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Speaking to Standard Sport, Anderton admitted that finding a like-for-like replacement for Kane is nearly impossible but suggested Brentford’s Igor Thiago is the right profile. "I don't think anyone can [replace Kane] as such," Anderton said.

"Are we going to go out and buy the best striker in the world that's available and pay him crazy, whoever that guy is, crazy money? I don't think we are. It's going to be that one where we probably take a gamble on someone and try and do it that way. I mean, I love the boy at Brentford, Igor Thiago. I think he's done great."

Thiago enjoyed a sensational campaign last season, netting 22 goals for the Bees to finish just behind Erling Haaland in the race for the Premier League Golden Boot. His rise has been meteoric since moving to London from Club Brugge in 2024, despite early injury setbacks. Anderton is convinced that Thiago offers a clinical edge that current options like Richarlison and Dominic Solanke have yet to consistently provide in a Spurs shirt.

Discussing the current crop of forwards, Anderton offered a blunt assessment of Richarlison's role in the squad. "Richarlison, is not going to be a goalscorer," he explained. "He's going to run around and upset defenders and be a pain in the arse to play against. Is he going to be involved in a team that gets into that top four or five?"

While Anderton expressed hope for Solanke, he remained sceptical about his ability to fill Kane's shoes: "I don't think he can replace Harry... we desperately need a goalscorer. I hope that Solanke can come and be that."

The endorsement of Thiago comes at a time of significant change at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. After a difficult period that saw the club flirt with relegation, Italian tactician De Zerbi has been tasked with rebuilding the side. With defensive reinforcements like Jan Paul van Hecke and Andy Robertson already through the door, the focus has shifted to an aggressive recruitment drive in midfield and attack.

Anderton believes that Thiago’s technical ability and physical presence make him a natural fit for the style of football De Zerbi is implementing. "Honestly, as bad as it was, I think that De Zerbi can get us back into the Champions League. I really do. I think he's that good," Anderton stated. Focusing on the tactical synergy, he added: "If he gets the right players in, which obviously Senesi is, he wants us to play a certain way of passing the ball correctly. I don't see why Igor Thiago wouldn't fit the system."

Tottenham are currently navigating a busy transfer window with several high-profile targets on their radar, including Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali and Manchester City’s Savinho. However, the requirement for a specialist number nine remains the priority if they are to climb back into the Champions League places. Thiago, currently on international duty with Brazil at the World Cup, represents a proven Premier League commodity who could thrive in a more dominant side.

De Zerbi has already begun his tenure by steering the club away from a disastrous situation following the short-lived reign of Igor Tudor. Having secured Premier League safety on the final day of last season, the manager is now being backed with significant resources.

Speaking to Standard Sport, Anderton admitted that finding a like-for-like replacement for Kane is nearly impossible but suggested Brentford’s Igor Thiago is the right profile. "I don't think anyone can [replace Kane] as such," Anderton said.

"Are we going to go out and buy the best striker in the world that's available and pay him crazy, whoever that guy is, crazy money? I don't think we are. It's going to be that one where we probably take a gamble on someone and try and do it that way. I mean, I love the boy at Brentford, Igor Thiago. I think he's done great."

Thiago enjoyed a sensational campaign last season, netting 22 goals for the Bees to finish just behind Erling Haaland in the race for the Premier League Golden Boot. His rise has been meteoric since moving to London from Club Brugge in 2024, despite early injury setbacks. Anderton is convinced that Thiago offers a clinical edge that current options like Richarlison and Dominic Solanke have yet to consistently provide in a Spurs shirt.

Discussing the current crop of forwards, Anderton offered a blunt assessment of Richarlison's role in the squad. "Richarlison, is not going to be a goalscorer," he explained. "He's going to run around and upset defenders and be a pain in the arse to play against. Is he going to be involved in a team that gets into that top four or five?"

While Anderton expressed hope for Solanke, he remained sceptical about his ability to fill Kane's shoes: "I don't think he can replace Harry... we desperately need a goalscorer. I hope that Solanke can come and be that."

