EPL Index

Tottenham Hotspur Injury Picture Ahead of Crucial Winter Run

Tottenham Hotspur move into a decisive stretch of the season with Thomas Frank juggling key absences that continue to shape his squad. As Spurs prepare for Newcastle at St James’ Park, the broader fitness landscape tells a story of frustration, delayed progress and cautious optimism. With the Premier League table tightening, the manager’s ability to reintegrate sidelined players like Dominic Solanke and Dejan Kulusevski could define their momentum heading into the new year.

Solanke’s Struggle for Rhythm

Dominic Solanke arrived in north London looking like a forward built for Frank’s structured, possession driven system, only to see his start curtailed by an ankle injury in pre-season. His early cameo outings against Paris Saint Germain, Burnley and Manchester City hinted at a useful fit but the setback that followed has proven far more serious than first believed.

Solanke admitted the emotional and physical toll of the layoff, explaining, “It’s been very difficult,” and adding, “At first, I didn’t think I would be out for too long but we didn’t really understand the extent of the injury. I was trying to get back as quickly as I could but it didn’t happen, so I had to have surgery.” Frank had already acknowledged before the international break that he did not know whether the striker would be available again before the end of the year. With no firm comeback date, Spurs are forced into a continued reliance on makeshift attacking plans.

Kulusevski Nearing a Return

Dejan Kulusevski has been one of the most significant long term absences, particularly given his influence in stretching play and linking midfield to attack. After suffering a patella injury and undergoing surgery following last season’s Europa League final, he has finally stepped back onto the grass during the international break. Frank has been cautiously upbeat, saying there is a “good chance” the winger could feature before the turn of the year.

The timing matters. Spurs have lacked penetration and fluency in wide areas and the Swede’s return would provide the dynamism that has been missing. With late December looking realistic, his reintegration could help unlock more control in games that have recently slipped away from them.

Defensive Reinforcements on the Horizon

Radu Dragusin’s slow and patient rehabilitation from an ACL injury has begun to show promising signs. After taking minutes in the recent Orient fixture, he said, “It felt good, first minutes in 10 months out, finally minutes in the legs and I just have to build on this.” Although he was absent from the squads against Arsenal, Paris Saint Germain and Fulham, there is growing confidence he will make the matchday group soon, possibly for the Brentford fixture on December 6.

Kota Takai remains further behind. The young defender has yet to debut since joining from Kawasaki Frontale, with Frank noting before the Chelsea match that he would “be training soon.” That optimism has not yet translated into selection.

Midfield Concerns Continue

Yves Bissouma’s ankle ligament damage required surgery and leaves Tottenham Hotspur light in midfield balance at a time when Frank would prefer stability. With James Maddison also sidelined following ACL surgery sustained against Newcastle in pre-season, Spurs must navigate one of the toughest phases of the campaign without two central influencers. Maddison’s expected timeline stretches into summer 2026, placing greater responsibility on the remaining creative core.

Tottenham’s £60m January Call on Richarlison Signals Shift in Squad Planning

Tottenham’s preparations for the January window have taken a decisive step, with fresh reporting indicating that the club are ready to cash in on Richarlison despite his status as the team’s current top scorer. The original SpursWeb piece highlights the tension at the heart of this story, that balance between productivity and suitability. It is a storyline that often shapes elite clubs and the futures of their forwards.

Growing Pressure on the Forward Line

This season has seen Spurs use several players through the middle. Thomas Frank has rotated Richarlison, Dominic Solanke, Mathys Tel and Randal Kolo Muani in a search for a reliable focal point. Yet Richarlison’s numbers remain respectable. He has six goals in all competitions and continues to deliver when asked. Journalist Pete O’Rourke summed this up cleanly in his comments, saying: “He’s doing the best he can right now, Richarlison, to try and score goals for Tottenham.”

Even so, the mood around the club suggests that Frank is planning a different type of centre forward for the long term.

