The Mirror

Tottenham on track to break their near decade-long transfer rule as £27m move emerges

Joao Palhinha arrived at Tottenham earlier this month on a season-long loan from Bayern Munich, with the Lilywhites having the option to make the move permanent next summer

Tottenham Hotspur will break a near decade-long transfer policy if they decide to make Joao Palhinha's move permanent next summer. The Portuguese star landed in north London earlier this month on loan from Bayern Munich.

It comes as Spurs aim to rebuild and bounce back from a disappointing Premier League campaign. The club ended up in a dismal 17th place last season under Ange Postecoglou, although he did end the club's trophy drought by clinching the Europa League title.

Following an impressive seven-year spell at Brentford, Thomas Frank made the switch to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this summer to take over from Postecoglou, and he has wasted no time in bolstering the squad he inherited.

In addition to securing permanent deals for Mohammed Kudus, Mathys Tel and Kevin Danso, Frank has been given a boost with the arrival of Palhinha on a season-long loan, with an option to buy for £27million next summer.

If Spurs choose to trigger the clause, it will mark the first time in nine years that they have forked out a transfer fee for an outfield player over the age of 30. By the time next season's summer window rolls around, he will be on the cusp of turning 31.

Fernando Llorente was the last over-30 outfield player that Spurs paid a transfer fee for, snapping up the striker from Swansea City for £12.1m in the summer of 2017 when he was 32. Regrettably, the move backfired spectacularly for Spurs, with Llorente only managing to net two goals in 36 Premier League appearances before being shipped off to Napoli on a free transfer in 2019.

However, Palhinha, primarily a defensive midfielder, won't be under the same pressure to score. Boasting an impressive CV that includes stints at Sporting CP, Fulham and Bayern, Palhinha arrives in north London with a wealth of accolades under his belt, including a Primeira Liga title, three Taca de Ligas and a Bundesliga crown.

He's also earned 34 caps for Portugal, winning the Nations League with them earlier this year. Palhinha made his official debut for Spurs during Saturday's Premier League opener against newly-promoted Burnley at home, coming on as an 80th-minute substitute for Lucas Bergvall to help secure a comfortable 3-0 victory.

Richarlison got the scoring underway for Spurs just 10 minutes into the match, volleying Kudus' cross from the right past Martin Dubravka. The Brazilian doubled his tally 15 minutes into the second half with a spectacular overhead kick, again connecting with a Kudus cross, before celebrating in style.

Brennan Johnson put the game beyond reach six minutes later, with Pape Matar Sarr providing the assist. Despite the buoyant mood in the Spurs camp, Frank is under no illusions about the challenge his team faces when they head to the Etihad Stadium next week to take on a revitalised Manchester City side.

Pep Guardiola's Cityzens climbed to the top of the Premier League after a resounding 4-0 thrashing of Wolves at Molineux on Saturday evening, with goals from new signings Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki, as well as a brace from Erling Haaland.

DONE DEAL: Brentford smash club record for £42m star

Brentford have announced the signing of Dango Ouattara from Bournemouth for a club-record £42.5million.

The 23-year-old winger has put pen to paper on a five-year contract which includes a club option of an additional year.

Brentford boss Keith Andrews said: "We're really happy to get Dango in. He's someone that we were aware and surprised could be available and, once we knew that signing him might be a possibility, we really focused on trying to get him in.

"We liked his Premier League experience, even at his young age, and he just hasn’t found the rhythm yet because of a lack of consistent game time. He also suits the way we want to play - he has something that we were lacking in the forward line, and he will complement what we already have in the building.

"The fans will love him; he's the type of player that they will get off their seat for."

DONE DEAL: Nottingham Forest announce Man City star McAtee

Manchester City midfielder James McAtee has joined Nottingham Forest in a deal worth £30million.

McAtee, 22, was the subject of interest from clubs across Europe but he's put pen to paper on a contract with Forest until 2030.

It ends his 11-year association with City.

Upon his arrival, McAtee said: "I feel ready for a new challenge and the Club had a great season last year so I want to help build on that and show what I can do.

"I'm so happy to be here and really looking forward to getting started with my new team-mates and I know the ambition of everyone associated with the club which is something I want to be a part of."

Hutchinson pens emotional statement

Omari Hutchinson has released an emotional statement to former side Ipswich after completing a move to Nottingham Forest.