The endorsement of Thiago comes at a time of significant change at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. After a difficult period that saw the club flirt with relegation, Italian tactician De Zerbi has been tasked with rebuilding the side. With defensive reinforcements like Jan Paul van Hecke and Andy Robertson already through the door, the focus has shifted to an aggressive recruitment drive in midfield and attack.

Anderton believes that Thiago’s technical ability and physical presence make him a natural fit for the style of football De Zerbi is implementing. "Honestly, as bad as it was, I think that De Zerbi can get us back into the Champions League. I really do. I think he's that good," Anderton stated. Focusing on the tactical synergy, he added: "If he gets the right players in, which obviously Senesi is, he wants us to play a certain way of passing the ball correctly. I don't see why Igor Thiago wouldn't fit the system."

Tottenham are currently navigating a busy transfer window with several high-profile targets on their radar, including Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali and Manchester City’s Savinho. However, the requirement for a specialist number nine remains the priority if they are to climb back into the Champions League places. Thiago, currently on international duty with Brazil at the World Cup, represents a proven Premier League commodity who could thrive in a more dominant side.

De Zerbi has already begun his tenure by steering the club away from a disastrous situation following the short-lived reign of Igor Tudor. Having secured Premier League safety on the final day of last season, the manager is now being backed with significant resources.

According to The i Paper, internal discussions are now focused on a formal proposal for Rashford, who is currently starring for England at the World Cup, with Spurs prioritising established top-flight experience over unproven talents from overseas. The club have already secured Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton for £52m, alongside free transfer deals for Andrew Robertson and Marcos Senesi, and are testing the waters elsewhere with a massive £80m bid for Newcastle's Sandro Tonali.

While United and Rashford have agreed on a £40m release clause this summer, Tottenham are reportedly unwilling to meet that specific figure. Instead, the Spurs hierarchy is exploring a lower opening offer to see if the Red Devils are willing to negotiate.

The report adds that Rashford’s preference would be to move abroad again or return to United and reintegrate into the senior squad. Moving to another Premier League club is currently not on his radar, which presents a significant hurdle for Spurs to overcome.

However, the forward may be forced to rethink his stance. The iPaper adds that United are keen to move the England international on to alleviate the pressure of his astronomical wages on their books. While Rashford enjoyed a revival during a loan spell at Camp Nou, United sources are adamant the club will not engage with Barcelona over another loan deal. This decision comes after the Catalan giants elected not to activate the £26m option to make his stay in Spain permanent.

Spurs boss Roberto De Zerbi is understood to be a huge fan of Rashford. The Italian tactician is expected to push the Tottenham hierarchy to find a solution that brings the forward to the club. Rashford is said to be aware that a move will require a financial sacrifice, and he is more than willing to take a substantial pay cut at this crucial juncture in his career.

For Spurs, the challenge lies in balancing a competitive transfer fee with a sustainable wage structure, but there is a growing belief that Rashford could represent excellent value for money if a compromise is reached.

United are planning to strengthen their squad and could use the potential Rashford windfall to fund new arrivals. The club is already making moves in the engine room, where a deal for Atalanta’s Ederson is considered to be agreed. Negotiations are also reportedly ongoing with West Ham for Mateus Fernandes, though their current asking price has stalled progress. Additionally, United are monitoring Crysencio Summerville, who has been in sparkling form for the Netherlands.

Former Brighton boss De Zerbi steered Spurs to top-flight safety on the back of answering an SOS call in late March. He picked up a coaching baton that had slipped through the fingers of Thomas Frank and Igor Tudor.

The enigmatic Italian quickly set about restoring a sense of pride in his squad, with 100 per cent effort considered to be the minimum requirement. Nerves were left jangling until the final day of the campaign, but collective heads were kept above water.

Plans for the summer transfer window are now being drawn up, with Spurs discovering that they will make the short trip to Brentford on the opening weekend of 2026-27 action. A serious refresh could have taken place by that point.