Push for an Out and Out Number Nine

The heart of O’Rourke’s argument, as cited by SpursWeb, is Tottenham’s preference for a more traditional striker. He added: “Tottenham’s top goalscorer this season, six goals and two assists in 21 appearances in all competitions but, I still don’t think he is probably the answer to Tottenham’s issues.” His stance is grounded in tactical identity rather than emotion. Richarlison can operate wide, he can press, he can battle, but he is not being viewed as the ideal solution for Frank’s structure.

An additional quote from the reporting further underlined this strategic push: “I think Tottenham would prefer an out and out number nine to be playing as their main striker in the team.”

The absence of Solanke has also influenced thinking. Injuries have restricted him to minimal involvement and Spurs have lacked the physical reference point they hoped he would become.

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Tottenham supporters will read this situation with mixed emotions because Richarlison divides opinion more than most forwards the club have had in recent seasons. His energy, his commitment and his instinct to scrap for every loose ball make him a favourite for some, but others feel that his technical profile limits the fluidity Spurs can reach when facing deep defensive blocks.

Fans will recognise the truth in O’Rourke’s comment that he is probably better suited as a wide forward. That role lets him drive inside, take on defenders and attack the box from unpredictable angles. When he plays as the main striker, supporters often notice his heavy first touch in crowded spaces and the difficulty he sometimes has in linking play with midfielders. Those moments feed the growing belief that Tottenham need a cleaner finisher and a more composed No. 9.

The mention of Dominic Solanke’s absence will also hit home. Many fans had high hopes for him after his arrival but injuries have meant frequent reshuffles in attack. Tottenham’s structure under Frank thrives on patterns, rehearsed movements and a stable set of roles. Constant change in the middle disrupts rhythm and supporters understand that deeply.

Whatever happens, January feels pivotal. Fans are ready for clarity and ready for the club to make the attacking identity sharper than it has been over the past few months.

Tottenham XI vs Fulham: Predicted Lineup and Match Preview

Spurs Adjust for Romero Absence

Tottenham enter tonight’s Premier League meeting with Fulham facing another test of depth and resilience. The absence of captain Cristian Romero, suspended after collecting his fifth league booking during last weekend’s derby against Arsenal, forces a reshuffle at the heart of the defence. His yellow card for dissent leaves a space that Kevin Danso is expected to fill, and Spurs will be determined to secure their first home league victory since the opening weekend.

This matchup arrives at a crucial time for the club’s season rhythm. Without their defensive organiser, the emphasis shifts to structure, discipline and progression through midfield. That is where tonight’s storyline becomes particularly intriguing.

Gray Pushes for Rare League Start

Manager Frank has been weighing whether to bring additional ball playing qualities into his central structure. Archie Gray could be the beneficiary. The young midfielder impressed in midweek against Paris Saint Germain, displaying control in tight spaces and confidence against elite opposition. His hope is to translate that showing into a Premier League start, possibly lining up alongside Joao Palhinha, who was rested during the European fixture.

There is a sense that this could be one of those evenings where youthful energy and ambition shape Tottenham’s midfield identity. If Frank opts for a more dynamic pivot, Gray fits the requirement.

Forward Options Competing for Selection

There is also growing anticipation around changes in the attacking third. Mohammed Kudus, Xavi Simons and Wilson Odobert all began on the bench against Paris Saint Germain but will expect to be in contention to start tonight. Their quality has offered Tottenham depth that many Premier League squads envy, and Frank may be tempted to refresh the forward line for Fulham’s visit.

The system could dictate the selection. If Frank moves away from the 4-2-2-2 shape used in Paris, at least one of Lucas Bergvall or Pape Matar Sarr is likely to miss out. That tactical decision will influence how Spurs build pressure and how they stretch Fulham’s defensive block.

