EPL Index

Tottenham Hotspur Eyeing Rashford Spark as Transfer Race Intensifies

Tottenham Hotspur have emerged as one of the most intriguing names in the chase for Marcus Rashford, with Caught Offside revealing that Spurs are firmly in the conversation should Barcelona fail to trigger their €30 million option. While Barça remain favourites, their financial restraints and the growing interest from Premier League sides underline how quickly the landscape around Rashford could shift.

Rising Value in Catalonia

Caught Offside report that Rashford has become an integral part of Hansi Flick’s Barcelona attack. As stated in the original piece, “Rashford has made an immediate impression at Barcelona, both on and off the pitch” and the numbers confirm it. Six goals and nine assists across competitions have put the 27-year-old back among Europe’s most productive forwards. Barcelona’s admiration is not in question, but their accounts are. La Liga salary restrictions continue to bite, and Flick’s squad needs balancing ahead of 2026.

Sporting director Deco and president Joan Laporta still see Rashford as a long term asset. One source quoted by Caught Offside said that “the Blaugrana board are now deliberating over whether to trigger the €30 million buy option” but they want assurances the deal does not derail other priorities. It is the type of uncertainty that encourages opportunistic bids, and Tottenham are among those encouraged.

Spurs Push Under Thomas Frank

With Thomas Frank shaping a more dynamic Spurs attack, the possibility of adding Rashford has gathered momentum. The original report confirms that “Tottenham Hotspur have expressed interest in bringing Rashford back to England” and the club’s strategic direction supports this ambition. Rashford’s ability to play across the front line would offer Frank the flexibility he values, particularly as Spurs continue to evolve post Postecoglou.

Sources in the agents circle describe Tottenham as genuinely intrigued by the idea of revitalising Rashford in London. One voice familiar with the situation said, “Spurs see him as a high ceiling forward who fits their new technical profile”. This is not a casual glance, it is a calculated monitoring of a player who could transform their attacking rotations.

Market Competition Across Europe

PSG remain aggressive suitors, reportedly willing to spend around €50 million if Barcelona decline their clause. Chelsea and Arsenal are also watching developments. Caught Offside note Rashford’s “international pedigree” and versatility, qualities that elevate his market status ahead of a potentially turbulent 2026 window.

What makes Tottenham’s stance compelling is timing. Rashford’s career revival in Spain has restored his confidence and output, and a Premier League return under a manager famed for structure and player clarity could appeal if Barcelona cannot commit. With Ruben Amorim now in his second season at Manchester United, a return to Old Trafford appears unlikely, opening the door for a new chapter in England.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Tottenham supporters will be buzzing at the thought of a player of Rashford’s calibre arriving in north London. Many fans feel the club now finally operates with ambition under Daniel Levy and Johan Lange, and this link reinforces that momentum. Rashford would walk into the Spurs side as a headline arrival, a statement that the club intend to push into the Champions League places again.

There will be a belief among hopeful supporters that Thomas Frank could unlock a level of consistency Rashford struggled for in his later United days. His pressing patterns, fluid attacking lanes and emphasis on vertical speed suit Rashford’s natural game. The idea of him combining with Son, Kulusevski and Johnson would excite any fan planning for the club’s future.

The Barcelona loan spell shows Rashford responds well when trusted and empowered. Spurs fans will feel that the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium atmosphere, along with a clear tactical identity, could convince him that London is the right place to relaunch his Premier League story. If Barcelona hesitate for financial reasons, supporters will hope their club are waiting to strike.

Spurs Defensive Ambition Gathers Pace With Van Hecke Interest

Tottenham Hotspur are shaping their long term recruitment with a clarity that reflects the direction of Thomas Frank’s project. The latest indication centres on Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke, a player Spurs tracked last summer and continue to admire. TeamTalk report that a £40 million proposal is being considered for 2026, highlighting how aggressively the club intend to reinforce their defensive core.

Brighton’s stance is equally firm. Van Hecke has played every minute of their league campaign and his contribution remains essential, particularly after scoring twice in the thrilling 4-3 defeat to Aston Villa. His contract runs until 2027, yet the Seagulls face the classic Premier League dilemma of whether to secure a renewal or sanction a lucrative sale. As TeamTalk note, Brighton could turn a substantial profit on a defender they signed for £3 million from NAC Breda in 2020.

Van Hecke’s Standing And Rising Value

That valuation of around £40 million reflects more than minutes played. It acknowledges his presence within a young squad and the leadership qualities his manager Fabian Hurzeler detailed in glowing terms. “He’s one of my leaders, he’s in the leadership group” the Brighton boss said, adding that his effort “is always above the things you can expect as a coach”. Spurs view that blend of development, consistency and personality as a strong match for Frank’s defensive demands.

