EPL Index

Villarreal Secure Manor Solomon on Loan

Villarreal have strengthened their attack by completing the signing of winger Manor Solomon on a season-long loan from Tottenham Hotspur, as reported by The Athletic. Solomon, 26, had been weighing up his options on deadline day with Crystal Palace initially in talks, yet the opportunity in La Liga proved decisive.

“He spent the 2024-25 season on loan at Leeds United and helped the club win promotion to the Premier League.” That successful spell only added to his appeal across Europe.

Solomon’s departure was made possible when France forward Randal Kolo Muani joined Spurs on a season-long loan from Paris Saint-Germain. As one senior figure put it, “The squad needed balance, and Solomon’s move was the natural consequence of Kolo Muani’s arrival.”

Villarreal will see Solomon as a player entering his prime, one with pace and invention, and one who now carries valuable Premier League experience.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Excited Villarreal supporters will be hopeful that Manor Solomon finally finds stability and consistency after several loan moves. The winger has shown flashes of brilliance, notably during his time at Leeds where he was instrumental in guiding the club back to the Premier League. That experience suggests he has the resilience and quality to adapt quickly in Spain.

For Tottenham fans, this deal might be met with mixed feelings. On one hand, the arrival of Randal Kolo Muani has generated genuine optimism, offering fresh options in attack. On the other hand, Solomon’s departure reduces depth in wide positions, and his ability to turn matches with direct running will be missed by some.

Crystal Palace supporters may feel disappointed too, as Solomon appeared close to a move that would have bolstered their attacking ranks. Instead, Villarreal have gained a player with flair who could be decisive in La Liga.

Expectancy surrounds this signing, and while Solomon has yet to consistently deliver at the very highest level, this chapter in Spain may be the platform he needs to establish himself as a reliable force in European football.

Tottenham Hotspur Secure Randal Kolo Muani on Dramatic Deadline Day

Tottenham Hotspur have completed the signing of Randal Kolo Muani in a move that sees the Paris Saint-Germain forward join on loan until June 2026. The deal was confirmed late on transfer deadline day after Spurs accelerated their pursuit of attacking reinforcements due to Dominic Solanke’s ankle injury.

Fabrizio Romano broke the news, posting:

“🚨⚪️ BREAKING: Randal Kolo Muani to Tottenham, here we go! Deal done for loan move until June 2026. Paris Saint-Germain accept Spurs proposal as Kolo Muani wanted the move + out of the project. Exclusive story, confirmed. 💣🏁”

Thomas Frank’s Immediate Need for a Striker

The arrival of Thomas Frank as Tottenham manager earlier this summer marked a new chapter for the club, but the sudden injury to Solanke forced his hand. With the England international facing a spell on the sidelines, Spurs needed a reliable forward to maintain their attacking balance. Kolo Muani, who lifted the Champions League trophy with PSG last season, was identified as the right fit for Frank’s system.

The French international had been unsettled in Paris and was keen to find regular football in a competitive environment. Tottenham’s proposal was therefore met with enthusiasm, as Kolo Muani wanted a new challenge away from the PSG project.

Long-term Commitment Through Loan Deal

While the move is officially structured as a loan, the agreement runs until 2026, providing Spurs with a level of security in attack as they plan their squad for the coming seasons. Such a lengthy loan is unusual in modern football but reflects Tottenham’s determination to strengthen decisively at a crucial time.

This approach also allows the club to manage finances carefully while giving Kolo Muani the platform to re-establish himself as a leading forward in European football.

Fabrizio Romano Confirms Exclusive Details

The deal was first reported by Fabrizio Romano, whose updates once again captured the urgency of deadline day. Romano’s announcement that PSG had accepted Tottenham’s bid underlined how quickly negotiations progressed. His report also confirmed that Kolo Muani had directly pushed for the move, ensuring that the transfer was finalised before the window closed.

For Spurs supporters, the signing of a proven Champions League winner adds optimism at a moment when injuries could have derailed early-season momentum. Kolo Muani’s versatility across the forward line is expected to provide Frank with tactical flexibility as Tottenham aim to compete strongly in both domestic and European competitions.