Taking to Instagram, he wrote: "Dear Ipswich Town, It’s hard to put into words, but after 2 years of an unforgettable journey, it’s time for me to say goodbye to you guys.

"I just want to say thank you to everyone at the club for the memories we’ve created and to my teammates I shared a dressing room with. Most importantly to Kieran McKenna, I will always be grateful for what you done for me and helping me to become a better player and person.

"Town fans, I just want to say thank you for the endless love, thank you for believing in me and making this chapter so special. Ipswich will always have a place in my heart."

Silva hails Muniz

Fulham boss Marco Silva has been full of praise for forward Rodrigo Muniz for equaliser vs Brighton despite talk he could be on the way out of the club.

He said: “I think he deserves respect for that. Rodrigo is still young and the way you can grow in your career is until the end, in my opinion. The last two seasons he proved himself as a Premier League striker and I’m sure that this season he’s going to be even better.

"He showed everybody, for the noise around him, how he’s a professional football player and how he respects myself and the team-mates as well. Sometimes it’s not easy the rumours around themselves, the people around themselves, you are talking about their jobs as well. But I think he’s going to handle in the future even better these type of moments.

"Rodrigo created something with the Fulham fans that is not so easy to do. First of all they recognise his quality and secondly he is a player that always gives everything for the shirt. It’s nice to see that he scored and that connection is always there.”

Emery drops transfer clue

Aston Villa boss Unai Emery has suggested that his side are still active in the transfer market - but will only spend if their finances allow.

Speaking after Saturday's draw with Newcastle, he said: "We are keeping balance, and we are respecting the rules. We are being competitive in the transfer window. Since I arrived here, we have done fantastic windows, in January and the summer. We now have to be intelligent and as well so alert in everything. I think the most important is how we are building the team, trying to get as strong as possible with the players we have.

"The club is working fantastic, and we are ambitious. We are ambitious, respecting the rules too, trying to get the best players possible. We are trying to be a contender for Europe and compete like we did today. We are not going to rest in case we can be with an option in the transfer window."

DONE DEAL - Forest sign Hutchinson

Nottingham Forest have sealed a deal for Ipswich star Omari Hutchinson. The Midlands side have paid around £37m for the midfielder, who has signed a five-year deal with his new club.

“I’m really excited to be here and can’t wait to get started. I’ve played at the City Ground a few times and it’s always felt like a hostile atmosphere, so I’m looking forward to playing here with the fans behind us.

“I’m going to give it my all and I’m looking forward to the challenge as it’s a new chapter for me, but I feel ready.”

Sancho move stalling

Jadon Sancho's move from Manchester United to Italian side Roma is jeopardy due to his huge wages.

The Serie A side have approached the Red Devils regarding a deal for the winger. United reportedly preferred a permanent deal but Roma were seeking a loan deal.

The two clubs have now agreed a fee but Sancho's wages are holding up a deal, with the wideman unwilling to take a huge wage cut, as per reports in Italy.

Howe urges Isak resolution

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe claims he wants to see a resolution to the ongoing furore surrounding striker Alexander Isak.

Speaking in his press conference, he said: “I hope the Isak story it’s resolved quickly, because it’s news around us all the time.

"Players have managed to shut that out and perform. We have to continue to do that. We have to cope without the narrative against us."

Eze expresses Spurs wish

Eberechi Eze has reportedly informed Crystal Palace of his desire to move to Tottenham. The North London side have identified the England man as a potential addition following the injury sustained by James Maddison.

As per reports in Italy, Eze has told Palace he wants to explore a move having been impressed by the project on offer under Thomas Frank.

Spurs still need to agree a deal with Palace, who are looking at Leiceter's Bilal El Khannouss as a possible replacement.

Sesko agent reveals transfer sacrifice

Benjamin Sesko's agent Elvis Basanovic has revealed he was willing to give up his fee force a move through to Man United. "At one point the clubs (United and Leipzig) were far apart on the valuation," he said.

“United had reached the limit of their budget for the transfer. On the other side Leipzig had demands and expectations which were higher based on Benjamin's value. That created a gap that needed to be solved.

"At one point I decided to give up part of my own fee, to bridge the gap, because I felt it was the right thing to do. For me, a player's wishes and dreams should always come before the agent's interests."

