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Tottenham Given Green Light for Maghnes Akliouche Transfer

Tottenham Hotspur have been told that Monaco will accept an offer of around £47.5 million for Maghnes Akliouche, according to a new report from Football Insider. Senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed on their Inside Track podcast that Spurs have now accelerated their pursuit of the French playmaker as they look to add quality to Thomas Frank’s squad.

Maghnes Akliouche Emerges as Spurs’ Key Target

Tottenham’s pursuit of a wide attacker has been a running theme of this summer window. Following two unsuccessful bids for Manchester City’s Savinho, valued at £70 million, Spurs have switched their focus towards Monaco’s versatile star.

Speaking on Football Insider’s podcast, O’Rourke explained, “The one that seems to be catching their eye is the Monaco star, Maghnes Akliouche. He’s a very talented young player, and could be available for around £47.5million.”

Akliouche has built a reputation in Ligue 1 since making his debut in 2021. With 13 goals and 14 assists already in his career, the 23-year-old has demonstrated consistency, creativity, and the ability to play across several attacking roles. O’Rourke continued, “He’s a top young player, 23 years old, probably one of the most exciting young talents in Ligue 1 right now – he can play as a winger, or as a number 10 as well.”

Transfer Setbacks Push Spurs Towards Monaco Star

Tottenham’s frustrations in the market have been well-documented. Their initial pursuit of Savinho ended with Manchester City standing firm on a £70 million valuation, while Eberechi Eze was snapped up by Arsenal. Attempts to lure Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa were met with a £100 million price tag.

This has left Spurs considering alternative solutions. According to Football Insider sources, Monaco are prepared to sanction Akliouche’s departure for £47.5 million, giving Tottenham a more accessible option compared to Savinho’s inflated valuation.

Former goalkeeper Paul Robinson also told Football Insider that Tottenham will not completely rule out Savinho, but Akliouche represents the realistic route forward.

Thomas Frank Needs Reinforcements

Tottenham have made a bright start to the new Premier League season, with wins over Burnley and Manchester City, but the injury to James Maddison has left Frank short of attacking depth. Akliouche’s profile makes him an appealing addition, especially given his flexibility to operate both wide and centrally.

As O’Rourke summarised, “If Tottenham aren’t able to resurrect their deal for Savinho, Akliouche would be a decent alternative, and it does seem that Monaco would sell at the right price.”

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As a Tottenham fan, this feels like the kind of transfer news we have been waiting for. Thomas Frank has steadied the ship brilliantly since arriving, but he needs players who can make an immediate difference in attack. Akliouche ticks all the boxes.

The fact that Monaco are willing to negotiate at around £47.5 million is huge. Compared to the astronomical £70 million quoted for Savinho or the £100 million demanded for Morgan Rogers, this feels like a proper opportunity. He is young, hungry, and already producing in Ligue 1. That is exactly the profile of player Spurs should be targeting.

What excites me most is his versatility. With Maddison sidelined and our options stretched, Akliouche can slot in as a creative number 10 or drift wide to stretch defences. He is not just a flashy name, he is a genuine problem solver for this squad.

If Daniel Levy and the board can get this deal wrapped up quickly, it would show ambition and decisiveness. We have missed out on too many targets already, but this one feels right. Akliouche could be the signing that elevates Spurs from contenders to genuine challengers under Thomas Frank this season.

Tottenham Step Up Pursuit Of Savinho As Transfer Window Heats Up

Tottenham Hotspur have intensified discussions with Manchester City regarding a deal for Brazilian winger Savinho, with talks held over the weekend. According to The Daily Mail, Spurs are prepared to table a £60 million offer as Thomas Frank pushes for further attacking reinforcements.

Savinho’s Desire For First-Team Football

The 21-year-old Brazilian has been left out of City’s opening two squads, including the 2-0 defeat to Tottenham at the Etihad. His representatives have been working hard to secure a move, with The Daily Mail reporting that “the Brazilian’s agent had jetted in from South America with a view to getting a deal over the line.”