Tottenham’s broader intentions also provide context. Sporting directors Johan Lange and Fabio Paratici are preparing for investment across the pitch, targeting goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, wide attackers and centre forwards. The scale of ambition suggests that a move for Van Hecke would be one part of a multi window restructuring. One recruitment source suggested Spurs believe the Dutchman “plays with the temperament of someone ten years older”, a characteristic that has only raised internal interest.

Brighton’s Contract Challenge

Hurzeler has publicly urged the 25-year-old to commit, stating “Hopefully he has a long and bright future here in Brighton”. His point is simple and strategic. With 18 months remaining next winter, the club must either renew or sell. Van Hecke’s trajectory, described by his manager as “a really consistent development”, strengthens both their negotiating position and their difficulty. Losing him for free in 2027 would be unacceptable for a club that have built a reputation on strong trading structures.

For Spurs, this timeline brings opportunity. Their scouting department have followed his progress closely across the opening third of this campaign and are encouraged by his durability and influence. One internal observer is understood to have said that Van Hecke “defends like a captain even when he is not wearing the armband”, emphasising his maturity.

Spurs Long Term Strategy

Frank’s arrival last summer has accelerated Tottenham’s desire for defensive reliability. Recruitment in central defence is prioritised and the Dutchman’s profile aligns with that thinking. Van Hecke offers aerial strength, assertive positioning and a sense of responsibility that Frank’s teams historically value.

If TeamTalk’s reporting proves accurate, Spurs appear ready to test Brighton’s resolve once the 2026 window cycle begins. With Premier League prices inflating and defenders of leadership quality at a premium, Van Hecke stands as one of the most compelling options available.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Tottenham supporter’s standpoint, this report stirs a mix of excitement and realism. Thomas Frank wants defenders who think quickly, communicate clearly and handle pressure with authority. Van Hecke ticks those boxes. His appearances for Brighton show someone who reads danger early and competes physically without being reckless. Supporters have grown tired of defensive lapses in recent seasons, so the idea of adding a centre back described by his manager as “one of my leaders” naturally captures the imagination.

The £40 million fee feels steep but not unreasonable in today’s market, especially for someone who has proven himself consistently in the Premier League. Fans will also appreciate that Spurs are monitoring players who fit Frank’s identity, rather than returning to patchwork recruitment. Van Hecke’s age, maturity and upward curve suggest he could anchor the defence for years.

The only hesitation would be Brighton’s negotiating strength. They rarely sell cheaply and they rarely sell early. Even so, this link signals Tottenham’s ambition and their readiness to build a defence capable of competing with the league’s best. For many Spurs fans, that ambition alone is worth celebrating.

Spurs weigh January move as Brentford prepare for bids

The January window is beginning to take shape around a familiar Premier League storyline. A striker finds form, goals arrive in clusters, and suddenly a player who began the season on the margins becomes the centrepiece of an auction. This time the focus is Igor Thiago, whose run of 11 goals in 13 Premier League games has dragged Brentford into competitive territory and drawn the attention of Spurs, Newcastle United and Aston Villa, according to Caught Offside.

For Tottenham, the timing could hardly be more intriguing. A squad adjusting to new demands after Thomas Frank’s arrival now faces the prospect of adding a forward built in the mould of a player who thrives on physical duels, direct running and sharp penalty area instinct. The situation is delicate for Brentford, but Spurs sense an opportunity that aligns neatly with their long term ambitions.

Spurs interest grows as momentum builds

The report reiterates that Thiago’s progress has been monitored throughout the autumn, with clubs circling early. One source summarised the situation plainly.

“Newcastle, Spurs and Villa are strongly interested after closely scouting Igor Thiago. Even Brentford know now that they’re highly likely to receive tempting offers for him when the transfer window opens again,” one source said.

Spurs have been particularly diligent. With the managerial change and a fresh tactical structure taking shape, adding another forward feels less like a luxury and more like an evolution. The appeal lies not just in goals but in Thiago’s profile, a forward who can stretch a defence, press with aggression and provide a different dimension to existing options.

Brentford brace for bids

Brentford, already weakened by the summer departures of Bryan Mbeumo, Wissa and Christian Norgaard, are attempting to project confidence in keeping Thiago. The reality, however, seems harsher. A striker scoring at his current rate rarely remains available for long, and the financial pull of a €35m to €40m offer can quickly reshape even the most optimistic expectations.

It remains to be seen if the Brazilian striker will definitely move, but it seems Brentford aren’t too optimistic about keeping him as the likes of Spurs, Newcastle and Villa prepare their moves.

Tottenham assess opportunity in crowded race

For Spurs, this is a chance to act decisively in a market where opportunities rarely sit still. Thiago’s emergence offers them a forward entering his prime years, tested by the Premier League’s tempo and capable of adapting quickly. The question becomes whether Tottenham wish to fight for him now or risk competing in a wider scramble next summer.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Tottenham have spent several seasons searching for a reliable long term centre forward who can complement the tactical direction of the team rather than merely fill a gap. Igor Thiago looks like he belongs in that conversation, especially given how naturally he has adapted to Premier League pace.

