EPL Index

Real Madrid Plot Move for Tottenham Star Micky van de Ven

Madrid’s Summer Defensive Overhaul

Real Madrid have placed Tottenham’s Micky van de Ven at the top of their shortlist as they prepare for a defensive rebuild ahead of the summer of 2026, according to Fichajes. With David Alaba and Antonio Rüdiger confirmed to be leaving, Xabi Alonso and Florentino Pérez are seeking a long-term solution to solidify the back line. “Micky van de Ven is one of the main objectives to reinforce the defence,” the report stated, underlining Madrid’s intent to invest heavily in this position.

Rising Star of the Premier League

Van de Ven has quickly become one of the most commanding defenders in the Premier League. His pace, reading of the game and ability to play out from the back have made him central to Tottenham’s resurgence. As Fichajes highlighted, “he has played over 40 matches since his arrival and has surpassed other defenders in Madrid’s consideration, including Cristian Romero.” The appeal for Madrid is obvious. They see a player who could anchor their defence for the next decade.

Tottenham’s Stance and Market Reality

Negotiating with Tottenham will be no easy task. The London club view van de Ven as a cornerstone of their project and value him at around €80 million. That figure may not deter Madrid, who are prioritising signings of proven quality and long-term potential. Yet Spurs hold the cards, and much will depend on their willingness to even open talks. The player’s entourage, however, “view favourably the interest from Madrid,” recognising the opportunity to step onto a bigger European stage.

Konaté Also Considered

Van de Ven is not the only target. Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konaté, whose contract expires in 2026, remains a realistic option should Madrid fail to prise van de Ven away from Tottenham. This dual pursuit highlights Madrid’s urgency to reshape their defensive unit. As Fichajes put it, “the plan is to build a backline with projection that can guarantee stability for the next decade.”

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Spurs fans, this news will spark mixed emotions. On one hand, it is a sign that the club’s recruitment strategy is paying off, with van de Ven attracting interest from one of Europe’s biggest teams. On the other hand, the idea of losing him so soon after his arrival is troubling. Tottenham have built their resurgence around a strong defensive core, and van de Ven has been central to that.

The reported €80 million valuation seems fair in today’s market, but Spurs supporters would argue that he is worth far more to the club’s ambitions. Selling a defender of his calibre would force the club to find an immediate replacement, risking a step back just when progress has been made under their current project.

Fans would also be wary of Madrid’s ability to turn players’ heads. The prospect of playing at the Santiago Bernabéu is difficult for any footballer to resist. Many Spurs fans will hope the club stands firm, making it clear that van de Ven is not for sale unless Madrid pay a premium that allows Tottenham to reinvest in an equally top-tier defender.

If Spurs are serious about challenging for silverware, they must keep hold of their key players and build around them rather than cashing in. Losing van de Ven would be a major test of their ambition.

Tottenham Hotspur Receive Timely Fitness Boost Ahead of Brighton Test

Tottenham Hotspur approach their Premier League meeting with Brighton with welcome news from the treatment room. Manager Thomas Frank has confirmed that striker Dominic Solanke has returned to training after an ankle injury that has restricted him since pre-season.

Solanke edging closer to full return

Solanke has endured a frustrating start under Frank, having managed only 31 minutes of league football this campaign. He appeared as a substitute against Burnley on the opening weekend and featured briefly in the victory at Manchester City, while also coming off the bench in the Super Cup against Paris Saint-Germain.

His involvement has since been curtailed by ankle problems, forcing him to miss Tottenham’s last three matches entirely. This week, however, the 28-year-old striker resumed individual sessions at Hotspur Way. Frank emphasised that although the player is not yet ready for match action, progress is being made.

Frank said: “The positive thing is he’s back on grass and has been there for three, four days and is progressing forward. Slowly, but forward. It’s too early obviously for tomorrow, too early also for Doncaster. But the positive is he’s on the grass and pushing forward.”

Tottenham attacking options in focus

Solanke’s absence has seen Richarlison assume responsibility as the central striker. The Brazilian has led the line in recent weeks, while 19-year-old Mathys Tel was given the nod to start at West Ham. Both have worked to provide solutions, but Frank will be eager to welcome back his first-choice option, particularly as the fixture list intensifies.

Tottenham have made encouraging strides under their new manager since he succeeded Ange Postecoglou in the summer. Results have been built around energy and flexibility in attack, yet the squad remains in transition. Having Solanke available again would add another dimension, giving Frank a focal point with proven Premier League pedigree.

Brighton clash comes at pivotal moment

The upcoming trip to the Amex Stadium is significant for both sides. Brighton have developed into one of the most consistent challengers in the division, capable of unsettling any opponent on home soil. Frank will know his team must carry both resilience and composure to secure a result.

Tottenham supporters will be encouraged to hear that Solanke’s rehabilitation is on track, even if his return will not come in time for the weekend. The manager’s cautious approach suggests the striker will be eased back carefully, perhaps with an eye on fixtures following Doncaster.

For now, Tottenham Hotspur prepare for Brighton with their attacking burden still shouldered by Richarlison and Tel, but with the knowledge that Solanke is edging back towards competitive action. His return could prove crucial as Frank looks to build momentum during the early months of his tenure.

Tottenham vs Villarreal: Predicted Lineup and Team News for Champions League Opener

Tottenham step back into the glare of European football tonight, opening their Champions League campaign against Villarreal at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. There is a sense of anticipation in north London – not only because of the competition itself but also due to the potential debut of a late summer arrival.