Comings and goings aplenty are expected, with any funds raised from sales being reinvested in additions that will help to improve standards and deliver on expectations. Too many big-money deals have failed to deliver a return across recent years - leading to successive 17th-place finishes being endured.

Asked if more cash needs to be splashed over the coming weeks, former Tottenham boss Redknapp - speaking in association with BuzzBallz - told GOAL: “They need a big change. They need to change that squad.

“The manager, I don't know him but I like what I see of him. I think he'll come in and he won't stand for what they've done the last two years. He won't have that and he'll push them and change them. If they're not good enough, they'll be gone. He'll bring players in for sure but he's relying on recruitment. Whoever was doing the recruitment the last couple years has not been very good at doing it.”

Pressed further on whether too many players became “comfortable” at Spurs after securing their own high-profile moves, and what De Zerbi can do to alter that trend, Redknapp added: “They have bought players in and I don't even know who half of them are, to be honest - 60 million here, 50 million there, 70 million there. Average players who haven't performed.

“Two years finishing 17th in the Premier League. They were so lucky not to go down this year. They got the biggest break of all when they went to Villa and Villa put a very average team out, mostly reserves, and probably the worst performance I've seen from a Premier League team that day was Aston Villa against Tottenham. So they caught Villa on the right day, just before they were due to play Forest in the semi final of the European competition, and that win really kept them up.

“But overall this year, they've been shocking Tottenham, absolutely shocking and they got away with it. But I do think this fella will push them on and I think next year they'll finish in the top six.”

Spurs supporters have not had too much to shout about of late, but are hoping to have the likes of Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison fit and firing next season - while currently watching star turns such as Djed Spence and Pedro Porro on World Cup duty with England and Spain respectively.

BuzzBallz is on a mission to bring some fun back to football fandom this summer - encouraging fans to get involved and embrace the lighter side of the game. To mark the 21,866 days since England last won a major international trophy, cult-favourite ready-to-drink brand BuzzBallz is giving away 21,866 products to fans who share creative, funny and unexpected photos or videos via social media showing where their BuzzBallz have turned up during the tournament.

Despite being under contract until June 2031, the 20-year-old has made it clear to the Spurs hierarchy that he believes his future lies away from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as several Premier League sides and clubs across Europe monitor the situation - per The Athletic.

The Sweden international was previously the subject of intense speculation during the winter window. Tottenham could face a battle to keep hold of him after rebuffing various enquiries, including from Chelsea and Aston Villa.

Bergvall’s trajectory at Spurs has been a rollercoaster since his arrival from Djurgarden in 2024. He initially flourished under Ange Postecoglou, playing a pivotal role in the club's 2025 Europa League triumph - their first piece of silverware in 17 years.

His performances during that campaign were so impressive that he was officially named the club's Player of the Year, seemingly cementing his status as a cornerstone of the team's future.

However, the managerial merry-go-round has stunted his progress. Thomas Frank, who replaced Postecoglou, often deployed the Swede in wide areas rather than his preferred central midfield role. This trend continued under Igor Tudor and has worsened since Roberto De Zerbi took charge in March.

The Italian tactician’s 4-2-3-1 system appears ill-suited to Bergvall’s attributes, with the midfielder barely featuring in the final weeks of the 2025-26 Premier League season.

The uncertainty surrounding Bergvall’s future has not gone unnoticed by Tottenham’s domestic rivals. Both Aston Villa and Chelsea have previously established contact with the club to explore the possibility of a transfer.

While Spurs originally maintained that the player was not for sale, his formal request to move on could force a change in stance if a substantial offer is presented this summer. De Zerbi’s vision for the squad also suggests a transition away from the Swedish youngster.

The Athletic adds that Tottenham are pursuing high-profile targets such as Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, indicating a desire for more established Premier League experience in the engine room. With no European football on the calendar for the upcoming season, minute distribution will be tighter than ever, leaving Bergvall in a precarious position regarding his development.