In attack, Randal Kolo Muani and Richarlison were outstanding in the Champions League, scoring three goals between them. Kolo Muani has shown sharper form and a more complete attacking threat. Frank has already confirmed the forward is fit to start, increasing the likelihood that he leads the line at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Predicted Tottenham XI vs Fulham

With adjustments across the back line, midfield and forward positions, Tottenham’s predicted XI carries a fresh, purposeful feel. Frank’s challenge will be ensuring balance around new combinations.

Predicted Tottenham XI, 4-2-3-1: Vicario, Porro, Danso, Van de Ven, Udogie, Palhinha, Gray, Kudus, Simons, Odobert, Kolo Muani

Injured: Bissouma, Maddison, Kulusevski, Solanke

Suspended: Romero

Time and date: 8pm GMT on Saturday November 29, 2025

Venue: Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London

Tottenham’s meeting with Fulham may not define their season, but it offers an early opportunity to show they can adapt, rotate and still control games. With young talent stepping forward and experienced attackers in form, the home side will expect to deliver a performance shaped by energy, precision and purpose.

Spurs Push Ahead in Pursuit of €90m Forward

There is a sense of urgency building around Spurs and their search for a more ruthless edge in attack. The latest development, as outlined by Caught Offside, places the North London club at the front of a growing queue for Porto striker Samu Aghehowa. The 21-year-old has emerged as one of Europe’s most prolific young forwards, scoring 36 goals in 60 appearances, numbers that naturally attract interest from clubs looking to elevate their attacking threat.

Rising Demand for a Proven Finisher

Reports highlight how Chelsea had previously attempted to snap up Aghehowa before his move to Portugal, with their interest continuing quietly in the background. Newcastle were also named by sources, although their stance is felt to have softened after signing Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa.

The real competition now appears to come from Spurs and Arsenal. For Spurs, the need is clear. Recent signings like Mathys Tel and Randal Kolo Muani have struggled to influence games consistently, while Dominic Solanke has suffered with injury setbacks. One source in the original report described Porto as “firm” on the €100m release clause, although another suggested that €90m might be enough to start formal negotiations.

Arsenal Monitor as Options Narrow

Arsenal are also in the picture, weighing Aghehowa as part of a broader shortlist that includes Serhou Guirassy and Jean-Philippe Mateta. Their concerns revolve around the recurring fitness issues that have affected Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz. Aghehowa’s profile, both in terms of physicality and his knack for efficient finishing, offers a different type of focal point.

Value and Vision in a Crowded Market

For all the financial complexity, it is clear why Porto maintain a hard line. Young forwards producing consistently at this level rarely move cheaply. As one source put it, “he has performed at such a young age that Porto naturally expect a premium”.

If Spurs are truly intent on redefining their attacking identity, this is the calibre of signing that does more than spark excitement. It sets a new benchmark.

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This story has the mixture of anticipation and trepidation that often surrounds high-level recruitment. The idea of pushing ahead of Arsenal, Chelsea and Newcastle in a major transfer pursuit appeals massively to the Spurs faithful. Aghehowa’s numbers speak for themselves, and supporters have watched long enough to know that 36 goals in 60 matches at Porto is not an inflated statistic. It is the pattern of someone who understands movement, timing and finishing at a level far beyond his years.

Fans will look at the current squad and feel this is exactly the type of signing needed to restore momentum. Performances have lacked a cutting edge, and while players like Mathys Tel show flashes, no one has established themselves as a constant threat across 90 minutes. Add the recurring fitness problems in attack and the need becomes even sharper.

There will be nerves about the price, of course. Spending €90m is not a decision supporters take lightly, especially given previous windows where money went towards players who struggled to adjust. Still, the modern market has shifted, and this feels like a moment where Spurs should act decisively rather than settle for secondary options.

More than anything, supporters will relish beating Arsenal to a transformative forward. That rivalry shapes so much of the mood around the club, and securing a player of Aghehowa’s potential would feel like taking a significant step in the right direction. It signals ambition, intent and most importantly belief that Spurs can build towards competing at the highest level again.

