EPL Index

Manchester United Push for Tottenham Interest in Alejandro Garnacho

Manchester United are stepping up efforts to create competition for Alejandro Garnacho’s signature as the transfer window enters its final stages. According to Give Me Sport, “Manchester United have given Tottenham the green light to come back into the frame to sign Garnacho, according to GMS sources, as there are fears that they will be forced to allow him to join Chelsea for a cut-price fee if no other suitors are prepared to put cash on the table ahead of the summer transfer window slamming shut on September 1.”

This situation underlines the urgency at Old Trafford. Garnacho, once seen as a cornerstone for the future, has fallen out of favour under the current regime. With relations broken and first-team opportunities unlikely, the Argentine winger appears destined for an exit, but United want to avoid losing him at a discount.

Tottenham’s Role in United’s Strategy

Tottenham Hotspur had previously explored a move for Garnacho earlier in the summer, even making checks on his willingness to leave Manchester United. As GMS sources note, Spurs “used intermediaries to gauge what would be needed to recruit Garnacho and also made checks on his desire to leave Manchester United earlier in the transfer window.”

Arsenal’s hijack of Spurs’ move for Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze has shifted Tottenham’s focus back toward wide attacking options. For United, the hope is that Spurs reigniting interest would spark competition and stop Chelsea from striking a bargain deal.

Chelsea Confident of Cut-Price Deal

Chelsea remain in pole position, with confidence that Garnacho will push for Stamford Bridge. GMS sources revealed, “Chelsea have been confident that they will end up acquiring Garnacho for as little as £30million due to his desire to head to Stamford Bridge and an awareness that he will not be reintegrated into Amorim’s plans after a complete breakdown in relations.”

This scenario would be a significant financial blow for United, who are desperate to extract maximum value from one of their most talented young assets. Key figures at the club believe Spurs’ involvement could raise the price, potentially triggering a bidding war before the September deadline.

Wider Context of United’s Transfer Activity

Garnacho is not the only high-profile name set for an exit. Jadon Sancho, who recently rejected a move to Roma, is also on the list of players encouraged to find new challenges. Furthermore, “GMS sources recently revealed that Hojlund has accepted that he needs to leave the Red Devils in order to get his career back on track, leading to Serie A being pinpointed as his preferred destination.”

With United eager to streamline the squad and raise funds for future investment, Garnacho’s situation is pivotal. The next few days could shape both his future and the club’s financial outlook.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Manchester United fans, this news is bittersweet. Garnacho is a player with raw talent and explosive ability, someone many supporters hoped would be part of the club’s rebuild. Seeing him leave so soon feels like a failure in squad planning and man-management.

However, the reality is clear. If Garnacho has no role under Amorim and relations have collapsed, holding on serves no purpose. What matters now is securing fair value. The reported £30m figure is unacceptable for a player of his age, ability, and market potential. This is why Tottenham’s involvement is crucial. Spurs could drive the price higher and protect United from a financial misstep.

The frustration among fans will also extend to the wider transfer approach. Allowing two promising wide players, Garnacho and Sancho, to depart in the same window without ready-made replacements would raise concerns. Supporters will want assurances that any funds raised will be reinvested intelligently, not wasted as in previous years.

United need decisive action now. If Garnacho is to leave, let it be on the club’s terms, not at a cut-price that strengthens a direct rival.

Tottenham Step Up Chase for Nathan Collins

Caught Offside have reported that Tottenham are intensifying their efforts to sign Brentford captain Nathan Collins as Thomas Frank looks to add depth to his defence. The Republic of Ireland international has become one of the most sought-after defenders in the Premier League, with several top clubs monitoring his situation.

According to the report, “Collins is now attracting interest from Tottenham, Liverpool and Man United, and Spurs are now upping their efforts to lure the Republic of Ireland international to north London.”

Brentford’s Reluctance and Collins’ Value

Collins is under contract with Brentford until 2029, which complicates negotiations and places Brentford in a strong position. The Bees are reluctant to lose another key figure after an unsettled summer. Thomas Frank departed to take charge of Tottenham, Bryan Mbeumo joined Manchester United and Christian Norgaard completed a move to Arsenal.

For Brentford, losing their captain would be another blow. Yet for Spurs, Collins’ leadership, aerial strength and composure on the ball make him an ideal fit for Frank’s system. At just 24 years of age, he also offers the long-term stability Tottenham’s backline has lacked in recent years.