Savinho is said to be keen to become a regular starter in the Premier League, with one eye on Brazil’s World Cup campaign next year. The player’s situation aligns with Tottenham’s need for pace, creativity and depth in wide areas, especially following the disappointment of missing out on Eberechi Eze.

Spurs React To Arsenal Hijacking Eze Deal

Tottenham had believed they were on the verge of signing Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace. However, within hours the move collapsed as Arsenal hijacked the deal. As The Daily Mail notes, “Spurs had switched their primary focus to No 10 target Eberechi Eze… But within hours, the north London club saw their deal hijacked by their loathed rivals Arsenal.”

Eze was unveiled at the Emirates before Arsenal’s 5-0 win against Leeds, leaving Tottenham frustrated and scrambling for alternatives. This setback has accelerated interest in Savinho, while also forcing the club to widen their net in the final week of the window.

Brazilian Talent High On Tottenham Agenda

In addition to Savinho, Spurs are exploring a potential move for Lucas Paqueta. The West Ham midfielder has endured a challenging period amid betting allegations but continues to impress on the pitch. He was “a solitary bright spark during his side’s woeful 5-1 defeat to Chelsea,” finding the net before his team crumbled.

Paqueta’s desire to join a Champions League club could work in Tottenham’s favour, although competition from Aston Villa is expected. Spurs also maintain an interest in Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche and Leicester’s El Bilal Khannouss, both viewed as long-term investments.

Final Week Of Window Set To Be Pivotal

Tottenham’s recruitment drive is not limited to incomings. Young defender Luka Vuskovic looks set to join Hamburg on loan, while further departures are possible before the deadline. The sense around the club is that Spurs are determined to end the window strongly, having already landed Mohammed Kudus earlier in the summer.

If Spurs can secure Savinho, it would represent a major statement of intent, particularly given the manner in which rivals Arsenal disrupted their move for Eze. Frank’s victory over Guardiola at the weekend only heightened optimism that new additions can help Tottenham mount a serious challenge both domestically and in Europe.

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As a Tottenham supporter reading this report, there is a sense of cautious excitement. The disappointment of losing Eze to Arsenal still stings, especially as it felt like he was days away from walking through the doors at Hotspur Way. Seeing him paraded at the Emirates hours before a big Arsenal win was a bitter pill to swallow.

That said, the focus shifting quickly to Savinho feels like a positive response. Spending £60 million is no small statement and the idea of bringing in a young, hungry Brazilian winger is appealing. His determination to start regularly could mesh well with Thomas Frank’s system, which thrives on energy and intensity.

Paqueta is another name that excites, though the ongoing betting allegations cast some doubt. Still, he has proven quality in the Premier League and could bring the flair Spurs often lack in midfield. The mention of Maghnes Akliouche and El Bilal Khannouss shows that the scouting network is casting its net wide, something that should reassure fans that we are not putting all our eggs in one basket.

Overall, the mood is that Frank and the recruitment team must not leave this window half-finished. Missing out on Eze hurt, but if Savinho and possibly one more attacking midfielder arrive before the deadline, Spurs fans will start to believe this season could be something special.

Spurs Raise Offer for Nico Paz as Transfer Battle Intensifies

Tottenham Hotspur are pressing ahead with their pursuit of Nico Paz, submitting a second offer worth €50 million to Como, according to Sky Sports Italia. The Italian side, however, remain firm in their €70 million valuation of the Argentine playmaker, with no agreement yet in sight.

Spurs had already tested Como’s resolve earlier this month with a €40 million bid, which was swiftly rejected. Sources close to the negotiation suggest Tottenham are determined to land the 19-year-old, with one insider saying, “The club are ready to back their manager’s vision, and Nico Paz is seen as a player with huge potential.”