Spurs Face Tactical Crossroads Ahead of Champions League Test

Spurs approach their meeting with PSG in the Champions League with a sense of unease rather than anticipation. The fallout from a bruising derby defeat has reshaped the mood around the club, and the focus now turns to Thomas Frank’s decisions as he navigates a contest that could define the tone of their European campaign.

The manager must weigh the consequences of his recent tactical choices. His use of a back-five against Arsenal was only the second time he had deployed that structure this season. The first outing worked well, in the UEFA Super Cup against PSG in August, but repeating it in the derby brought a damaging 4-1 loss that raised urgent questions. Frank pushed back against criticism, insisting that the issue stemmed from failure in duels rather than the formation itself, yet the complications remain.

Formation Options Shape Predicted Lineup

Another subdued display in a back-five risks amplifying the pressure, which is why a return to the 4-2-3-1 system appears more probable. It offers rhythm, passing lanes and a clearer attacking identity. Pedro Porro seems likely to rejoin the starting eleven after beginning on the bench at the weekend, while Pape Matar Sarr could provide much-needed energy in midfield.

Randal Kolo Muani, eligible to face his parent club, will hope to lead the line. Richarlison’s spectacular goal in the derby has offered him a claim, but the balance of the squad points towards a central role for Kolo Muani. Simons, who has been named on the bench in both previous away Champions League fixtures, may shift into the left-sided role if Frank prioritises extra midfield presence.

Unavailable Players Influence Selection

Spurs remain without Brennan Johnson following his red card against Copenhagen. Mathys Tel, Radu Dragusin, Ben Davies and Kota Takai are also absent, having been excluded from the Champions League squad for the league phase. Long-term injuries affect Bissouma, Maddison, Kulusevski and Solanke, further tightening Frank’s options.

Predicted Spurs Lineup

Predicted Tottenham XI, 4-2-3-1: Vicario, Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Spence, Palhinha, Bentancur, Kudus, Sarr, Simons, Kolo Muani.

Time and date: 8pm GMT on Wednesday November 26, 2025

Venue: Parc des Princes, Paris

Spurs require clarity, assertiveness and a coherent structure if they are to emerge from Paris with both composure and momentum restored. The predicted lineup reflects not only necessity but the unmistakable need for renewal.

Tottenham Injury Update as North London Derby Looms

Tottenham Hotspur enter the international break with more than a few fitness concerns. Thomas Frank’s side were held to a 2-2 draw against Manchester United, a result that leaves supporters both encouraged and frustrated. With a trip to Arsenal and a clash with Paris Saint-Germain on the horizon, the timing of these injuries could hardly be worse.

Kolo Muani’s Jaw Injury Causes Concern

Randal Kolo Muani was substituted at half-time during the draw with Manchester United after suffering a jaw injury. Thomas Frank initially downplayed the issue, calling it “nothing big”, but the on-loan Paris Saint-Germain forward has since withdrawn from France’s World Cup qualifiers.

The French Football Federation confirmed: “Randal Kolo Muani will miss the international break which begins this Monday. The Tottenham Hotspur striker suffered a lower jaw injury on Saturday against Manchester United. After consulting with Dr Franck Le Gall, who had previously spoken with his Tottenham counterpart, Didier Deschamps confirmed Randal Kolo Muani’s withdrawal.”

Although surgery is not required, early reports from France suggest the problem is “more serious than expected”. Initial fears of a two-month absence have eased, but there is no confirmed date for his return.

Potential return date: Unknown

Romero and Kudus Expected to Face Arsenal

Cristian Romero’s fitness remains under watch after he appeared to tire late against Manchester United, prompting his substitution for Kevin Danso. “Yeah, he was just done physically,” Frank explained. “He just came back from that injury. He’s fine.” The Argentine defender should be ready to feature when Spurs visit Arsenal on 23 November 2025.