Reynolds explains awkward Wrexham meeting

Wrexham co-owner Ryan Reynolds has revealed he had an awkward first meeting with the club's record signing Nathan Broadhead.

Speaking ahead of this weekend's clash vs West Brom, the Canadian said: "Obviously those things are in the works a little longer than the public view might have. I had an incredibly awkward moment with him in the dressing room because in person, he just looks so young and I’ve seen him play tons, I’ve watched him.

“I didn’t commit. I was like ‘hey, hi!’ I was like ‘that can’t be Nathan Broadhead. It can’t be, he’s too young’. But he’s 27 and he’s a machine.

“So I had that that but now it’s sunk in. I managed to get my entire leg in my mouth. Now it’s sunk in.”

Rudoni starts for Coventry

Jack Rudoni is playing for Coventry at Derby County right now.

The midfielder has been strongly linked with a transfer, with Southampton in talks over a potential £15million move, but he has not been left out today.

Coventry boss Frank Lampard is desperate to keep him and said in his pre-game press conference: “We want to do the best and my job is to try and push the best players, coach them well and if we can bring in better players, it helps us to move forwards. I think that’s clear.

“That’s not just me talking, that’s in general. But I don’t ask for those assurances because, at the end of the day, I understand how a club works and the position a club works under.”

Donnarumma to replace Ederson?

Gianluigi Donnarumma is set to leave Paris Saint-Germain and has reportedly already agreed terms with Manchester City.

But his move would surely depend on Ederson leaving first. The Brazilian has been linked with Galatasaray this summer, but Pep Guardiola has played down the possibility.

“Ederson didn’t come to me and said he wanted to leave or he has an offer," Guardiola said. "All the players here are our players and I want them. What’s going to happen in three weeks [before the window closes], nobody knows.”

Slot hints at Chiesa U-turn

Federico Chiesa may have earned himself a place in the Liverpool squad for this season after scoring last night.

Chiesa was set to leave this summer after struggling to make an impact in his debut campaign. But he came off the bench to score a vital goal in the 4-2 win over Bournemouth.

“As long as he is here it is definitely at Liverpool and I have no reason to believe it is going to change," Slot said.

“He had a hard time last season getting his fitness ready and unfortunately for him, he then missed the Asian tour."

Nuno concerned by lack of Forest deals

Nottingham Forest are close to signing Omari Hutchinson from Ipswich and James McAttee from Manchester City, but Nuno Espirito Santo isn't happy.

“I’m concerned,” he said. “We’re short on options, having solutions the game might need is a major concern. The problems will be ‘ifs’ during the game, problems that arise, we need options and solutions.

“Things are moving, potentially, medicals and then let’s see. We need players but for sure, they are not going to be available for Sunday. We are aware of the needs, the club knows.”

Emery on Martinez speculation

Unai Emery says there is a possibility Emi Martinez will leave Aston Villa before the transfer window closes, but insists he is happy at the club.

Martinez has been linked with Manchester United, among others, but is under contract until June 2029.

“I am so, so happy with him,” Emery said. “In the transfer window there is the possibility to leave but if he is staying here, like at the moment, I’m so, so happy with his commitment and professionalism.

"He’s a leader in the dressing room and he's very good for us. He’s happy here, he wants to fight for us.”

Eberechi Eze to Tottenham transfer accelerates as reason for Arsenal U-turn emerges

Arsenal registered their interest in Eberechi Eze earlier this summer but Tottenham are now the favourites to sign him from Crystal Palace before transfer deadline day

Tottenham are ramping up their pursuit of Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze, with Arsenal no longer in the race. Eze, 27, is Spurs' top target after fellow playmaker James Maddison suffered a knee injury in pre-season, ruling him out for the majority of the campaign.

The England international is set to miss Palace's opening game away to Chelsea on Sunday, with talks between the two clubs ongoing and expected to progress in the next 48 hours. Eze's £68million release clause expired on Friday and Tottenham are negotiating slightly below that figure.

Eze is keen to play Champions League football and the midfielder is open to a move across north London to either Spurs or Arsenal. But the latter have dropped their interest. After making contact earlier in the summer transfer window, Arsenal have now come to the conclusion that they're happy with their current attacking options. Ethan Nwaneri's decision sign a long-term contract is also part of their reasoning, as Mikel Arteta's side have high hopes for the 18-year-old. Another youngster, Max Dowman, is waiting in the wings, too. The academy graduate dazzled in pre-season and fans are excited to see him in action.