Rising Stock in Serie A

Paz’s rapid rise in Serie A has been hard to ignore. The midfielder made 35 league appearances for Como in the 2024-25 season, registering six goals and nine assists. His creativity and maturity have drawn praise across Europe, while Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni has pre-selected him for upcoming national fixtures, further increasing his market value.

Tottenham’s Ambition

Tottenham’s willingness to push towards €50 million signals their intent to invest heavily in attacking quality. The club see Paz as a key part of their long-term rebuild, but negotiations are expected to be drawn out, with Como reluctant to lose one of their brightest assets.

As things stand, there is no green light from either Como or Paz, but Spurs’ persistence has set the stage for a fascinating end to the window.

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For Tottenham fans, this saga will feel like a sign of ambition after seasons of frustration. Spurs have often been accused of hesitating in the transfer market, but moving from €40 million to €50 million for a 19-year-old talent shows a clear shift in strategy. Supporters will admire the club’s willingness to back the manager’s vision and bring in a creative midfielder capable of shaping their attack for years to come.

Paz’s numbers in Serie A speak volumes. At just 19, producing six goals and nine assists in a league as tactical and demanding as Italy’s shows his maturity and football intelligence. Many fans will be encouraged by his inclusion in Scaloni’s plans for Argentina, which underlines his reputation on the world stage.

However, the €70 million price tag is steep, especially for a player with only one full top-flight season under his belt. Spurs fans will hope that Levy and the board can strike a sensible deal without overpaying. If this move happens, it will mark a huge statement of intent, demonstrating Tottenham’s commitment to building a squad capable of competing at the highest level.

Arsenal Eye Piero Hincapie as Transfer Window Closes

David Ornstein of The Athletic has reported that Arsenal are working on a deal to sign Piero Hincapie from Bayer Leverkusen, provided they can move players out before the summer transfer window shuts. The Ecuadorian defender has informed the Bundesliga club of his desire to leave, despite being under contract until June 2029.

“They would prefer to keep the 23-year-old unless a €60million release clause in his terms is activated, although efforts are being made to lower that fee to a more realistic market value.” Arsenal remain optimistic, knowing Hincapie’s preference is to join them, and the club are ready to push if player departures materialise. His emotional reaction following Leverkusen’s 2-1 defeat to Hoffenheim on Saturday only intensified speculation.

Why Arsenal Want Hincapie

Arsenal’s recent dominant win still exposed defensive gaps, and the recruitment of a left-sided centre-back appears a priority. Jakub Kiwior is being linked with a move to FC Porto, while Oleksandr Zinchenko, Fabio Vieira and Reiss Nelson are among those who could also leave.

“Hincapie normally operate as a left centre-back but can also be deployed at left-back,” and his versatility is key. Having joined Leverkusen from CA Talleres in 2021, he has since made 166 appearances for the German club and earned 46 caps for Ecuador. Arsenal have monitored him for some time, and his technical ability fits Mikel Arteta’s system.

Proven Success in Germany

Hincapie has been one of Europe’s most promising defenders. He was integral to Leverkusen’s historic 2023-24 campaign, where they went unbeaten in the Bundesliga, lifted the DFB-Pokal and reached the Europa League final. “A versatile, technical and aggressive left-sided defender, who can play on the outside of a back-three, or even as a wing-back,” was how he was described in The Athletic’s analysis.

With Leverkusen already losing Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Amine Adli, Granit Xhaka and Jonathan Tah, the pressure is mounting to keep their remaining stars. Yet Hincapie’s ambition to play in the Premier League could prove decisive.

Departure Looming?

Whether Arsenal trigger the €60m release clause or negotiate a lower price, time is running short. This potential signing would add quality and depth to Arsenal’s backline as they push for major honours this season.

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This report will have Arsenal fans buzzing with excitement. A 23-year-old defender who helped Bayer Leverkusen dominate Germany last season is a massive upgrade in terms of technical ability and tactical flexibility. Fans will point to his ability to cover multiple positions as a reason why this could be one of the smartest deals of the summer.