Mohammed Kudus missed Tottenham’s Champions League win over Copenhagen and their following two matches with a minor knock. Frank clarified the reasoning: “The knock, just too short a turnaround. Keeping him out for Tuesday game and this game. Very confident that he should be available for the next one.”

Potential return date: 23 November 2025 vs Arsenal (A)

Bergvall and Dragusin Nearing Return

Lucas Bergvall suffered a concussion early in Tottenham’s 1-0 defeat to Chelsea after taking a ball to the face. Despite his pleas to continue, medical staff correctly removed him under concussion protocols. Frank later stated: “There was a concussion. He couldn’t stay on and I think the medical team did a good job in that instance.” The midfielder will be cleared to play after the break.

Potential return date: 23 November 2025 vs Arsenal (A)

Meanwhile, Radu Dragusin is closing in on a comeback after an ACL injury kept him out since January. Frank confirmed: “He’s fully integrated into training now… you need to build strength in the knee and so on. But he is definitely getting closer to being involved.” The Romanian could make his long-awaited return in the north London derby.

Potential return date: 23 November 2025 vs Arsenal (A)

Long-Term Absentees Continue Recovery

Ben Davies remains out with a hamstring injury sustained on international duty, with Frank estimating a “four or five week” recovery period. Dejan Kulusevski, Yves Bissouma, and James Maddison are all still sidelined. Maddison’s ACL injury may rule him out until summer 2026, while Bissouma and Kulusevski continue rehabilitation from ankle and knee problems respectively. Dominic Solanke and Kota Takai are nearing full fitness and could feature before December.

With the Arsenal clash fast approaching, Frank will hope the break allows key figures like Romero, Kudus, and Bergvall to recover. A positive injury update could prove decisive as Tottenham Hotspur look to reignite their push for a top-four finish against their fiercest rivals.

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal are hoping for a much-needed boost ahead of their Premier League showdown with Tottenham Hotspur at the Emirates Stadium on November 23. The Gunners have been dealing with several key absentees, but the international break could bring positive news as players edge closer to full fitness.

Gyökeres Recovery Remains Unclear

Viktor Gyökeres has been sidelined since sustaining a hamstring injury during Arsenal’s 2-0 win at Burnley on November 1. The £64 million summer signing has already missed the Champions League victory over Slavia Prague and the 1-1 draw at Sunderland.

He was omitted from the Sweden squad for their World Cup qualifiers, as Arsenal continue to assess the extent of his injury. “No news,” said Arteta before the Sunderland game. “We remain the same, nobody new that can join the squad. So, all the same.” His return date remains uncertain, with no timeline yet provided by the club’s medical staff.

Potential return date: Unknown

Calafiori and Havertz Eye Tottenham Hotspur Fixture

There was concern earlier this week when Riccardo Calafiori was seen training separately with Italy due to a hip issue. Arsenal were initially reluctant for him to travel, but his inclusion in the matchday squad to face Moldova suggests progress. The versatile defender could well be ready in time for the Tottenham Hotspur match at the Emirates.

Potential return date: November 23, 2025 vs Tottenham (H)

Meanwhile, Kai Havertz is nearing his return after knee surgery kept him out for nearly three months. The German international last featured on the opening weekend at Manchester United and has been a significant loss to Arsenal’s attacking depth.

“[It will be] a huge boost for the squad to have those players available again after such a long, long time,” said Arteta. “Really happy that I think it is going to be very soon. We need to get players back because we are missing seven players in the front line for the last two months.”

Potential return date: November 23, 2025 vs Tottenham (H)

Odegaard and Madueke Close to Return

Captain Martin Ødegaard has been out for a month due to a knee problem following a shoulder issue earlier in the season. The Norwegian was left out of international duty as he works towards fitness. Arteta remains cautiously optimistic. “Some of them, all of them I don’t know,” he said. “There are a lot of things that have to happen in the next two weeks, and everything has to be perfect, but I think we’ll be very close with most of them to be in a really strong position.”