Tottenham vs AFC Bournemouth: Premier League Preview

Tottenham Hotspur have started the Premier League season with renewed energy and organisation under Thomas Frank. The opening two matches produced a commanding 3-0 victory over Burnley, followed by a disciplined 2-0 win at Manchester City, where a fresh tactical approach highlighted the early impact of the new manager. While there have been frustrations in the transfer market, the mood around the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has improved significantly thanks to results on the pitch.

AFC Bournemouth will arrive in North London confident of causing problems. Andoni Iraola’s side gave Liverpool a real test on the opening day, then secured a 1-0 win against Wolves in a match where the scoreline flattered their opponents. This encounter should provide an excellent measure of where both clubs stand at this stage of the season.

Match Details and Kick-Off Time

Tottenham vs Bournemouth takes place at 3pm BST on Saturday 30 August 2025 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. As the match falls under the Saturday afternoon blackout, it will not be shown live on television in the UK. Supporters can access highlights on the Sky Sports app and YouTube from 5.15pm, while Match of the Day will broadcast extended coverage on BBC One at 10.20pm.

Team Updates Ahead of Tottenham vs Bournemouth

Tottenham hope to have Destiny Udogie available following a knee injury sustained in pre-season. Even if fit, the Italian full-back is not expected to start, meaning Djed Spence should continue on the left side. Key midfielders James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski remain sidelined, as do Radu Dragusin and Kota Takia, while Manor Solomon and Bryan Gil are out of Frank’s plans for the foreseeable.

For Bournemouth, the picture is similar to last weekend. Enes Unal, Julian Araujo and Lewis Cook are all recovering and are not due back until next month at the earliest. Iraola will therefore rely on the same group that secured three points against Wolves.

Prediction for Tottenham vs Bournemouth

Tottenham look markedly different from the side that leaked goals under Ange Postecoglou. Frank has already instilled structure and belief, with his side blending controlled possession and defensive discipline. Bournemouth are usually dangerous on the road, with players capable of producing moments of quality, but Spurs have shown early signs of balance across the pitch.

Given the form of Richarlison and the defensive improvements, Spurs appear well placed to continue their winning start. Bournemouth are capable of finding the net, but Tottenham’s superiority in both penalty areas points towards another victory for the home side.

Prediction: Tottenham Hotspur 2-1 AFC Bournemouth

Head-to-Head record

Last season Tottenham failed to defeat Bournemouth home or away, a rare slip in this fixture. Spurs still hold a clear advantage in overall meetings.

Tottenham Open Talks With Manchester City Over Ake Move

Spurs eye defensive reinforcements before deadline

Tottenham Hotspur are weighing up a late move for Manchester City’s Nathan Ake, according to GiveMeSport. Club officials reportedly opened talks during last weekend’s clash between the two sides, with Spurs keen to explore what it would take to finalise a deal before Monday’s 7pm deadline.

Head coach Thomas Frank has already overseen significant investment this summer, with Mohammed Kudus arriving from West Ham United in a £55million deal. The sale of Heung-min Son to Los Angeles FC for over £20million earlier this month has added further funds, allowing Spurs to pursue high-profile reinforcements.

Face-to-face discussions with City

GMS sources indicate that Tottenham are conducting a “wide-reaching search” for defensive options, despite starting the Premier League season with back-to-back clean sheets. The club’s decision-makers took the opportunity to hold face-to-face talks with City counterparts, gauging the possibility of an eleventh-hour deal.

Ake, 30, has two years left on his £160,000-per-week contract and came off the bench during City’s defeat to Spurs. Pep Guardiola has described the Netherlands international as “incredible,” underlining the calibre of the player Tottenham are targeting.

Frank keen to strengthen defensive depth

Frank is said to be a firm admirer of Ake’s versatility. The Dutchman’s ability to operate as a centre-back or left-back would provide cover for Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven and Destiny Udogie, bolstering Spurs’ defensive depth as they prepare for a demanding campaign.