However, some will be sceptical about the €60m price tag. Is Arsenal ready to commit such an amount so late in the window? Others will express concern about outgoings, as moving players like Zinchenko or Kiwior could be tricky under time pressure.

Still, the mood among the fanbase seems expectant. Hincapie represents the type of signing that signals ambition. If Arteta wants his side to stay in the title conversation, adding defensive steel without sacrificing build-up quality is critical. Expect plenty of noise as this deal heads into the final days.

Sheffield United Agree Fee for Japhet Tanganga as Transfer Nears Completion

According to Sky Sports, Sheffield United have taken a major step towards securing the signing of defender Japhet Tanganga after agreeing a fee with Millwall. The deal now hinges on final details being completed, with both clubs optimistic about reaching an agreement before the transfer window closes.

Key Talks Underway Between Clubs

Sky Sports confirmed the development, stating: “Sheffield United have agreed a fee with Millwall for defender Japhet Tanganga.” It is understood that discussions are now focused on personal terms and final paperwork to ensure the move goes through smoothly.

Tanganga’s absence from Millwall’s squad during their 1-0 victory over Sheffield United added weight to the speculation surrounding his future. The 25-year-old centre-back, who has experience at the highest level with Tottenham Hotspur, appears set for a new challenge at Bramall Lane as the Blades look to reinforce their defensive options.

Millwall Manager Confirms Progress in Talks

Millwall boss Alex Neil acknowledged that talks were well advanced, explaining his decision to leave Tanganga out of the squad. “The fact that I took him out of the game, obviously, things have moved on,” he told reporters after the match.

Neil added: “As far as I know, things are not at a conclusion stage just now. I had a good chat with Japhet earlier today. So we’ll see what transpires over the next couple of days.”

Why Sheffield United Want Tanganga

Sheffield United have been keen to strengthen their backline, having struggled for consistency in defence. Tanganga offers versatility, being able to play as a central defender or full-back, and brings valuable Premier League experience to a squad eager to stabilise its form.

The move signals intent from the club to build resilience at the back, a priority as they aim to climb the Championship table and push for a stronger second half of the season. For Tanganga, this transfer represents a chance to revive his career after limited opportunities in recent years.

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For Sheffield United, this potential signing feels like smart business. Japhet Tanganga might not be a headline-grabbing name, but he is exactly the type of player who can add strength and flexibility to a squad that needs defensive depth. His ability to play both centrally and on the flanks gives the manager tactical options, which have been lacking at times this season.

Many fans will remember Tanganga’s early promise at Tottenham, where he impressed with his composure and physical presence. Injuries and fierce competition saw his game time diminish, but at 25, he is still at an age where his best years could be ahead of him.

Defensive stability has been an issue, and adding someone with top-flight experience should help shore things up. If the fee remains reasonable and his wages fit within the structure, this transfer could prove to be a low-risk, high-reward deal. The next step is integrating him quickly so that he can make an impact during a crucial part of the campaign.

Tottenham Make Bold Move for Savinho After Eze Blow

According to Mail Sport, Tottenham Hotspur have turned their full attention to signing Manchester City’s Savinho after seeing a major transfer target slip through their fingers. Spurs had believed they were closing in on Eberechi Eze, only to watch Arsenal swoop in and unveil him before their 5-0 victory over Leeds United.

Tottenham Prepare Big Offer for Savinho

Mail Sport reports that “Tottenham are prepared to offer over £60million for the 21-year old Brazilian winger who is open to joining if City accept the offer.” The move underlines Spurs’ intent to strengthen their attacking options before the window closes, particularly after missing out on Eze.

Savinho has been left out of Manchester City’s first two matchday squads this season, including their 2-0 home defeat to Tottenham. His absence is being interpreted as a sign that a departure could be imminent. For the winger, this represents an opportunity to secure the regular first-team role he craves ahead of next year’s World Cup.