Competition From Liverpool and Manchester United

While Tottenham lead the race, other major clubs remain interested. Liverpool have the financial muscle to compete, particularly after generating significant funds through the sales of Darwin Nunez, Luis Diaz and Caoimhin Kelleher. The Reds are assessing their defensive options, and while Collins is admired, Marc Guehi has been highlighted by some sources as a stronger priority.

Manchester United are also in the mix, but their financial position means sales will be necessary before they can launch a serious bid. That could leave them trailing Spurs and Liverpool in the pursuit, with Old Trafford officials facing an uphill task to reshape their squad while adhering to spending restrictions.

Tottenham’s Transfer Ambition

Tottenham’s focus on Collins comes as they edge closer to completing the signing of Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace. Adding both Eze and Collins, on top of Mohammed Kudus, Mathys Tel and Kevin Danso, would represent a transfer window that significantly strengthens multiple areas of the squad.

Frank is mindful of the added demands of Champions League football and Collins appears to be seen as the kind of reinforcement who can help Spurs meet those challenges. Contacts between Spurs and Brentford are expected soon, with Frank eager to work again with his former player as part of Tottenham’s wider project.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Tottenham supporters, this update will be met with excitement. Nathan Collins is the type of defender who ticks the boxes Spurs have needed to fill for years. Strong in the air, composed on the ball and young enough to grow with the squad, he feels like a natural addition to a team now back in Europe’s top competition.

The knowledge that Liverpool and Manchester United are also circling makes this even more appealing. Spurs moving quickly and showing conviction in their pursuit will be seen as evidence that the club is learning from past transfer windows, when hesitation often proved costly.

There will, however, be caution over Brentford’s asking price. With Collins contracted until 2029, Spurs will likely need to commit to a sizeable fee, which could limit flexibility in other areas. Fans may also wonder whether prioritising Eze first risks delaying progress on Collins, especially with rival clubs watching.

Still, the prospect of adding both Eze and Collins in the same window is an enticing one. For supporters who have endured periods of inconsistency and near misses, this feels like a moment where Tottenham can decisively build a squad capable of competing at the very top.

Spurs Secure Cristian Romero for the Long Term

Tottenham have made their most significant move of the summer – not with a new arrival, but by tying Cristian Romero to a fresh four-year contract. In doing so, Spurs have not only secured one of the best defenders in the world but also reaffirmed the foundations of their current project.

Romero’s Commitment to Spurs

For weeks, uncertainty hovered around Romero’s future. Atletico Madrid were circling, and the defender himself admitted earlier this year: “LaLiga is the one [league] left to play in. I would love to, to tell you the truth. I would love to play there because it’s the league I’m missing.”

Yet instead of following that temptation, Romero has signed a deal running until 2029, committing his prime years to north London. He is now set to lead Spurs not only as a player of extraordinary talent but also as the newly-appointed captain, having replaced Heung-min Son earlier this month.

“I’m very happy here in the club,” Romero said after the announcement. “For me, this club is the best in the world. My message to the fans is thank you for your amazing support every day and every match. For me, and it’s important also for the team.”

From Volatile Talent to Leader

Romero’s Spurs career has not always been smooth. His early years were marked by rash tackles and moments of ill-discipline. But under Ange Postecoglou and now Thomas Frank, responsibility has reshaped him. First as vice-captain and now as captain, the Argentine has grown into a figure of calm authority, without losing his trademark aggression when stepping out of defence.

That blend of composure and fire has already translated into silverware. Last season, Romero captained Spurs to Europa League glory, earning player of the match in the final. He followed that with a commanding display in the UEFA Super Cup, even scoring despite the eventual defeat.

A Symbol of Spurs’ Ambition

In many ways, Romero’s renewal is as decisive as any big-money signing. Spurs are building around a player who has already proven himself on the international stage with Argentina and now carries the responsibility of shaping Tottenham’s next era.

“I love football, I love this club,” Romero reflected. “We want to win. Maybe, why not again this season? Another trophy with the club is important for everyone.”

For Spurs supporters, that ambition feels less like wishful thinking and more like a plan anchored by their captain. With Romero secured, Tottenham’s future suddenly looks more certain – and far more exciting.

Tottenham Hotspur Weigh Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche as Savinho Deal Stalls

Tottenham Hotspur’s summer recruitment drive has taken another intriguing twist with reports that the club are turning their attention towards AS Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche. According to The Independent, the French playmaker is emerging as a realistic alternative to Manchester City’s Savinho, whose valuation has left Spurs reconsidering their options.