Arsenal's season begins on Sunday, as they travel to face Manchester United. Spurs got their campaign underway on Saturday, beating Burnley 3-0 on home soil to give new manager Thomas Frank the perfect start to life in north London.

All eyes will be on whether Eze is involved in Palace's curtain-raiser at Chelsea. During his Friday pre-match press conference, Eagles boss Oliver Glasner said that both Eze and Marc Guehi, who's a target for Liverpool, would start - although fresh reports suggest that the situation has changed.

"Marc has trained the entire week with us, every single training session, the same with Ebs," Glasner said of the pair. "They've prepared the best way for the Chelsea game on Sunday afternoon.

Have Arsenal made the right decision on Eberechi Eze? Let us know in the comments section.

"I've been in the football business for too long, so I know that at any time of any day, things can happen. If you ask me now, I expect both Marc and Ebs to start on Sunday."

Should Guehi and Eze be sold before transfer deadline day on Monday, September 1, Palace plan to reinvest. Leicester's Bilal El Khannouss is among the players who they're reportedly targeting to replace Eze.

History was made during Tottenham's clash with Burnley as goalkeeper Martin Dubravka became the first player in the Premier League to fall foul of a new rule change

Burnley goalkeeper Martin Dubravka has become the first player in Premier League history to be penalised over new rules aimed at reducing time-wasting. Dubravka conceded a corner after holding onto the ball for more than eight seconds in his side's clash with Tottenham.

The new rule is one of several tweaks that have been made this season, with referees instructed to give goalkeepers a countdown to stop holding the ball before awarding a corner if they fail to release it in time.

The incident occurred early on in the game, which Spurs comfortably won 3-0 thanks to a brace from Richarlison and a goal from Brennan Johnson. The rule change was approved by IFAB earlier this year and adopted at the Club World Cup.

Speaking after the tournament, FIFA's head of referees Pieluigi Collina said: "It was very successful; the tempo of the match was improved. We had no time lost by goalkeepers keeping the ball between their hands for a very long time — as happened quite often in matches before.

"The purpose was not to give corner kicks, but to prevent the eight seconds rule from being ignored. The purpose was 100% achieved."

And speaking ahead of the new Premier League season, PGMOL boss Howard Webb explained: "It's quite a radical change, really, but the basic idea is to get the ball back into play more quickly.

"It's meant to be preventative, not punitive. Like in other sports - if you play tennis at Wimbledon, you have to serve within a certain amount of seconds."

However, West Ham's vice-chairman Karren Brady is not a fan of the rule change, branding it "daft tinkering" in a column for the Sun. Brady wrote: "What was wrong with the old rule which gave keepers six seconds to release, with punishment in the form of an indirect free-kick?

"Beats me. It was hardly ever enforced anyway. The body which has come up with this latest daft tinkering, I meant well-researched brainstorm, the International Football Association Board, must have spent ages on it.

"Probably in a well-stocked five-star hotel somewhere near FIFA's Swiss Alps headquarters. The purpose of this newest change is to cut down on time-wasting but how can extending possession from six to eight seconds do that?

"And also the fact that the 'old' rule was almost never imposed surely means it was a good rule. A bit like competent refereeing, if you don’t know they are there, chances are the official is doing a decent job."

Thomas Frank gets his first taste of Premier League action with Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday afternoon, with newcomers Burnley ready to do battle in north London as the 2025/26 season gets underway

Scott Parker's Burnley are aiming for a positive start to life in the Premier League this weekend as they pay a visit to Tottenham Hotspur. With a newly-promoted side set to be his first domestic challenge in north London, Thomas Frank will hope Spurs can bounce straight back from their recent heartbreaking defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup shootout.

Spurs had looked set to claim another piece of silverware on Wednesday night, leading 2-0 in the 85th minute. But the Champions League winners came back to level the game in added time and won the trophy 4-3 on penalties.

Despite the loss, new boss Frank – who replaced Ange Postecoglou during the summer despite their Europa League triumph in May – was pleased with his side's performance. Speaking post-match, the 51-year-old said: "Very, very proud of the players, the team, the club, the fans.

"I think the players gave everything against one of the best teams in the world, maybe the best. I think for 75 to 80 minutes we were perfect, almost ­giving nothing away.