Ake’s City journey and potential fresh start

Ake has been with Manchester City since August 2020, when he completed a £40million move from Bournemouth. His role under Guardiola has highlighted his tactical intelligence, composure in possession and adaptability. Tottenham’s interest demonstrates Frank’s determination to add proven quality to a squad aiming to build on last season’s silverware.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Targeting a player like Nathan Ake, who has played a crucial part in Manchester City’s dominance under Pep Guardiola, shows that Spurs are no longer content with simply filling gaps but are instead looking to assemble a squad capable of competing at the highest level.

Ake’s tactical intelligence and ability to seamlessly switch between central defence and left-back would be invaluable for Thomas Frank. While Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven have formed a strong partnership, adding a defender with Ake’s Champions League-winning experience would offer stability and depth, especially with European football back on the agenda.

The departure of Heung-min Son has brought in significant funds, and it is clear those resources are being reinvested strategically. Bringing in Ake would not only strengthen the defence but also show the rest of the league that Spurs are serious about challenging both domestically and in Europe. For fans, these ambitions reflect a club evolving into one of England’s most progressive outfits under Frank’s leadership.

Spurs Complete €60m Deal for Xavi Simons

Agreement finalised with RB Leipzig

Tottenham have secured the signing of Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig for a fee worth €60m, according to Fabrizio Romano. The transfer has been fully agreed and confirmed after overnight negotiations.

Medical and contract completed

“Xavi has completed his medical and his contract is also now signed,” Romano reported, confirming Spurs’ swift action to wrap up the deal ahead of the transfer deadline.

Strategic move for Spurs

This signing marks a statement of intent from Spurs, adding a highly regarded midfielder with proven versatility and creativity to their squad.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Securing Xavi Simons, a player admired across Europe, is a strong indicator of ambition from the club’s hierarchy. Fans have long called for decisive action in the transfer market, and this move shows Spurs are serious about challenging at the top level.

Simons’ reputation precedes him. With his vision, pace and technical brilliance, he has the potential to reshape Spurs’ attacking approach, offering creativity from midfield and an ability to influence games in decisive moments. The reported €60m fee represents a significant investment but one that reflects his quality and potential to become a star in the Premier League.

Spurs supporters will be excited about how Simons fits into Thomas Frank’s dynamic system. His ability to play multiple roles, from advanced midfield positions to wide areas, adds depth and flexibility. This transfer also sends a message to rivals that Tottenham are building a squad to compete for honours now, not simply in future seasons.

Tottenham Agree Vuskovic Loan Exit as Bissouma Nears Galatasaray Move

Hamburg Secure Loan Deal for Vuskovic

Tottenham have agreed to send Luka Vuskovic on loan to Hamburg, according to The Standard. The 18-year-old defender, who officially joined Spurs this summer following a two-year agreement, will spend the season in the Bundesliga to gain valuable first-team experience. The move is a straight loan with no option to buy.

Defensive Reinforcements Now a Priority

Vuskovic’s departure adds urgency to Tottenham’s defensive recruitment plans in the final days of the window. While the club continues to focus on signing a No10 and a winger, Thomas Frank is also keen to strengthen at centre-back. The decision to sanction Vuskovic’s exit signals a stronger push for a defensive addition.

Injury Concerns Shape Squad Planning

Spurs’ defensive depth has been tested with Kota Takai missing pre-season due to a foot injury and Radu Dragusin sidelined by an ACL injury. With Kevin Danso and Ben Davies left as the primary options, a new signing is increasingly likely to arrive.

Midfield Changes on the Horizon

Yves Bissouma is also set for a move to Galatasaray, giving Tottenham further decisions to make in shaping their midfield options. His exit would provide additional funds and squad flexibility for late business.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Luka Vuskovic’s loan to Hamburg is a sensible decision for a teenager who needs regular game time to develop, and Tottenham fans will hope this is the start of a pathway that produces a long-term first-team regular.

However, the deal also underlines the squad’s current vulnerabilities. Injuries to Radu Dragusin and Kota Takai have left Tottenham light at centre-back, and with Champions League commitments ahead, adding defensive reinforcements has become critical. Spurs fans will expect the club to move decisively to secure a reliable, experienced option who can immediately provide stability.