Rising Cost of Savinho Deal

Manchester City’s Savinho was initially among Tottenham’s top targets, but the financial outlay required has proven prohibitive. City value the 21-year-old at around £70 million, a figure Spurs are reluctant to match. The Independent reported: “City would want £70m to let Savinho go, a figure Spurs are unwilling to match, leaving the Londoners searching for cheaper options.”

The Brazilian winger remains highly thought of by Pep Guardiola, despite modest numbers last season. He produced one goal and eight assists in 29 Premier League appearances. Guardiola reflected after City’s 4-0 win at Wolves: “I don’t know,” Guardiola said when asked if Savinho would stay. “Tottenham in that case or any other club who wants a player should call the club.”

Guardiola went further, highlighting Savinho’s potential, saying: “At 21 years old, with the potential he has, he plays a lot of minutes. He has to improve in the final decisions but he is an extraordinary player.”

Akliouche Emerges as an Alternative

That reluctance to overspend has prompted Spurs to look towards Akliouche, a 23-year-old forward who enjoyed a breakout campaign with Monaco. Last season he netted seven goals across competitions and made an immediate impact in the current campaign, scoring in Monaco’s 3-1 victory over Le Havre.

As The Independent highlighted, “Akliouche, 23, has now emerged as a viable alternative, having impressed for the Ligue 1 giants last term with seven goals in all competitions.” Monaco are not willing to let him go easily either, with their valuation understood to be around €55m (£47.5m).

What This Means for Tottenham’s Strategy

Thomas Frank and the Spurs recruitment team continue to build a forward line capable of competing across domestic and European fronts. With Eberechi Eze of Crystal Palace also on their list, Spurs appear to be prioritising creative, ball-progressing attackers who can ease the burden on James Maddison and Son Heung-min.

The message is clear. Spurs are unwilling to overspend but remain determined to invest in emerging attacking talent. Akliouche fits that profile, offering technical quality, youth, and the versatility required to thrive in the Premier League.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As Tottenham supporters, this is the type of news that sparks real excitement. Thomas Frank has already shown he is not afraid to be bold with selections and tactics, and now the club’s transfer approach reflects that same ambition.

Many fans would have admired Savinho’s talent, but paying £70m for a player with one Premier League goal last season feels excessive. Akliouche, however, offers value and potential in a way that suits the new Spurs model. His ability to play across the attacking line and contribute goals makes him an attractive option.

The fact that Monaco want around £47.5m makes this deal significantly more realistic, while still signalling intent from Tottenham. Add Eberechi Eze into the mix and suddenly Spurs could have an attacking trio behind the striker that rivals any in England for creativity and unpredictability.

There is also a wider sense of optimism around the squad under Frank. Supporters are buying into his methods, and the recruitment of young, hungry players is only fuelling that connection. If Akliouche does arrive, he has the qualities to become a fan favourite quickly. Pace, flair and end product are the traits Spurs fans have long cherished, and he appears to tick all those boxes.

For a club that has often been criticised for hesitating in the transfer market, this proactive pursuit of alternatives shows lessons have been learned. Savinho might remain a dream for the future, but Akliouche represents a smart, achievable step in the present.

Tottenham Push Ahead in Pursuit of Eberechi Eze

Tottenham Hotspur’s pursuit of Eberechi Eze is gathering momentum, though the transfer remains delicately poised after protracted talks with Crystal Palace. The FA Cup holders have proposed a deal worth £55 million plus add-ons, but discussions over payment structure continue to delay an agreement.

Negotiations Take New Turns

The Independent reports, talks between the two clubs resumed on Monday afternoon, . While no compromise has yet been reached, there is growing optimism that a deal will be completed once the finer details are settled. The sticking point remains how the total sum will be paid, with Palace insistent on receiving a larger portion of the fee up front to secure a replacement.

Eze’s involvement in Palace’s 0-0 draw with Chelsea demonstrated the uncertainty of the situation. He even had a free-kick ruled out, underlining how his focus remains intact despite speculation. “As much as I know, Eze has a contract with Crystal Palace, he’s a Crystal Palace player and he showed it today,” said Oliver Glasner.

Arsenal Monitoring the Situation

Tottenham are not alone in their admiration for the midfielder. Arsenal are reportedly keen on Eze, who famously scored the winning goal in Palace’s FA Cup triumph over Manchester City last May. His expired £68 million release clause has added further intrigue, leaving rival clubs circling as negotiations drag on.