"It’s down to the smallest of margins, like the flip of a coin. I’d like to thank all the players who stepped up, were brave and took responsibility."

Meanwhile, Parker's Burnley have been busy preparing for life back in the Premier League, after being promoted from the Championship. Despite fighting Leeds United all the way – with both sides finishing on 100 points – Burnley had to settle for second place, and will be eager to get some points on the board before the season gets into full flow.

The Clarets have made 13 signings so far this summer, including former Manchester City captain Kyle Walker, and hope that their new additions will be the difference makers in keeping them in the top flight for more than one season.

With the Premier League openers all kicking off this weekend, many fans will want to know where they can catch the action. But unfortunately, Spurs vs Burnley won't be available to watch on live TV in the UK.

Why is Tottenham vs Burnley not on TV in the UK?

Unfortunately for both sets of fans, the game in north London will not be shown on TV due to the age-old 3pm blackout rule. The law dictates that any football fixture between 2:45pm and 5:15pm on a Saturday will be prevented from airing live on TV in the UK.

Introduced in the 1960s for broadcast, this rule was made to protect the attendances of football matches and ensure that fans leave their homes to watch the games instead of staying indoors.

Fans who are against the rule will have to endure it until at least the 2028/29 season, as per the new TV deals agreed by the Premier League and EFL.

The original rule dates back to the 18th century, and is found in the Factory Act 1850. This law restricted working hours on Saturdays for industrial workers, meaning that employers couldn't keep their staff on shift past 2pm.

This meant that workers needed to find something to fill their time on the weekend, which typically meant filling out the pubs or heading to a local match.

Many are in favour of scrapping the TV blackout these days, in order to allow fans to keep up to date with their clubs if they cannot attend the matches in person. However, others still believe it protects the lower leagues, as per the reason the broadcast arm of the law was created.

Why was the 3pm blackout rule lifted recently?

Those who think Blackpool vs Stevenage and Doncaster vs Exeter being on TV was just a weird mirage earlier this month, think again. The longstanding blackout rule was temporarily lifted for the beginning of the EFL season, due to the staggered start of the new campaign.

League One and League Two both kicked off at the beginning of August, with the Championship beginning a week later on August 7 – and the Premier League on August 15.

Under article 48 of UEFA's guidelines, the 3pm blackout ruling applies when 50 per cent of games in the top two divisions kick-off at 3pm on a Saturday.

Thanks to this clever loophole, Sky Sports were able to show all of the 3pm kick offs in the lower leagues, due to the two top leagues – the Premier League and Championship – not kicking off on the same day.

But this weekend, the blackout is back in full force, meaning that Spurs and Burnley fans will need to be at the game.

Which Premier League games are on TV?

Don't worry though; anybody who is just looking for their regular Premier League TV fix over the weekend will have plenty to choose from, thanks to Sky Sports new deal with the top flight.

A new four-year deal was agreed between the broadcaster and the league to show a record minimum of 215 Premier League matches from this campaign onwards – an increase from 128 on previous years.

As part of the new rights deal, Sky Sports will show more Premier League action than any other broadcaster with at least four matches per week.

Midweek matches as well as Friday and Monday night football will all be covered under this new agreement, giving fans the chance to tune into even more games than ever before.

Sky Group CEO Dana Strong shared her excitement at the news when it was announced, adding: "This is a fantastic result for Sky customers, who will see a significant increase in the number of matches from the most iconic league in the world. Sky is the undisputed home for sport fans in the UK."

So, these are the remaining games available to watch on TV in the UK over the opening weekend as the new Premier League season gets underway:

Aston Villa vs Newcastle - August 16, 12:30pm kick-off (TNT Sports)

Wolves vs Manchester City - August 16, 5:30pm kick-off

Chelsea vs Crystal Palace - August 17, 2pm kick-off

Nottingham Forest vs Brentford - August 17, 2pm kick-off

Manchester United vs Arsenal - August 17, 4:30pm kick-off

Leeds United vs Everton - August 18, 8pm kick-off

Aston Villa have received a punishment for the new Premier League season after breaching the division's rules in the clash against Tottenham Hotspur at Villa Park last term

Aston Villa have been fined £125,000 after breaching Premier League rules over the multiball system for the fifth time, with the club now banned from using it for the first three games of the new season.