Yves Bissouma’s likely departure to Galatasaray adds another layer of intrigue. His exit will open up space in midfield and potentially boost the club’s spending power. Supporters will be curious to see if this leads to a marquee signing in another position, especially as Tottenham continue their search for a creative No10.

Overall, there is a sense of excitement around the club’s direction. With a refreshed squad under Thomas Frank and a clear strategy to back young talents like Vuskovic while investing in proven quality, Spurs fans will expect a strong finish to the transfer window that matches the club’s ambitions.

Man City Stand Firm on Savinho as Spurs Interest Ends

City Refuse to Consider Sale

According to Fabrizio Romano, Manchester City have informed Tottenham that their stance on Savinho remains unchanged, ruling out any possibility of a transfer. “Manchester City have no intention to let him go, not even for a fee over €70m,” Romano reported, underlining the Brazilian’s importance.

Future Plans for Savinho

Savinho is regarded as a “key player for the season and for future” at City, making any negotiations with Spurs redundant. The club’s decision also removes any chance of Rodrygo joining City this summer, with squad plans now settled.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Tottenham fans, this update will feel like another reminder of the gap in power between clubs in the Premier League. Spurs’ interest in Savinho reflected a desire to add dynamism and flair to Thomas Frank’s squad, but City’s hardline stance shows they are unwilling to weaken their depth, especially for a player seen as crucial for both the present and future.

Fans may be frustrated by how quickly the move was shut down. Spurs supporters, already craving attacking reinforcements to complement their new-look forward line, may see this as a missed opportunity to make a statement signing. The fact that City refused even to consider offers over €70m highlights how highly they value Savinho and how tough it will be for Tottenham to compete at that level.

Rodrygo’s blocked move to City also changes little for Spurs, who may have hoped the Brazilian’s availability would create an opportunity in the market. Instead, the focus may now shift to more realistic targets as Deadline Day nears.

Tottenham have improved under Frank, but this saga reinforces the challenge of building a squad capable of competing with financially dominant rivals like City. For supporters, this rejection feels like a missed chance to add a young star who could elevate Spurs’ ambitions both domestically and in Europe.

Spurs Transfer Frustration Grows After Another Target Slips Away

Tottenham’s hopes of strengthening their squad before the transfer deadline are facing another setback, with The Mirror reporting that Serie A club Como have rejected a £50m bid for highly-rated midfielder Nico Paz. The 20-year-old Argentine has attracted major attention this summer, with Real Madrid closely monitoring his progress but unwilling to sanction a deal at this stage.

Como are believed to value Paz at £70m, a figure that reflects both his potential and their leverage in negotiations. Tottenham remain keen, but this latest rejection adds to a string of frustrations in a window where they have already missed out on Eberechi Eze, Morgan Gibbs-White and Bryan Mbeumo.

Como Holding Firm Over Rising Star

Paz’s stock has risen dramatically since leaving Real Madrid’s B team for Como in a £5m deal last year, with Madrid retaining a strong relationship and future options on the player. The Italian club are content to hold their position, knowing that top clubs are circling and that his value could increase further over the next year.

Spurs Recruitment Challenges

Manager Thomas Frank has been vocal about the need for reinforcements, particularly in attacking midfield, with James Maddison sidelined for the season and Dejan Kulusevski out until the new year. Despite their impressive Europa League triumph last season and Champions League qualification, Spurs have struggled to convert ambition into decisive deals this summer.

Having been beaten to Eze by rivals Arsenal, Frank’s recruitment team are under increasing pressure. Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche has emerged as a £47.5m option, though competition from Bayer Leverkusen complicates matters. Interest in Manchester City’s Savinho has also stalled, with Pep Guardiola insisting he is not for sale.