Glasner’s Clear Message

Palace’s manager was direct after the stalemate at Stamford Bridge. “As long as he is a Palace player and performs like this he will play for us. Nobody has told me something else.” His words suggest Palace will not allow Eze to leave until their conditions are met, a stance that makes sense given his influence and the timing of the window.

The outcome will hinge on Tottenham’s willingness to meet Palace’s financial demands. With Arsenal lurking, Spurs know they must act decisively to secure a player who could transform their midfield creativity.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Tottenham fans will be excited but also nervous about this transfer saga. Eze is exactly the kind of player who could elevate Spurs’ attacking play, offering flair, vision and goals from midfield. Yet the drawn-out negotiations highlight a familiar concern among supporters about the club’s ability to close deals quickly.

Crystal Palace fans, on the other hand, will feel concerned and disappointed. Eze is the heartbeat of their team and his FA Cup heroics last May cemented his status as a club icon. Losing him now without a ready-made replacement could derail their season before it even takes shape.

Arsenal’s reported interest only adds to the tension. For Tottenham supporters, the thought of missing out on Eze to their North London rivals would be galling. For Palace, the priority is clear: secure a big fee and reinvest wisely.

The coming days will be decisive. If Spurs meet Palace’s upfront demands, they will land a game-changing midfielder. If not, the saga could drag until late in the window, leaving all parties in a state of uncertainty. Fans across both clubs are watching closely, expectant and impatient for resolution.

Tottenham Closing In On Eberechi Eze Transfer

Tottenham Hotspur are on the brink of completing a significant move in the market with Eberechi Eze edging closer to a switch from Crystal Palace. As reported by Give Me Sport, Spurs are confident of striking an agreement that would see the England international become the latest addition under Thomas Frank’s management in a deal worth in the region of £68million.

Eze Deal Progressing Rapidly

Sources told Give Me Sport that “an agreement is nearly done in principle” despite Oliver Glasner’s insistence that the midfielder will feature for Palace in their upcoming Conference League clash against Fredrikstad. The attacker, who began Palace’s Premier League campaign in the goalless draw with Chelsea, is understood to have already agreed personal terms with Spurs.

Eze has privately expressed his desire to move across London and seize the chance to play Champions League football. Having lifted the FA Cup last season, he feels ready to take on a fresh challenge at the highest level. The prospect of cementing his place in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the 2026 World Cup is also said to be a major motivation.

Spurs Searching For Attacking Spark

Tottenham’s push for Eze comes shortly after Heung-min Son departed for Los Angeles FC in a deal worth more than £20 million. The South Korean icon’s exit has left a void in Frank’s frontline, and Eze is being targeted to fill that creative gap. While predominantly a No.10, his ability to play wide is seen as a crucial factor for squad balance.

Jamie Carragher labelled him a “superstar” on Sky Sports, and Spurs believe he has the technical quality to make an instant impact in north London. For a side competing domestically and in Europe, his versatility could prove invaluable.

Levy Confident In Negotiations

Daniel Levy is not expected to face issues in finalising the deal, according to Give Me Sport. Eze’s current contract at Selhurst Park is worth £100,000 per week, and Palace had initially resisted offers below his release clause. With that clause now expired, Palace are bracing for his departure and already exploring replacements. Leicester City’s Bilal El Khannouss and Christos Tzolis have been identified as potential options.

Should the deal be completed, the 27-year-old could be unveiled in time for Spurs’ clash with Manchester City at the weekend. For Frank, who has been keen to reinforce his squad following an encouraging pre-season, this move would represent a statement signing.

Why Eze Fits Spurs Perfectly

Eze brings flair, composure and creativity, attributes that Tottenham supporters have been eager to see injected into their team. His eye for space between midfield and defence will suit Frank’s dynamic style of play, while his willingness to take risks on the ball aligns with Spurs’ attacking philosophy.

As Give Me Sport highlighted, Eze has made it clear that he wants to complete this switch, and with Spurs moving swiftly behind the scenes, the transfer could be announced within days.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Tottenham fan’s perspective, this feels like the kind of signing that changes the atmosphere around the club. Eberechi Eze is not only technically gifted, he also has that swagger supporters love in a creative midfielder. Watching him at Palace, the way he glides past players and finds pockets of space always suggested he was destined for the big stage.

Thomas Frank’s arrival has already brought excitement, but this move would show ambition. Losing Son hurt, no question, yet bringing in a 27-year-old England international in his prime more than softens the blow. The idea of Eze linking up with Maddison, Kulusevski and Richarlison is mouth-watering. Spurs fans have been calling for depth and quality, and this is exactly that.