Noni Madueke, signed for £48 million from Chelsea, has also been sidelined since picking up a knee injury against Manchester City on September 21. Scans ruled out an ACL tear, and he is expected to be part of Arsenal’s returning contingent after the break.

Potential return date: November 23, 2025 vs Tottenham (H)

Martinelli and Jesus Boost Expected

Gabriel Martinelli’s absence since the 2-0 win over Crystal Palace has been a frustration for Arteta. The Brazilian forward, left out of the national squad, is expected to feature once the Premier League resumes.

Gabriel Jesus is also nearing a return after a serious knee injury earlier this year. He is back in full training, though Arsenal are likely to take a cautious approach with his comeback.

Potential return date: Late 2025

As Arsenal prepare to host Tottenham Hotspur, Arteta will deliver his next detailed injury update before the derby. With several stars nearing fitness, the Gunners could soon be back to full strength for one of the most anticipated fixtures of the Premier League season.

Liverpool and Tottenham Set for Battle Over Bournemouth Star Antoine Semenyo

Liverpool are preparing to battle Tottenham Hotspur for Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, according to TeamTalk, as both Premier League giants look to strengthen their attacking lines ahead of the 2026 summer window.

Semenyo’s Stock on the Rise

The 25-year-old Ghanaian has been in electrifying form this season, scoring six goals and providing three assists in just 11 Premier League games. His performances have fuelled excitement at Anfield, where sources reveal he is “very keen” on a move to Liverpool. Arne Slot’s men are assessing attacking reinforcements, and Semenyo’s pace, power and versatility have placed him high on the shortlist.

Liverpool view him as a forward who could fit seamlessly into Slot’s pressing blueprint, able to operate wide or centrally. One insider told TeamTalk that he is seen as a “long-term investment to complement stars like Mo Salah and Alexander Isak, and potentially replace the former in the long-term.”

Semenyo’s upward trajectory has been clear since his 2024-25 campaign, when he tallied 11 goals and six assists, helping Bournemouth flirt with European qualification.

Tottenham’s Continued Admiration

Tottenham, under Thomas Frank, remain equally interested. They had scouted Semenyo heavily in the summer, but TeamTalk revealed that Spurs “balked at Bournemouth’s lofty valuation, which exceeded £70m.” Despite that, their admiration “persists,” and a renewed bid may arrive when financial room allows.

Spurs’ pursuit reflects Frank’s intention to add attacking depth behind his frontline. For them, Semenyo would represent a statement signing, combining Premier League readiness with potential resale value.

Bournemouth’s Stance

Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola is determined to keep his in-form forward. Club officials “remain resolute in retaining their talisman through January,” viewing him as “integral to their ambitions.” The Cherries, again pushing for a European place, will resist any offers mid-season.

However, as TeamTalk reports, the situation may change next summer. With Semenyo’s contract running until 2027, his valuation—estimated between £60m and £80m—could spark a fierce bidding war among elite clubs if his form continues.

From Bristol City to Premier League Stardom

Semenyo’s journey from Bristol City to top-flight stardom highlights his persistence and adaptability. His rise mirrors that of other late-blooming forwards who turned early promise into top-tier productivity. Bournemouth’s faith in him has paid off handsomely, yet it is clear that the player’s ambitions stretch toward elite European competition.

Liverpool, having already demonstrated their ability to develop dynamic forwards under Slot, see Semenyo as the kind of high-intensity, direct attacker who thrives in their system. Tottenham, meanwhile, view him as a transformative figure in their rebuild.

The next few months could define not only Semenyo’s career but also the direction of two Premier League powerhouses.

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Liverpool fans will find this report intriguing. Antoine Semenyo’s blend of power, pace and pressing discipline fits Arne Slot’s tactical identity perfectly. His ability to drift wide or play through the middle makes him a logical target for a club already considering life beyond Mo Salah.