While his club career has hit a stumbling block, Bergvall continues to make waves on the international stage. He recently made history by becoming Sweden’s youngest-ever player to appear at a World Cup when he came off the bench during the 5-1 victory over Tunisia. During that match, he provided an assist for Graham Potter’s side, reminding onlookers of the technical quality that made him such a coveted prospect two years ago.

Despite his individual milestones, Sweden’s tournament remains in the balance following a heavy defeat to the Netherlands on matchday two.

Despite being under contract until June 2031, the 20-year-old has made it clear to the Spurs hierarchy that he believes his future lies away from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium as several Premier League sides and clubs across Europe monitor the situation - per The Athletic.

The Sweden international was previously the subject of intense speculation during the winter window. Tottenham could face a battle to keep hold of him after rebuffing various enquiries, including from Chelsea and Aston Villa.

Bergvall’s trajectory at Spurs has been a rollercoaster since his arrival from Djurgarden in 2024. He initially flourished under Ange Postecoglou, playing a pivotal role in the club's 2025 Europa League triumph - their first piece of silverware in 17 years.

His performances during that campaign were so impressive that he was officially named the club's Player of the Year, seemingly cementing his status as a cornerstone of the team's future.

However, the managerial merry-go-round has stunted his progress. Thomas Frank, who replaced Postecoglou, often deployed the Swede in wide areas rather than his preferred central midfield role. This trend continued under Igor Tudor and has worsened since Roberto De Zerbi took charge in March.

The Italian tactician’s 4-2-3-1 system appears ill-suited to Bergvall’s attributes, with the midfielder barely featuring in the final weeks of the 2025-26 Premier League season.

The uncertainty surrounding Bergvall’s future has not gone unnoticed by Tottenham’s domestic rivals. Both Aston Villa and Chelsea have previously established contact with the club to explore the possibility of a transfer.

While Spurs originally maintained that the player was not for sale, his formal request to move on could force a change in stance if a substantial offer is presented this summer. De Zerbi’s vision for the squad also suggests a transition away from the Swedish youngster.

The Athletic adds that Tottenham are pursuing high-profile targets such as Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, indicating a desire for more established Premier League experience in the engine room. With no European football on the calendar for the upcoming season, minute distribution will be tighter than ever, leaving Bergvall in a precarious position regarding his development.

While his club career has hit a stumbling block, Bergvall continues to make waves on the international stage. He recently made history by becoming Sweden’s youngest-ever player to appear at a World Cup when he came off the bench during the 5-1 victory over Tunisia. During that match, he provided an assist for Graham Potter’s side, reminding onlookers of the technical quality that made him such a coveted prospect two years ago.

Despite his individual milestones, Sweden’s tournament remains in the balance following a heavy defeat to the Netherlands on matchday two.

Tottenham have submitted a formal bid of around £75-80 million to Newcastle for Tonali as they look to steal a march on their Premier League rivals, Sky Sport in Italy reports. Spurs stepped up their efforts to sign Tonali earlier this week, sparking a fierce transfer battle with Arsenal, Manchester United, and Manchester City all hot on the heels of the Italy international.

While an approach to Tonali’s representatives had been made by Spurs to discuss a possible move to De Zerbi’s side this summer, Newcastle had not been previously approached.

Newcastle refuse to let their midfield lynchpin leave on the cheap, despite the substantial package offered by Spurs. The Athletic has stated that the club are demanding £100m for him.

The Tyneside outfit hold a commanding position at the negotiating table due to the player's long-term contractual status. Newcastle secured Tonali from AC Milan three years ago and subsequently handed him a contract extension during his 10-month gambling ban, keeping him tied to St James’ Park until 2029. Consequently, Newcastle have firmly informed Tonali’s camp that they will not sanction a sale for the 26-year-old unless their valuation is met in full.

The Italian manager's tactical blueprint for his revamped Tottenham squad is the primary driving force behind this pursuit. De Zerbi, who has closely tracked Tonali since the midfielder's early breakthrough at Brescia, views his compatriot as a foundational pillar for his new project in North London.