The Champions League nights at the new stadium will need players who can rise to the occasion. Eze, who Jamie Carragher called a “superstar”, looks like one of those. There is a real feeling that with Frank steering the team, and Levy managing to secure this deal, Spurs could be on the cusp of something special.

If Palace secure replacements quickly, then all parties move on. But for Spurs fans, this signing could be the moment we look back on and say, that was when Frank’s project truly started to take off.

Djed Spence Commits Future With New Tottenham Hotspur Contract

Tottenham Hotspur have confirmed that Djed Spence has signed a new long-term contract with the club, further strengthening his position in the squad under recently appointed head coach Thomas Frank.

Rising Influence Under Thomas Frank

Spence, 25, has quickly become a key figure in Frank’s plans. His standout display in Saturday’s Premier League opener against Burnley, where he completed the full 90 minutes at left-back in a convincing 3-0 victory, underlined his importance. That came on the back of an assured performance in the UEFA Super Cup final, which played a major role in convincing the hierarchy to reward him with improved terms.

Previous Deal and Fresh Commitment

The defender’s progress has been steady since joining Spurs. Last season he featured 35 times and showed growing maturity in his game. In October he signed a four-year deal, yet such has been his development and impact that Tottenham Hotspur have moved decisively to secure his future again.

Strong Platform for Future Success

With Thomas Frank now shaping the squad in his image, Spence’s versatility and defensive qualities look set to be vital. His ability to adapt to different roles across the back line has provided the team with balance and tactical flexibility. Supporters will view this new contract as evidence of both the club’s commitment to building stability and the player’s determination to continue his upward trajectory at Tottenham Hotspur.

Focus Turns to Season Ahead

Attention will now shift to how Spence and his teammates can build on the positive start to the new campaign. With a long-term agreement now in place, the defender can focus fully on delivering consistent performances. Tottenham Hotspur’s ambitions for domestic and European success will undoubtedly benefit from having a motivated and established Djed Spence at the heart of their defensive unit.

Rico Lewis Outlines Manchester City Commitment amid Tottenham Hotspur Links

Manchester City defender Rico Lewis has addressed recent speculation linking him with Tottenham Hotspur and several other clubs. The 20-year-old, who has already earned five England caps, has underlined his commitment to his boyhood side despite growing transfer interest.

Having progressed through City’s academy, Lewis has become a trusted figure in Pep Guardiola’s squad. Last season he was deployed at right-back, left-back and in defensive midfield, making 44 appearances in all competitions. He contributed two goals and five assists, showcasing both versatility and composure beyond his years.

Tottenham Interest and Rival Suitors

Reports last week suggested Tottenham had been contacted by intermediaries regarding Lewis, with the north London club exploring the possibility of strengthening Thomas Frank’s defensive options. Aston Villa, Brighton, Everton and Nottingham Forest are also monitoring the situation, while Juventus, Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid are understood to have registered their interest from abroad.

According to CaughtOffSide, Nottingham Forest even saw an approach turned down, while Tottenham have made their interest clear. However, Lewis has moved to shut down speculation, telling The Daily Mail after Manchester City’s 4-0 win at Wolves:

“I’ve never ever seen myself at a different club – I’ve always wanted to play for City.

It’s my dream club, and like you see (at Wolves), when I’m playing with the kind of players that I’m playing with, it brings out the best in me, so I’m so happy.”

Player Determined to Seize Opportunity

Lewis accepts competition for places at Manchester City remains fierce but is determined to make his presence felt again this season.

“It’s difficult. Everyone wants assurance and security, but at the end of the day, it’s on me. It’s on me to perform. It’s on me to take the chances when I do.

After that, there’s nothing I can’t blame myself (for). If I take my own chances, I do it. If I don’t, then I have to work and get better.

Last season I played more than the season before, this season I want to play more than last season, so it’s always the same goal – becoming an established player.”

Tottenham Turn to Savinho Pursuit

While a move for Lewis appears unlikely, Tottenham Hotspur remain active in the market. Spurs have already opened talks with Crystal Palace for Eberechi Eze and continue to press for Brazilian winger Savinho. Their opening £60m bid was rejected, with Manchester City demanding at least £65m before sanctioning a deal.

With Son Heung-min joining Los Angeles FC and James Maddison sidelined long-term, Frank is eager to reinforce his squad before the window closes on 1 September. Following their 3-0 victory over Burnley on the opening weekend, Tottenham aim to build momentum, though much depends on their ability to finalise attacking reinforcements.