Spurs’ Alternative Plans and Wider Targets

While Savinho is now the top priority, Spurs continue to monitor other attacking talents. West Ham’s Lucas Paquetá is on their radar, with Aston Villa also keen. Paquetá remains open to leaving following betting allegations, and his performance in the Hammers’ 5-1 defeat to Chelsea highlighted his quality, scoring the opening goal before his side collapsed.

Elsewhere, Spurs have been linked with Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche and Leicester’s El Bilal Khannouss. The latter’s situation is particularly interesting after he was omitted from Leicester’s squad at the weekend. Coach Marti Cifuentes explained: “We felt it was perhaps not the easiest week and in the end I decided to take him out of the spotlight, just because I think it’s best for him and the team.”

Outgoings and Final Window Moves

As part of their late-window activity, Spurs are also planning departures. Hamburg are close to securing Luka Vuskovic on loan as the north London club continues to reshape the squad under Thomas Frank.

For now, though, all eyes remain on Savinho. With Spurs willing to break the £60m barrier and the player open to the move, it is a question of whether City agree to let one of their brightest young talents leave.

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For Tottenham, this pursuit of Savinho is a bold response after the disappointment of missing out on Eberechi Eze. Seeing Arsenal secure a player Spurs had prioritised stings, but turning to a winger of Savinho’s calibre shows ambition.

The Brazilian’s profile suits Thomas Frank’s style perfectly: pace, direct running and technical sharpness in wide areas. At 21, Savinho also offers long-term value, aligning with Spurs’ desire to build a dynamic, youthful squad capable of competing in Europe consistently. Spending over £60 million is significant, but with Champions League football and increased revenue streams, this is the time to invest in top talent.

Questions will remain over squad balance, particularly if Paquetá or another creative midfielder does not arrive. Spurs need depth in central areas as much as quality out wide. However, landing Savinho would be a statement, showing that Tottenham are ready to challenge rivals aggressively in the market. For supporters, it is reassuring to see the club act decisively after setbacks.

Tottenham Enter Race for Bilal El Khannouss

Crystal Palace Deal Now Under Threat

Crystal Palace’s pursuit of Bilal El Khannouss, which had looked close to completion, may now be at risk. As AfricaFoot revealed, Tottenham Hotspur have entered the race for the Moroccan international, adding late drama to one of the summer’s most intriguing transfer stories.

Palace had reportedly agreed terms with El Khannouss and convinced him of their long-term sporting project. Negotiations with Leicester City centred on payment structure for a fee estimated at €35 million. However, Tottenham’s late intervention could transform the landscape.

AfricaFoot note: “The transfer of Bilal El Khannouss to Crystal Palace, which seemed to be on the right track in recent days… could experience a spectacular turnaround.”

Tottenham’s Need for Creativity

Spurs’ interest follows the collapse of a move for Eberechi Eze, who had been earmarked as cover for the injured James Maddison. This setback reportedly pushed Daniel Levy into action, reigniting Tottenham’s pursuit of El Khannouss.

AfricaFoot also reported: “This relaunch, initiated directly by president Daniel Levy, could change everything just days before the end of the transfer window.”

At just 21 years old, El Khannouss has already demonstrated maturity beyond his years. Despite Leicester’s relegation, his standout performances made him a top target for multiple clubs.

Why El Khannouss is in Demand

As AfricaFoot pointed out, El Khannouss is “considered one of the most promising young talents in his position.” His technical ability, vision, and composure on the ball mark him out as a midfielder capable of excelling in the Premier League.

Former Belgian international Nordin Jbari added his own thoughts, saying: “I would like to see El Khannouss at Bayer Leverkusen.” That alone shows the calibre of club observers who believe in his potential.

Palace or Spurs – What Next?