In total Villa have been fined £330,000 since the beginning of the 2024/25 season for consistently misusing the system, which is designed to keep matches flowing as balls are quickly thrown onto the pitch following stoppages in play.

In the club's final home match of the season against Tottenham Hotspur, as they pushed for Champions League qualification for the second season in succession. Goals from Ezri Konsa and Boubacar Kamara earned victory over Spurs but the club have been judged to have used the multiball set-up incorrectly.

In addition to the fine, the Villans are now prohibited from operating the multiball system at its first three home matches of this season against Newcastle, Crystal Palace and Fulham. That follows the club being punished for indiscretions against Manchester United, Bournemouth, Crystal Palace and Brentford last season in addition to Spurs.

Against the Lilywhites, Villa went against guidance in a number of ways. Ball Assistants provided replacement balls from the cones directly to Villa's players for throw-ins and corners when not permitted to do so.

Additional ball assistants were positioned behind the goal that Aston Villa were attacking, and were in possession of additional balls to provide the Midlands side's players with ahead of corner kicks. In contrast, at the end the opposition were attacking, no additional assistants were in place and the correct number of balls were located in the area.

And on one occasion a ball assistant threw an additional ball onto the pitch at the same time as Tottenham's goalkeeper was collecting the match ball in order to restart the game via a goal kick. This happened despite the club twice seeing concerns over the multiball system raised around the game.

Ahead of the match, the match delegate and referee brought up the need to adhere to guidance and implement the correct application. Match officials then raised concerns over this to Villa's multiball supervisor at half-time.

The Premier League said in a statement: "The Premier League has entered into a sanction agreement with Aston Villa FC after the club accepted it had breached the Premier League ’s multiball rules. First introduced in the 2022/23 season, the multiball system is intended to maintain the flow of League matches, reduce delays and enhance the fan experience.

"Clubs are required to adopt a multiball system at every League match and adherence to the relevant rules and guidance is of vital importance to maintain consistency and, crucially, to ensure that home clubs do not gain a competitive advantage through their misuse of the system. "The accepted breach was the club’s fifth of the multiball rules during the 2024/25 season. The club will pay a £125,000 fine and will be prohibited from operating the multiball system in its first three home League matches of the 2025/26 season."

Tottenham have been busy this summer, but are expected to make a few more moves for some expensive transfer targets before the window shuts, having sustained some significant injury blows

Tottenham are looking to snap back from their UEFA Super Cup disappointment by strengthening their squad ahead of the new Premier League season. Spurs were left heartbroken on Wednesday after a penalty shootout defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, despite leading 2-0 with just minutes remaining.

The Champions League winners managed to claw back two late goals before triumphing in the shootout. With no time to dwell on the loss, the north London club are now focusing on their league opener at home to Burnley this Saturday, and manager Thomas Frank knows there's still work to be done to bolster his squad.

Despite welcoming seven new faces this summer, Mohammed Kudus is arguably the only one who is likely to be a nailed-on started week in and week out.

The club's pursuit of Eberechi Eze and Savinho has been well-documented as they aim to build on last season's Europa League success and instil a winning mentality at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Here, we take an in-depth look at potential transfers that could be finalised in the coming week...

Spurs splash out on Savinho

Spurs have been locked in talks with Manchester City over Brazilian starlet Savinho, who had an inconsistent debut season with the Citizens. Despite scoring just one league goal, he ended the season with 16 contributions in 48 games, including 13 assists, following the Club World Cup.

The exit of Son Heung-min and an injury to Dejan Kulusevski, which could sideline him for the rest of the year, has left Frank's team a bit thin on the wings, reports Football London, while James Maddison will need replacing as well following his ACL injury.

Talks of a £43m deal for the 21-year-old were reported, but according to recent claims, it could take a record-breaking fee for Spurs to lure the Brazilian away from Pep Guardiola's squad. Dominic Solanke is Spurs' current record signing, having joined for £65m last summer.

Savinho's agent is said to have indicated that it could take an offer of £67m to tempt City into selling. The players is understood to be open to the idea of joining Spurs and a bid is expected to be lodged in the coming days.

With Spurs fighting on four fronts this season, signing a winger with as much potential as Savinho could help them in their chase for further silverware and consistent participation in Europe. Given his age, and the fact Cristiano Ronaldo voted for him as his first choice to win the 2024 Kopa Award over Lamine Yamal, Savinho looks a wise investment for the future.

