of late have come as a direct result of captain Son being sidelined with a hamstring injury.

However, Postecoglou stated the South Korean was “pushing hard” to feature against Brighton last weekend.

While Son obviously did not win his fitness battle, Postecoglou’s comments strongly suggest he’ll be available for selection once again after the two-week international break.

Son will more than likely return to the starting eleven in his favoured left wing role. Dominic Solanke will continue up front, with the red hot Brennan Johnson keeping his place on the right wing.

As such, Werner is expected to drop out of the eleven, though it won’t be Mikey Moore who takes his spot.

Latest Tottenham transfer news

In other news, Tottenham have reportedly been joined by Liverpool and Newcastle in sizing up moves for Bournemouth winger, Antoine Semenyo.

Prior reports have claimed Spurs are ready to splash out £33m to sign the forward. Their relations with Bournemouth – having presided over Solanke’s transfer last summer – could aid Tottenham’s cause.

Elsewhere, Spurs have been backed to make a concrete move for Crystal Palace talisman, Eberechi Eze, in 2025.

Finally, a bidding war between Spurs and bitter rivals Arsenal has been predicted. Aston Villa’s Jacob Ramsey – who Villa could reluctantly cash in on in 2025 – is the subject of both clubs’ admiration.

Tottenham are reportedly considering a move for Espanyol winger Javi Puado as Ange Postecoglou looks to strengthen his squad in the January transfer window.

Spurs have endured a somewhat disappointing start to the season and currently sit ninth in the table after winning three of their nine Premier League matches so far.

They threw away a 2-0 lead against Brighton last weekend and lost 3-2, and now reports suggest that they could make new attacking additions in January.

According to Football Transfers, Tottenham have identified Espanyol winger Puado as a target for the winter transfer window.

It’s claimed that the once-capped Spanish international caught the attention of Spurs scouts while watching loanee Alejo Veliz in action at the beginning of September against Real Vallecano.

Puado, who is out of contract at the end of the season, has scored three goals in eight LaLiga appearances so far this term.

If the 26-year-old doesn’t sign a new deal with Espanyol before January, Tottenham will be able to open pre-contract talks with him ahead of a potential free transfer next summer.

Alternatively, Spurs could capitalise on his contract situation by trying to snap him up for a cut-price fee in January, as suggested by the report.

Tottenham linked with LaLiga ace

Tottenham are in a good position when it comes to the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules (PSR) and are ready to back Postecoglou in the transfer market.

Spurs, however, are already strong in wide areas, which brings into question whether a winger like Puado will be a priority for them in January.

Brennan Johnson is in superb form and has scored in six consecutive matches, nailing down his spot in Tottenham’s starting XI.

Son Heung-min, on the other hand, remains one of the North London side’s most important players, while they have good back-up options in Dejan Kulusevski, Timo Werner and youngster Mikey Moore.

But the opportunity to snap up Puado for a cut-price fee, or even on a free transfer, may well tempt Tottenham so it will be interesting to see how this story develops in the coming months.

Spurs plot Eberechi Eze swoop

Meanwhile, Tottenham continue to be linked with talented Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze. Recent reports suggest that they are ‘fully expected’ to move for the England star in 2025.

Spurs are likely to face fierce competition for Eze’s signature, though. Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal are also thought to be admirers of his and will be in the mix to sign him.

Eze, 26, is under contract at Selhurst Park until 2027, but his deal includes a release clause of £68m which reportedly becomes active next summer.

It has been suggested that £60m could be enough to lure Eze away from Crystal Palace and it seems likely that one of his suitors will match that price tag.

Eze can play as an attacking midfielder or left-winger so could compete with the likes of James Maddison and Son at Tottenham.

Tottenham are also reportedly interested in signing Torino defensive midfielder Samuele Ricci, but will face competition from Man City.

The 23-year-old has been in fine form for Torino in recent months and has deservedly earned a regular spot in the Italian national team.

A price tag of around £18.4m has been mooted for Ricci and there is certainly no shortage of interest in him.