The next few days will be decisive. Will Tottenham’s financial muscle and urgent need for midfield creativity sway El Khannouss, or will Palace’s earlier groundwork hold strong? Either way, AfricaFoot have spotlighted a transfer saga that looks set to dominate headlines as deadline day looms.

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From a Crystal Palace fan’s perspective, this development feels like a bitterly familiar story. Palace worked hard to convince El Khannouss of their project, and for a club like ours, that groundwork is everything. Seeing Tottenham swoop in late with deeper pockets is frustrating – though not surprising.

On one hand, Palace still have a strong case. El Khannouss would walk straight into our midfield, play regular minutes, and grow into a leader in the side. Tottenham, with their larger squad and higher expectations, might not guarantee the same immediate role. For a 20-year-old looking to develop, Selhurst Park could actually be the better footballing choice.

However, fans know how tough it is to compete when Spurs come knocking. Daniel Levy’s involvement signals they are serious, and Palace’s careful negotiations with Leicester might not be enough if Tottenham simply outbid us.

The big question is whether El Khannouss values guaranteed playing time and Palace’s belief in him, or whether he is swayed by Tottenham’s European ambitions and higher wages. Palace fans will be hoping loyalty to the initial commitment holds, but history suggests we may once again be left ruing another “what could have been.”

Hamburg Move Looms for Tottenham’s Luka Vuskovic

Rising prospect set for Bundesliga challenge

According to Fabrizio Romano, via Sky Sports, Hamburg are close to signing Tottenham defender Luka Vuskovic on loan. The 18-year-old Croatian, who officially linked up with Spurs this summer after a deal was agreed in September 2023 with Hajduk Split, now looks set to head out for valuable experience.

“Newly-promoted Bundesliga side Hamburg are close to signing Tottenham defender Luka Vuskovic on loan,” Romano reported. This development comes just weeks after the teenager’s arrival in North London.

Strategic loan for development

Tottenham have been eager to manage Vuskovic’s pathway carefully. At 18, he is highly regarded but needs regular first-team football to refine his skills. A spell in Germany’s top flight could provide precisely that. Hamburg, fresh from promotion, are searching for defensive reinforcements, making the move mutually beneficial.

Interestingly, Luka’s older brother, Mario Vuskovic, already plays for Hamburg. That family connection could help ease Luka’s transition, giving him both familiarity and support in a new environment.

Long-term Spurs perspective

While Vuskovic is leaving temporarily, Tottenham’s focus remains on the future. The Croatian’s signing was part of a wider recruitment drive targeting youthful potential, and this loan could prove a critical step in preparing him for the demands of the Premier League.

Sky Sports added: “But it appears the Croatian is set for a loan spell this season, with Hamburg reportedly closing in on securing his signature.” Spurs will be watching closely to monitor his progress in the Bundesliga.

What this means for Hamburg

For Hamburg, acquiring a young defender with such promise is a coup. It strengthens their back line as they aim to consolidate Bundesliga status, while also showcasing their ability to attract players from elite Premier League clubs.

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From a Tottenham fan’s perspective, this news is both exciting and slightly frustrating. On the one hand, Vuskovic’s loan to Hamburg makes perfect sense. Spurs cannot yet guarantee him Premier League minutes, and a season in Germany will test his tactical awareness, physicality, and ability to adapt to a faster tempo. The Bundesliga has often proved a strong development ground for young defenders.

However, fans might question whether a loan to a newly-promoted side carries risks. Hamburg’s season is likely to be spent battling relegation, and young players can sometimes suffer confidence knocks in such situations. The positive factor here is his brother Mario already being at the club – Spurs supporters will hope that family support allows Luka to settle quickly and thrive.

Another key thought is about Tottenham’s defensive depth. With Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven as first-choice centre-backs, and Danso and Dragusin being very capable backup, fans may wonder how long it will be before Vuskovic genuinely breaks into the squad. This loan could well be a year of preparation before he comes back ready to challenge for a spot.