Break transfer record for Eze

There's a chance that Spurs could sign Savinho without breaking their transfer record, but they might have no choice with Eze. Spurs' interest in Eze this summer is well-known, and the latest update in the transfer saga suggests the club are preparing to make an official offer for the Crystal Palace star.

Fresh from winning the Community Shield following the Eagles' triumph over Liverpool on Sunday, the England midfielder could be on his way across London if a deal can be agreed between the two Premier League clubs.

While Eze has attracted interest from Arsenal, it appears that Spurs have taken the lead in the race for the 27-year-old's signature. If Spurs manage to secure the talented player, they will reportedly need to pay what would be a record-breaking £68m fee, which is said to be Eze's release clause. There are reports that claim that the clause expires before the start of the Premier League season.

The former QPR star is reportedly tempted by the chance to feature in the Champions League whilst staying in the capital, though reports indicate Tottenham value him at approximately £55m – matching what they splashed out to West Ham for Kudus. Adding a player of Eze's quality who can guarantee goals and assists in midfield and looks to be at the peak of his powers could prove to be a game-changing signing for Spurs.

Pocketing £20m for fringe player

Manor Solomon signed for Spurs in 2023, but the Israeli has featured in merely six matches for the club. A meniscus problem just three months after arriving in north London brought his 2023/24 season to a premature close. The subsequent campaign saw the winger loaned out to Leeds United as he revived his career by becoming instrumental in the Whites' ascent to the Premier League.

Whilst he netted 10 goals and contributed 12 assists for Daniel Farke's squad, his summer comeback to Spurs has proved less successful as he missed the club's Asian tour through injury.

With players like Kudus, Wilson Odobert, Richarlison, Mathys Tel and Brennan Johnson all positioned above Solomon in the pecking order, Frank might consider selling the 26-year-old. Spurs are reportedly seeking £15m to £20m for his signature, with a Leeds return being discussed, given Farke's frustration with his limited attacking choices.

The German was scathing about the club's stuttering efforts to strengthen their forward department as he recently declared: "In comparison to our Championship side, we have not improved in the offence. "We are not prepared yet for a long Premier League season.

"We are capable of playing at a good level but in order to be ready and to win games at this level... you need players who can score goals and give assists." Earning £20m on a player signed for free is certainly an opportunity many clubs won't turn their nose up at, and the extra funds could help facilitate the big-money moves for Eze and Savinho.

Tottenham suffered penalty heartbreak in the UEFA Super Cup final on Wednesday night in Udine following a late collapse against PSG in Thomas Frank's first competitive match in charge

Joao Palhinha insists Tottenham's courageous Super Cup display proves they can achieve "something special" under Thomas Frank. The Portuguese lynchpin, recently signed from Bayern Munich on an initial loan deal, has added new steel to Spurs' midfield - even if they did blow a late two-goal lead.

Palhinha remains optimistic about the challenge ahead, however, despite the agonising late collapse in Udine, stating: "We are really sad. Not just the players but all the staff and all the crowd that came to support us during the game.

"It will be tough for us all to digest that loss but I think we also need to feel proud for what we did until 80 minutes because we fought all game against the top team.

"I think we showed that we'll get there in the future, we have all the conditions to achieve this season and I think the future will bring us something special. We played a top game against a top opponent but in the Premier League every single game is tough and we cannot relax."

Tottenham kick off their Premier League campaign on Saturday against Burnley, who Spurs relegated in May 2024 following a 2-1 victory in N17. Fellow new boy Mohammed Kudus is already relishing the chance to put things right after penalty heartbreak.

The Ghanaian attacker said: "I'm very disappointed to lose the game but this is a big lesson that we must stay focused for the whole 90 minutes.

"I am really, really proud of the team for their work ethic and energy because we had them for most of the game, it was just the end part we need to fix. We have a game at the weekend so now the full focus is on that.

"That's the good thing about football, there is always an opportunity every week to show a different character and prove what you have got. I would have loved for us to win a trophy but it hasn't happened, so full focus on Saturday."

Kudus - a £55million summer acquisition from West Ham - starred on his first official outing for Spurs, troubling PSG left-back Nuno Mendes The 25-year-old is determined to hit the ground running in north London despite the unfortunate midweek blip.