Tottenham vs Burnley Preview: Solanke Fitness Call Looms

Tottenham open their Premier League campaign against Burnley with Thomas Frank weighing up whether Dominic Solanke is fit enough to lead the line. Spurs return to domestic action still carrying the sting of their midweek exit to Paris Saint-Germain, when a 2-0 lead evaporated before a penalty shootout defeat.

Richarlison Stakes His Claim

Richarlison impressed in Udine, holding the ball up with strength and graft while pressing tirelessly. His manager labelled his showing against PSG as “really phenomenal”, words that underline why he could again be central to Spurs’ attack. Solanke, who made his comeback from the bench after an ankle injury that had sidelined him since the first pre-season match against Reading, may be eased in more carefully.

Bissouma Returns, Udogie Sidelined

Yves Bissouma is back in contention after missing the Super Cup for disciplinary reasons, a timely boost in midfield. However, Destiny Udogie remains unavailable with a knee problem. “Destiny is progressing, but it’s too early for him to be involved in the squad,” Frank confirmed in his press briefing. Spurs are otherwise free of fresh injury concerns following the PSG encounter.

Tactical Decisions Ahead

Frank used a back-three in Europe but is expected to revert to a 4-2-3-1 system against Burnley, giving Spurs greater control in possession. That tactical switch could see Kevin Danso drop out, making room for an additional wide threat. Mathys Tel, who missed a penalty in Udine, may find himself behind Wilson Odobert or Brennan Johnson in the pecking order.

Pape Matar Sarr looks set to continue in an advanced midfield role, with James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski both ruled out for extended periods. Burnley will need to prepare for a Tottenham side looking sharp in attack despite midweek disappointment.

Predicted Tottenham XI (4-2-3-1)

Vicario, Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Spence, Palhinha, Bentancur, Kudus, Sarr, Odobert, Richarlison

Injured: Dragusin, Udogie, Takai, Maddison, Kulusevski

Tottenham Hotspur Face Injury Setbacks Ahead of Premier League Opener

Tottenham Hotspur are preparing to begin their 2025-26 Premier League season under Thomas Frank, yet several key players are battling injuries. Supporters will be eager to know the latest on James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski and others as Spurs aim to hit the ground running.

James Maddison Suffers Major Blow

Tottenham Hotspur’s plans have been disrupted by a serious injury to James Maddison. The midfielder ruptured his ACL in last week’s pre-season friendly against Newcastle, forcing him to undergo surgery.

A club statement confirmed, “His surgery will take place in the coming days and, following that, James will then begin his rehabilitation with our medical team. Everyone at Tottenham Hotspur wishes James a full and speedy recovery. We will be supporting him every step of the way.”

The timing is especially damaging given Maddison’s influence in midfield. No exact return date has been confirmed, but he is expected to be sidelined until April 2026.

Dejan Kulusevski’s Long Road Back

Dejan Kulusevski remains unavailable after undergoing surgery on his patella in May. Thomas Frank offered an early update in July, saying, “I don’t like to put a timeline on it [but] put it this way: he’s not ready for the first game of the season.”

The Swedish international has shown signs of progress, recently posting a social media clip juggling a football with the caption, “First time since May.” However, Frank has made it clear that his return is still some way off, with late 2025 a realistic target.

Given his creativity and work rate, Kulusevski’s absence is a significant challenge for Spurs, particularly in matches requiring a breakthrough against deep defensive lines.

Destiny Udogie Close to Group Training

Destiny Udogie has been nursing a knee injury picked up last month, which saw him miss Tottenham’s pre-season tour of Asia. Speaking before the Super Cup, Frank said, “Destiny is closer and getting closer to train with the group.” While his return date remains unclear, there is optimism he could rejoin full training soon.

Other Squad Concerns

Radu Dragusin is continuing his recovery from an ACL injury suffered in January. “I had to learn how to walk again… I can’t wait to be back with the boys,” he explained, underlining his determination to return before the end of the year.

Summer signing Kota Takai is sidelined with a plantar fascia injury, while Manor Solomon’s pre-season was wiped out by another fitness setback. Bryan Gil, recovering from knee ligament surgery, is also yet to rejoin the squad.

With the season about to begin, Thomas Frank must navigate these absences while integrating new arrivals and ensuring Tottenham Hotspur remain competitive. The return of James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski later in the campaign could be pivotal in determining the club’s fortunes.