Overall, most Spurs fans are likely to support this move. The club’s long-term plan for Vuskovic is clear, and if Hamburg can provide consistent minutes at a competitive level, it may prove one of the best decisions for his growth.

Tottenham Ready to Push Again for Savinho

According to Fabrizio Romano on X, Spurs are preparing to raise their bid for Savinho to over €70m after this weekend’s fixture. The Manchester City hierarchy, who hold influence over the winger’s future, have blocked all approaches in the last 10 days. However, Tottenham are determined to make one last push.

“Understand Tottenham are now prepared to improve their bid for Savinho over €70m, after the game this weekend. Manchester City hierarchy blocked all approaches in the last 10 days but Spurs will give it one more try.”

This signals how highly Thomas Frank values the Brazilian talent, and a successful move would be a statement of ambition for Spurs’ attacking plans.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

If this report is accurate, Tottenham supporters will be buzzing with anticipation. Savinho is one of the brightest prospects in European football, and securing his signature for over €70m would send a powerful message about Spurs’ intent to compete at the top level.

The persistence shown by the club reflects a clear shift in strategy under Thomas Frank, who appears determined to inject flair and pace into his squad. Fans will be excited, but some will also question whether spending such a figure on one player is wise when depth in other positions is needed.

There is also the Manchester City factor. With their hierarchy blocking moves for the past 10 days, Spurs face a major obstacle. Still, the fact that they are “ready to give it one more try” suggests this saga could go down to the wire. For many Spurs fans, this would feel like the biggest summer statement in years.

Man City vs Tottenham: Team News and Predicted Lineups for Premier League Clash

History weighs on Guardiola’s side

Manchester City may have opened their Premier League campaign with a flourish, brushing aside Wolves 4-0, yet the memory of Tottenham’s resilience lingers. Pep Guardiola knows all too well that Spurs remain one of the trickiest puzzles for his team to solve. In their last 12 league meetings, City have only managed four victories, with six defeats—including a bruising 4-0 reverse at the Etihad last season.

City did claim a narrow 1-0 win in February, Erling Haaland providing the decisive goal, but the scars of those setbacks ensure that confidence will be tempered with caution.

Injury picture and returning stars

The champions were handed a timely boost ahead of this encounter. Guardiola confirmed that Phil Foden and Rodri, both absent in the win over Wolves, are fit to return. Their presence brings added stability to a midfield already bolstered by Tijjani Reijnders, who impressed on his competitive debut.

Not everyone is available, however. Josko Gvardiol and Mateo Kovacic remain sidelined, with the latter still recovering from an Achilles problem. Savinho, the young winger linked with a switch to Spurs, also misses out.

Goalkeeping dilemma continues

One of the more intriguing selections comes between the posts. James Trafford is expected to keep his place after deputising against Wolves, despite Ederson now being fit. The Brazilian’s situation has been clouded by speculation over a move to Galatasaray, while rumours swirl about City’s interest in Gianluigi Donnarumma. For now, Trafford appears to have Guardiola’s trust.

Predicted XI and match details

City are unlikely to deviate from their fluid 4-2-3-1 system. Haaland will once again spearhead the attack, supported by the likes of Jérémy Doku and Oscar Bobb. With Foden and Rodri returning, the midfield looks set for balance and control.

Predicted Man City XI (4-2-3-1): Trafford; Lewis, Stones, Dias, Ait-Nouri; Nico Gonzalez, Silva, Reijnders; Doku, Bobb; Haaland

Injured: Kovacic, Gvardiol, Savinho

Kick-off: 12.30pm BST, Saturday 23 August 2025

Venue: Etihad Stadium

Haaland’s goalscoring presence ensures City will enter as favourites, but Tottenham’s history in this fixture warns against any assumptions. For Guardiola, pragmatism may be just as vital as flair.