The Italian coach previously admitted his desire to work with Tonali during his stint on the South Coast. ‘I wanted to bring Tonali to Sassuolo, if I’d stayed, after his first year at AC Milan,’ De Zerbi said during his time at Brighton. ‘I said, ‘maybe they’ll fall for it and I’ll bring him here’. I saw him at Brescia and thought he was the player he proved to be.’

Tottenham’s sudden manoeuvre has put other Premier League heavyweights on high alert as they closely monitor developments at St James' Park. Earlier this week, suspicions arose within Newcastle that Spurs’ interest was intentionally made public to provoke a counter-offer from Arsenal, who had previously attempted to secure the Italy international during the final days of the January window.

Sky Sports reports that Manchester City remain interested in Tonali.

Tottenham have submitted a formal bid of around £75-80 million to Newcastle for Tonali as they look to steal a march on their Premier League rivals, Sky Sport in Italy reports. Spurs stepped up their efforts to sign Tonali earlier this week, sparking a fierce transfer battle with Arsenal, Manchester United, and Manchester City all hot on the heels of the Italy international.

While an approach to Tonali’s representatives had been made by Spurs to discuss a possible move to De Zerbi’s side this summer, Newcastle had not been previously approached.

Newcastle refuse to let their midfield lynchpin leave on the cheap, despite the substantial package offered by Spurs. The Athletic has stated that the club are demanding £100m for him.

The Tyneside outfit hold a commanding position at the negotiating table due to the player's long-term contractual status. Newcastle secured Tonali from AC Milan three years ago and subsequently handed him a contract extension during his 10-month gambling ban, keeping him tied to St James’ Park until 2029. Consequently, Newcastle have firmly informed Tonali’s camp that they will not sanction a sale for the 26-year-old unless their valuation is met in full.

The Italian manager's tactical blueprint for his revamped Tottenham squad is the primary driving force behind this pursuit. De Zerbi, who has closely tracked Tonali since the midfielder's early breakthrough at Brescia, views his compatriot as a foundational pillar for his new project in North London.

The Italian coach previously admitted his desire to work with Tonali during his stint on the South Coast. ‘I wanted to bring Tonali to Sassuolo, if I’d stayed, after his first year at AC Milan,’ De Zerbi said during his time at Brighton. ‘I said, ‘maybe they’ll fall for it and I’ll bring him here’. I saw him at Brescia and thought he was the player he proved to be.’

Tottenham’s sudden manoeuvre has put other Premier League heavyweights on high alert as they closely monitor developments at St James' Park. Earlier this week, suspicions arose within Newcastle that Spurs’ interest was intentionally made public to provoke a counter-offer from Arsenal, who had previously attempted to secure the Italy international during the final days of the January window.

Sky Sports reports that Manchester City remain interested in Tonali.

Spurs are making significant strides in the transfer market under Roberto De Zerbi, aiming to overhaul their squad after a challenging campaign. According to transfer expert Matteo Moretto, the club is now "very close" to agreeing personal terms with the 21-year-old midfielder, who is widely considered one of the brightest young talents in the Premier League despite West Ham's recent struggles.

While Manchester United have long identified Fernandes as a priority target, Tottenham have moved aggressively to steal a march on their rivals. The player is reportedly open to a move to north London as he looks to remain in the top flight and avoid a season in the Championship. However, formal club-to-club contact between Spurs and West Ham is yet to take place as negotiations continue on the player's side.

The pursuit of Fernandes is part of a broader strategy to transform the midfield at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The club has already been active elsewhere, with reports suggesting they are also pushing for Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali. Securing both players would represent a massive statement of intent, especially given the competition from other top-six sides for Tonali's signature.

The London outfit have already been busy in the window, securing the services of Andy Robertson, Jan Paul van Hecke and Marcos Senesi. With Fernandes and Tonali in their sights, De Zerbi is clearly looking to add both technical quality and defensive energy to his engine room. Fernandes is coming off a productive campaign with West Ham, having made 39 appearances across all competitions last season, scoring five goals and providing five assists.