He continued: “I am very excited to have joined this beautiful club. I am still settling in, trying to adapt and get used to my new coaches but with the help of the club, so far it has been going so smoothly. I still have a lot more to show and there are a lot more games to play this season."

Kudus featured as a shadow striker behind Richarlison in Italy but naturally, he tended to drift across to the right flank. Interestingly, there were no minutes for Europa League final hero Brennan Johnson amid increased competition for places.

Spurs are looking to add even more firepower to their armoury in the market and discussions for Manchester City's Savinho and Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze are continuing.

Tottenham have come out and said they are "disgusted" after Mathys Tel was subjected to racist abuse on social media following Wednesday night's Super Cup loss to PSG.

The Frenchman stepped up in the penalty shootout but missed the target before facing abuse online. Thomas Frank's side had led 2-0 against the Champions League winners before two late goals saw the French outfit level the contest.

Tottenham then came out second best in a penalty shootout with Tel among the two players to miss. The forward has just made his move to north London permanent and came off the bench in Frank's first competitive game in charge.

The ex-Bayern Munich man failed to hit the target with his effort from 12 yards as the Parisians edged the match to claim the trophy, but Tottenham have been angered by the level of abuse Tel has faced subsequently.

A club statement read: "We are disgusted at the racial abuse that Mathys Tel has received on social media following last night’s UEFA Super Cup defeat. Mathys showed bravery and courage to step forward and take a penalty, yet those who abuse him are nothing but cowards - hiding behind anonymous usernames and profiles to spout their abhorrent views.

"We will work with the authorities and social media platforms to take the strongest possible action against any individual we are able to identify. We stand with you, Mathys."

Tel made a loan move to Tottenham back in February and the club have now made his move permanent. Frank hailed all of those who stepped up in the penalty shootout despite Tottenham being left on the wrong side of the result.

He said: "I agree, it’s down to the smallest of margins in the penalty shootout. It’s like the flip of a coin. First I’d like to thank all the players that stood up and were brave and took responsibility to take a penalty."

Tottenham will begin their campaign on Saturday when they welcome Burnley to north London. Frank is bidding to oversee marked improvements on last season, when the team finished in a lowly 17th despite their Europa League success.

Thomas Frank makes feelings clear after Tottenham throw away two-goal lead to lose to PSG

Spurs failed to fight off a late PSG fight back in Italy on Wednesday evening in the UEFA Super Cup with Thomas Frank slipping to defeat in his first competitive game as Tottenham boss

Thomas Frank claimed he was "happy" with his Tottenham stars - despite Super Cup agony against PSG. The Dane insists the performance should now provide belief Spurs can match any side.

He said after his team lost on penalties in the sweltering Italian heat: "We played a very good game against one of the best teams in the world, maybe the best at this moment in time.

"The goal on 85 minutes shifted momentum but there's so much to be positive about, so I'm happy with the team. There's a lot to be happy with, it's a flip of a coin when you go into a penalty shootout."

Frank claims his stars "gave everything" and added his side were "perfect" for 80 minutes. Goncalo Ramos struck the equaliser after Lee Kang-in pulled one back for PSG.

Frank feels Spurs' display can now be a blueprint moving forward to make them extra competitive. He continued: "We showed we can be tactical and pragmatic because we needed to be against a team like PSG.

"In one game we showed we can play against almost any team. I'm not in doubt we can do that. That's a positive we can take away."

When quizzed on transfers, Frank admitted he'd like to add some more quality. He said: "I'd like to strengthen the squad, no doubt about that. We will work very hard to do that. In general I'm happy with the squad but we'd like to strengthen before the window closes."

How will Spurs do this season? Share your predictions in the comments below

The North London side have so far added six new faces to Frank's squad ahead of the new season - Mohammed Kudus' switch from West Ham the headline arrival. Mathys Tel and Kevin Danso have had their loans turned permanent, while Joao Palhinha has penned his own temporary deal from Bayern Munich.

Elsewhere, young defenders Luka Vuskovic and Kota Takai have both been signed. Manchester City star Savinho has been identified as a further recruit, with reports suggesting that Spurs have already held talks with their Premier League rivals.

Following their Super Cup defeat, Frank's side now have just a couple of days remaining until their Premier League opener. They take on newly-promoted Burnley in North London on Saturday ahead of a blockbuster meeting with Man City next weekend.