Slot’s success in balancing experience with youthful aggression could make Anfield the ideal environment for Semenyo’s next step. His goal output at Bournemouth has proven he can produce against top opposition, and his relentless energy would enhance Liverpool’s front-line rotation with Isak, Díaz and Gakpo.

Tottenham’s involvement complicates matters, but Liverpool’s stature and guaranteed European football may appeal more to the player. Fans will also note how much emphasis Slot places on adaptability, and Semenyo offers exactly that—someone who presses hard, runs directly and finishes decisively.

If the price stays within the £60m–£70m range, it could be another smart recruitment move by Liverpool’s data-driven team. Supporters would rightly view it as forward planning rather than reactive business, ensuring the club’s attacking evolution continues smoothly beyond Salah’s prime years.

Tottenham Turn to Brazil as Striker Search Intensifies

Tottenham Hotspur are deep in the market for a new striker and the focus has shifted sharply towards South America, a move that reflects both necessity and ambition inside the club. With Dominic Solanke facing ongoing injury uncertainty and Randal Kolo Muani struggling to settle since arriving on loan from PSG, Thomas Frank is operating with Richarlison as his only senior No.9. The situation has accelerated Tottenham’s winter recruitment plans and reshaped their scouting priorities.

Rising Interest in Vitor Roque

Reports emerging from Brazil and Europe indicate that Spurs, alongside Manchester United and Chelsea, have stepped up their interest in Palmeiras striker Vitor Roque. As cited in the TeamTalk article, Football Insider describes Roque as a forward who has generated significant Premier League attention after scoring 20 goals in 52 games. Pete O’Rourke noted on the Inside Track podcast, “It is an interesting one. Obviously, Roque, when he joined Barcelona from Athletico in Brazil, there was a lot of hype about him, but he really struggled to make an impact for the Catalan giants.”

Tottenham’s scouting department, led by Fabio Paratici, is no stranger to bold moves. The director’s reputation for spotting emerging talent remains strong, and sources suggest his influence is firmly behind the push for Roque. O’Rourke added, “I think Vitor Roque might be one that might be more in the summer that some clubs might look at. You have also got reported interest from Chelsea and Tottenham in Vitor Roque as well.”

Concerns Over Consistency

Any pursuit will not be straightforward. Palmeiras are expected to demand around £42 million for the 20 year old in January. That figure is steep, especially when balanced against Roque’s previous European struggles. He scored just twice in sixteen games for Barcelona before being loaned to Real Betis, where seven goals in thirty three matches suggested improvement but not dominance.

Richarlison’s inconsistency already complicates Tottenham’s forward line. Adding another Brazilian who may need a long adaptation period carries obvious risk. TeamTalk’s assessment is clear: signing Roque “must be considered a gamble”.

Balancing Risk and Reward

There is no denying Roque’s potential. His movement, explosiveness and confidence inside the box fit the modern Premier League profile. Yet Tottenham’s current circumstances demand reliability. Frank needs goals now, not later, and Spurs remain linked with more established options including Ivan Toney and Dusan Vlahovic. Whether the club leans into Paratici’s long term vision or opts for short term output will define their January window.

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Tottenham supporters will feel split by this development. On one hand, the club needs a new striker urgently and the idea of signing a young Brazilian talent with a high ceiling brings excitement.

However, there is also clear frustration brewing. Supporters are weary of experiments in a season where expectations are rising again. Many have seen the club move for raw prospects who take months or even years to adjust while rivals strengthen with established finishers. The reports of Roque struggling at Barcelona will raise alarm bells. A Tottenham fan reading that he scored only twice in sixteen matches might understandably question whether this is the right moment to take another risk in a key position.