Time Running Short for Impact Signings

The rejection from Como leaves Spurs with limited time to add creativity and depth to their squad. With a hectic schedule looming, the inability to close deals for key targets risks undermining the progress Frank has overseen. This is a crucial moment for a club looking to consolidate its place among Europe’s elite.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Spurs fans will be increasingly worried by this trend of failed pursuits. Missing out on Eze was disappointing enough, but seeing Morgan Gibbs-White and Bryan Mbeumo choose other paths has added to the frustration. Now, with Como rejecting a £50m bid for Paz, it feels as though Tottenham’s recruitment team are struggling to turn ambition into action.

Supporters have every right to feel anxious. Frank’s side have Champions League football to contend with, yet the injury list is mounting, with Maddison out for the season and Kulusevski unavailable for months. The lack of attacking reinforcements could leave Spurs exposed as they juggle multiple competitions.

There is a fear that Tottenham are in danger of repeating old mistakes, entering campaigns without adequate depth. The scouting network’s eye for talent is clear, as Paz and Akliouche are both exciting prospects, but Spurs’ negotiating power appears to be faltering compared to rivals like Arsenal and Manchester United.

Fans want decisive moves, not near misses. While Spurs’ recent success under Frank has raised expectations, these transfer struggles show how quickly momentum can slip away. Without swift action, Tottenham risk seeing their hard-earned progress stall.

Spurs Left Searching for Solutions After Missing Out on Key Targets

Tottenham Hotspur’s transfer frustrations continued last week, with The Athletic reporting that their pursuit of Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze was hijacked by Arsenal. The Gunners moved swiftly to secure a £60m deal plus £7.5m in add-ons for the attacking midfielder, leaving Spurs without their primary creative target.

This comes after their earlier failure to sign Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White, marking a disappointing theme of missed opportunities.

Despite these setbacks, Spurs produced an impressive 2-0 victory over Manchester City at the Etihad on Saturday, further underlining Thomas Frank’s growing influence on the squad. The new head coach has found early success with his tactical setup, but the need for reinforcements remains urgent, especially with James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski still recovering from long-term injuries.

Frank, along with chairman Daniel Levy, sporting director Johan Lange and CEO Vinai Venkatesham, faces a key decision. Should they pivot to new targets now, or wait until January? Sources close to the club suggest there is growing concern about squad depth as the season’s fixture list intensifies.

Creative Options Drying Up

Spurs have identified Como’s Nico Paz and Manchester City winger Savinho as potential options, though signing either before the window closes would be complicated. The club’s ambition to sign a high-quality No 10 appears to have stalled, raising concerns about creativity in midfield heading into the Champions League campaign.

Frank’s emphasis on quality over quantity is shaping Spurs’ recruitment approach. “We are working to make the right additions at the right time,” one club source said. “The focus is on improving the starting XI, not simply filling squad spaces.”

Defensive Concerns Loom

Injuries are adding to Spurs’ challenges, with Radu Dragusin sidelined by an ACL injury and new signing Kota Takai recovering from a foot injury. While Kevin Danso impressed in the Super Cup, Frank needs more reliable depth in defence, especially with Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven set for heavy workloads this season.

Reports on Monday linked Spurs with Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapie, but interest has cooled, with Arsenal now working on a deal for the Ecuadorian international. Spurs’ reluctance to engage in that pursuit reflects a cautious approach as they assess realistic late-window options.

Potential Departures Create Uncertainty

Hamburg are in discussions to take 18-year-old Luka Vuskovic on loan, a move seen as vital for his development. Meanwhile, Yves Bissouma’s future looks increasingly uncertain. Frank has left him out of recent squads, citing lateness and a minor injury, and his contract runs out next year. A departure is being considered, with Spurs looking to refresh their midfield options.

Manor Solomon’s future also remains unresolved after his loan spell with Leeds United, while Bryan Gil has been given the green light to leave. The final days of the window could therefore see as much focus on exits as signings.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

This transfer window has been a bitter reminder of Tottenham’s struggles to close major deals. Losing Eze to Arsenal was not just a blow in footballing terms, it felt like a symbolic setback, showing their rivals’ ruthlessness while Spurs hesitated. Missing out on Gibbs-White earlier in the window only compounds that frustration. Supporters wanted evidence that the club could capitalise on Frank’s promising start, yet recruitment feels slow and reactive.