Despite Tottenham’s progress, United remain a serious threat in the race for Fernandes. The Old Trafford hierarchy turned their focus toward the Portuguese youngster after finding deals for Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson and Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni too difficult to conclude. It has been widely suggested that Fernandes admires United and would be keen on the prospect of playing alongside his international teammate, Bruno Fernandes.

The Red Devils' interest makes the recent breakthrough for Spurs even more critical. If Tottenham can finalise an agreement on personal terms with the "superstar" midfielder - who only joined West Ham in the summer of 2025 from Southampton in a deal worth over £40m, signing a contract until 2030 - it puts the ball firmly in West Ham's court. United will now have to decide whether to match Spurs' speed or risk losing out on one of their primary summer targets to a direct Premier League rival.

While personal terms may be nearing a resolution, the financial aspect of the deal remains a significant hurdle. West Ham are reportedly holding out for a fee in the region of £80-85m for their prized asset. The Hammers are fully aware of the midfielder's high ceiling and are unwilling to grant a "relegation discount" despite their drop to the second tier of English football.

Both Tottenham and Manchester United are expected to try and negotiate that price tag down in the coming weeks. With Spurs aiming to complete as many as seven signings this summer, they will need to balance their budget carefully. Nevertheless, the momentum currently sits with the north Londoners as they look to wrap up a deal for one of the most sought-after midfielders in the country.

Spurs are making significant strides in the transfer market under Roberto De Zerbi, aiming to overhaul their squad after a challenging campaign. According to transfer expert Matteo Moretto, the club is now "very close" to agreeing personal terms with the 21-year-old midfielder, who is widely considered one of the brightest young talents in the Premier League despite West Ham's recent struggles.

While Manchester United have long identified Fernandes as a priority target, Tottenham have moved aggressively to steal a march on their rivals. The player is reportedly open to a move to north London as he looks to remain in the top flight and avoid a season in the Championship. However, formal club-to-club contact between Spurs and West Ham is yet to take place as negotiations continue on the player's side.

The pursuit of Fernandes is part of a broader strategy to transform the midfield at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The club has already been active elsewhere, with reports suggesting they are also pushing for Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali. Securing both players would represent a massive statement of intent, especially given the competition from other top-six sides for Tonali's signature.

The London outfit have already been busy in the window, securing the services of Andy Robertson, Jan Paul van Hecke and Marcos Senesi. With Fernandes and Tonali in their sights, De Zerbi is clearly looking to add both technical quality and defensive energy to his engine room. Fernandes is coming off a productive campaign with West Ham, having made 39 appearances across all competitions last season, scoring five goals and providing five assists.

Despite Tottenham’s progress, United remain a serious threat in the race for Fernandes. The Old Trafford hierarchy turned their focus toward the Portuguese youngster after finding deals for Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson and Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni too difficult to conclude. It has been widely suggested that Fernandes admires United and would be keen on the prospect of playing alongside his international teammate, Bruno Fernandes.

The Red Devils' interest makes the recent breakthrough for Spurs even more critical. If Tottenham can finalise an agreement on personal terms with the "superstar" midfielder - who only joined West Ham in the summer of 2025 from Southampton in a deal worth over £40m, signing a contract until 2030 - it puts the ball firmly in West Ham's court. United will now have to decide whether to match Spurs' speed or risk losing out on one of their primary summer targets to a direct Premier League rival.

While personal terms may be nearing a resolution, the financial aspect of the deal remains a significant hurdle. West Ham are reportedly holding out for a fee in the region of £80-85m for their prized asset. The Hammers are fully aware of the midfielder's high ceiling and are unwilling to grant a "relegation discount" despite their drop to the second tier of English football.

Both Tottenham and Manchester United are expected to try and negotiate that price tag down in the coming weeks. With Spurs aiming to complete as many as seven signings this summer, they will need to balance their budget carefully. Nevertheless, the momentum currently sits with the north Londoners as they look to wrap up a deal for one of the most sought-after midfielders in the country.