There is also the injury cloud hanging over Solanke. Without clarity on his return, Spurs cannot afford to wait for Roque to adapt. Concerned fans would argue that a proven Premier League striker should be the priority in January, not a high potential option who may need patience. While the long term upside is appealing, supporters want momentum now and they want a signing who can change matches immediately.

Recruitment picture under Thomas Frank

Tottenham Hotspur’s medium-term strategy is coming into sharper focus, with plans for 2026 already advanced and a clear intent to pursue statement signings. Under Thomas Frank, Spurs have mapped out a recruitment approach that keeps them agile for January while building towards a front line capable of competing on multiple fronts. The club’s hierarchy remain open-minded about profiles but, at this stage, are understood to be leaning towards a wide forward rather than a pure No 9—though that call will be taken closer to the window once valuations and availability crystallise.

From outside England, targets of genuine profile have been discussed, including Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane, Porto forward Samu Omorodion and Al Ahli striker Ivan Toney. Within the Premier League, there is admiration for Iliman Ndiaye at Everton and Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo—both considered energetic, tactically flexible forwards who fit the pressing and transition demands of a Frank-coached attack.

January priorities and the Ivan Toney angle

Short term, the expectation inside Spurs is that at least one attacker will arrive in January, with significant funds to act should the right opportunity present itself. Early enquiries around Ivan Toney form part of a broader sounding-out exercise as Spurs test the market for elite goalscoring profiles. Toney’s record as a consistent finisher is well known, and there is a belief he could offer the penalty-box presence and hold-up play to complement Frank’s preferred structure. Whether that interest escalates into formal movement will hinge on pricing, exit conditions at Al Ahli and how other options evolve as the window nears.

The dynamics around the squad will also inform decisions. Hopes are high for Dominic Solanke’s return to fitness, Richarlison’s future remains unresolved, and Randal Kolo Muani has suffered a facial injury setback. Each variable nudges the balance between a wide forward and a central focal point. For now, the working plan is to keep multiple pathways open, with Spurs ready to pivot if a top-tier target—be that Rodrygo, Toney or an emerging Premier League performer—becomes attainable on acceptable terms.

Tactical fit and profile selection

Frank’s blueprint emphasises verticality, coordinated pressing and quick connection from midfield to the front line. In that context, Spurs are targeting forwards who can both run channels and combine in tight spaces. Players like Ndiaye and Semenyo appeal because they can operate across the front three, press aggressively and carry threat on the break. A wide forward with strong output would maintain spacing and stretch defences, while a striker in the Toney mould would provide a reference point, secure first contacts and bring runners into play.

Crucially, the club are not locking themselves into a single profile. The recruitment team have compiled a tiered shortlist to work through, allowing them to engage on multiple fronts and move decisively when conditions are right. Should a headline option such as Rodrygo become more accessible, the needle could shift quickly towards a marquee wide addition. If central options firm up—especially around Ivan Toney—Spurs are prepared to allocate resources accordingly.

Commercial momentum and wider market moves

Off the pitch, Tottenham are exploring a novel approach to monetising shirt sponsorship alongside stadium naming rights, with discussions pointing towards a combined package that could be worth in the region of £500 million. That level of commercial uplift would reinforce football operations across recruitment and retention, giving Frank and the sporting structure further room to manoeuvre.

Elsewhere, Spurs remain warm on a Premier League midfielder they have tracked previously, with internal analysis suggesting he is an excellent stylistic match for Frank’s system. And there has been encouragement from Brazil around Rodrygo’s future preferences should his situation at Real Madrid change, potentially placing Tottenham in a competitive position if a departure ever materialised.

What emerges is a coherent, flexible plan: Spurs intend to add at least one attacker in January while continuing to position themselves for high-impact moves through 2026. The club’s diligence across multiple targets—spanning Ivan Toney, Premier League-ready forwards and elite wide options—reflects a recruitment strategy designed to protect against market volatility and injuries while giving Thomas Frank the tools to elevate his attack.