The fact he has already produced 11 goals in 13 games makes him stand out immediately. Spurs fans have long admired forwards who combine physical presence with clean finishing, and Thiago fits that mould. The idea of bringing in a player who can rotate with or support the current options offers a degree of squad depth that Spurs have lacked in key periods of recent years.

There would also be poetic appeal in Tottenham signing a striker shaped under Thomas Frank’s old regime. Supporters are aware of how highly Frank values pressing, movement and intelligence without the ball. If Thiago embodies those traits, the transition into Spurs’ system would feel far smoother than many past signings.

Of course, €35m to €40m is not insignificant, and fans would want assurances that the club avoid repeating past mistakes of overpaying for players yet to prove themselves long term. But unlike speculative gambles from previous windows, Thiago feels like someone already thriving in the Premier League, reducing the adaptation risk.

Overall, Spurs supporters would welcome this move. In a season where ambition must be matched by smart structural additions, Thiago looks like the kind of signing that signals intent rather than panic.

Spurs poised for defining 2026 recruitment window

Tottenham Hotspur head towards 2026 with unanswered questions and growing urgency. Reporting from The Athletic paints a squad stretched in midfield and attacking areas, leaving supporters uneasy about competitiveness against direct rivals. Much hinges on fitness. Dominic Solanke and Dejan Kulusevski are expected to return from injury soon, while James Maddison faces a longer absence. If both Solanke and Kulusevski “hit the ground running”, market pressure could ease in the centre forward and creative midfield roles. As things stand, however, the impression lingers that Spurs are under-resourced compared to most of their competitors.

There is also significant scrutiny on the Lewis family, with this upcoming window their first since Daniel Levy’s dismissal. Fans crave a statement of intent rather than another incremental adjustment to a squad that feels short of depth and authority.

Semenyo interest revives transfer rumblings

One player continues to dominate speculation. Spurs made an enquiry for Antoine Semenyo in the summer, only to be quoted a £70m fee by Bournemouth. Since then, the winger has signed a fresh contract, yet the situation has shifted. The Athletic’s David Ornstein revealed last month that he has “a £65m release clause active this January”.

There are currently no signs that Tottenham will revisit that chase immediately, despite the clause offering a defined route to acquisition. Nevertheless, the possibility remains tantalising for a fanbase eager for direct, high-impact attacking additions.

Bissouma future appears uncertain

The spotlight also falls on potential departures. Yves Bissouma “has not played a single minute for Thomas Frank yet this season”, though part of that absence is attributed to an ankle injury. His situation is complicated further by the proximity of his contract expiry. He “nearly left Spurs over the summer”, and it would be little surprise to see him placed back on the market in January, effectively drawing a line under an otherwise inconsistent Tottenham chapter.

Outgoings like Bissouma would provide the financial and squad space required to support any incoming midfield refresh.

Melia arrival shapes January narrative

While heavy reinforcement remains undecided, one signing is already confirmed. January brings the arrival of Mason Melia, the “18-year-old Irish striker” secured in February through a £2million deal from St Patrick’s Athletic.

Melia’s numbers are encouraging. He finished the League of Ireland season as the “second-top scorer in the league, with 13 goals”, as St Pat’s claimed fifth place. He has also impressed with the Republic of Ireland Under-21s.

The pressing question now surrounds his immediate pathway. Will Melia integrate into first team training to compete with Dane Scarlett, remain with the Under-21s to build physically, or depart temporarily on loan? Each route reflects a club still weighing development against results, patience against pressure.

As 2026 approaches, Spurs stand at a threshold requiring boldness. Depth deficits have been exposed and supporters look to ownership for decisive leadership to re-establish genuine momentum.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Spurs’ squad is short where it matters most. Madison’s absence has robbed the team of creativity, while the reliance on Solanke’s recovery underlines worrying fragility in the forward line. Semenyo’s availability through a £65m clause appears precisely the type of opportunity Tottenham should act upon. Waiting has rarely paid off for Spurs, and hesitation now risks another wasted half-season.

The uncertainty surrounding Bissouma feels inevitable. His inability to establish rhythm has mirrored the club’s own inconsistent midfield structure. Cashing in while value remains could fund a genuine upgrade.

Melia excites supporters, but few expect an immediate solution. Youth alone cannot bridge the present quality gap. Fans want ambition that matches the stadium, infrastructure and fanbase. The expectation is simple: use this first Lewis family window to announce that Spurs are serious again about competing at the top end of the Premier League.

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.

Our View, EPL Index Analysis

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.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

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.