The lack of a creative signing is particularly worrying. Maddison’s absence has been felt, and without a proven playmaker, Spurs risk losing the attacking fluidity that defined their strong performances last season. While Nico Paz and Savinho are exciting prospects, neither appears close to joining, and fans are questioning the ambition of the board.

Defensive depth is another concern. Romero and Van de Ven are elite defenders, but their workloads could become unsustainable if reinforcements are not secured. The decision not to move for Hincapie has also raised eyebrows among fans who crave bold action.

Ultimately, Spurs’ strong results under Frank have bought time, but fans know that success in the Champions League and domestic competitions requires more. The feeling is that Spurs are in danger of falling short yet again because of indecision in the market.

Tottenham Hotspur Injury Update: Thomas Frank Managing Key Absences

Thomas Frank has made a dream start to life at Tottenham Hotspur, overseeing back-to-back Premier League victories against Burnley and Manchester City. A 3-0 win at Turf Moor was followed by a disciplined 2-0 triumph over the champions, results that have immediately set a positive tone. Yet behind the scenes, Spurs are already wrestling with a lengthy injury list that could shape the early months of the season.

Destiny Udogie Edging Closer

The outlook for Destiny Udogie is improving. The left-back has been back in full training after missing the club’s pre-season tour with a knee injury sustained during the warm-up for a friendly against Luton. Thomas Frank explained before the City match: “Destiny is better. He’s trained with the team twice, full training sessions, and also other trainings. He is just too short [of fitness] to be involved for City. We want him to train [on Saturday] and have another good week next week as well, but he’s in a good place. Looks very positive about him.”

Bournemouth at home on 30 August has been pencilled in as a potential return date, a welcome boost given Udogie’s importance in transition and his growing influence down the left flank.

Yves Bissouma Setback

Yves Bissouma has endured a frustrating start to the campaign. Left out of the UEFA Super Cup for disciplinary reasons, the midfielder then suffered an untimely injury in training on the eve of the Premier League opener. Frank confirmed after the Burnley game: “Unfortunately he got injured in training yesterday so very unfortunate. An injury we look into how much it is.”

There is no current timeline for his return, leaving a gap in midfield rotation that Spurs will need to manage carefully in the weeks ahead.

Dejan Kulusevski Facing Long Absence

The biggest blow for Tottenham Hotspur remains Dejan Kulusevski. The Swedish international underwent knee surgery in May and has not featured since. Earlier reports suggested he could be sidelined until 2026. Frank was clear when addressing his situation before the City match: “No Kulusevski, he’s out. That’s a longer one, I don’t want to put a timeframe on it.”

His absence robs Spurs of creativity and drive in the final third, particularly as fixtures pile up later in the season.

Other Injuries Impacting Squad Depth

James Maddison is another high-profile casualty after rupturing his ACL in pre-season against Newcastle. The midfielder is expected to miss most of the campaign, with a return only likely in April 2026. A club statement confirmed he will undergo long-term rehabilitation, with full support from Tottenham Hotspur’s medical team.

Radu Dragusin is recovering from his own ACL injury suffered in January. The Romanian defender has been vocal about his determination, stating: “I had to learn how to walk again. I was on crutches, my knee was really stiff from the surgery. It was a long process but, once I got back to normal walking, it became a positive journey. But honestly, I just want to be back on the pitch training with the boys again.” Late 2025 is viewed as a realistic target.

Elsewhere, new signing Kota Takai is waiting on a plantar fascia injury assessment, Manor Solomon has returned to training but may depart on loan, and Bryan Gil continues his recovery from knee ligament surgery.

Frank’s Early Challenge

Two straight league victories have given Thomas Frank the perfect start, but injuries are an unavoidable narrative. His ability to integrate returning players like Udogie and Bissouma, while finding solutions without Kulusevski and Maddison, will be central to Tottenham Hotspur’s progress this season. The early signs are promising, yet the injury update serves as a reminder of the squad management required at the highest level.