Spotlight on Kolo Muani

Deadline Day signing Randal Kolo Muani is edging closer to his first appearance in a Tottenham shirt. He was on the bench during the win over West Ham but could finally be unleashed on European soil.

“Randal Kolo Muani is ready,” manager Thomas Frank confirmed. “How many minutes? They can always play more minutes than we think. If we needed him to play he could play 90 minutes, but can he play at the intensity and the level we want? He is ready and he is involved tomorrow and that is the most important thing.”

Richarlison is also in contention to lead the line, with Mathys Tel unavailable for the group stages. Frank must weigh up whether to ease Kolo Muani in or trust the Brazilian to continue his form.

Injuries and Selection Dilemmas

Tottenham remain without Dominic Solanke, sidelined with an ankle injury that disrupted his pre-season. The absence of James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski also continues to shape Frank’s midfield options, while Bissouma, Dragusin and Takai are likewise ruled out.

Destiny Udogie could return at full-back, adding energy down the flank, while Rodrigo Bentancur pushes for a recall in midfield. Frank’s balancing act extends further forward, with Xavi Simons impressing in flashes but still searching for rhythm. His potential switch into a central No10 role may come at the expense of Lucas Bergvall or Pape Matar Sarr – both strong performers in recent weeks.

Predicted Tottenham XI vs Villarreal

Frank’s side are expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 shape:

Vicario; Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Spence; Palhinha, Bentancur; Kudus, Simons, Johnson; Richarlison

Kick-off and Broadcast Details

The match kicks off at 8pm BST, Tuesday 16 September 2025, under the lights at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Supporters can watch the action live via Amazon Prime.

Tottenham’s New Era: The Lewis Family Steps Into the Spotlight

When the cameras scan the directors’ box at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, a familiar figure will be missing. Daniel Levy, once the ever-present executive chairman, has been moved aside after more than two decades at the heart of the club’s power structure. His departure signals a profound shift, one that places the younger generations of the Lewis family at the forefront of Spurs’ future.

Vivienne Lewis and Her Expanding Influence

Vivienne Lewis, daughter of billionaire Joe Lewis, has become the most recognisable face of the family’s growing involvement. At 63, she is a senior managing director at Tavistock Group — the investment firm that owns ENIC — and sits on its board.

She was highly visible on Tottenham’s pre-season tour to Hong Kong and South Korea, and was seen alongside Levy for the opening fixture against Burnley. Beyond football, she has overseen Tavistock’s golf estates in Florida and the family’s renowned private art collection. Her presence in the front row of the directors’ box emphasises her intention to play an active role in shaping Spurs’ next chapter.

Charles Lewis’ Expanding Portfolio

Vivienne’s brother, Charles, is also stepping into a more public role. A year younger, he too holds a senior position at Tavistock and has built a reputation through leadership of the Tavistock Restaurant Collection — a portfolio of more than 150 acclaimed venues across the Americas. His background in global business is expected to bring a sharper edge to Tottenham’s commercial ambitions.

Nick Beucher’s Emerging Role

The third family figure making waves is Nick Beucher, co-chief executive of Tavistock and husband to Vivienne’s daughter, Joanna. He leads international strategy and investment projects and, crucially, is increasingly visible at Tottenham fixtures. Beucher’s involvement suggests Spurs will continue to tie global business expertise directly into football operations.

Trusted Advisers and Structural Change

Though not part of the family, Peter Charrington has been appointed as Tottenham’s non-executive chairman. A long-time adviser to the Lewises, he spent 26 years at Citibank, including six as CEO. Spurs’ chief executive Vinai Venkatesham explained: “What Peter’s role is that he will be non-executive chairman, and that means he won’t be involved in the club on a full-time basis and he won’t be involved in the club on a day-to-day basis and his model is all around empowerment.”

Venkatesham has assumed daily control, insisting the transition will be smooth. Yet it is clear Tottenham now stands on the threshold of a new era — one in which the Lewis family will no longer be silent investors but visible architects of the club’s direction.

Spurs Injury Update on Solanke, Bissouma, Dragusin and More

Tottenham’s squad picture is slowly coming into focus as the club heads into a crucial period of the season, with fresh injury updates on key players including Dominic Solanke, Yves Bissouma, Radu Dragusin and James Maddison. Spurs fans will be relieved to hear that some stars are edging closer to a return, while others still face a long road back.

Solanke Nearing Return for West Ham Clash

Dominic Solanke remains under assessment after the ankle injury that kept him out of the 1-0 defeat to Bournemouth before the international break. Manager Thomas Frank offered cautious optimism at the time, saying: “Yeah got a minor issue with his ankle. That’s been a little bit grumbling also in the pre-season. It’s just too much for this game and now we have international break so hopefully he can be ready after that.”

The hope is that Solanke will be fit to face West Ham on 13 September, with Spurs eager to have him back to add firepower to their attack. His early-season injuries have been a frustration given his importance to Frank’s system.

Bissouma’s Situation Improves

Yves Bissouma has endured a stop-start few months, first missing the UEFA Super Cup against Paris Saint-Germain for disciplinary reasons and then suffering an injury in training. A transfer to Galatasaray was in place before concerns over his fitness scuppered the deal. Frank recently told reporters: “He’s out for the next game. I don’t have a specific timeline for him, but I don’t think it will be that long.”

The Mali international is expected back by late September, which will give Spurs an extra midfield option heading into a demanding fixture schedule.

Dragusin Steps Up Recovery

Perhaps the most uplifting news for Spurs supporters is the sight of Radu Dragusin back in first-team training. The centre-back has been out since February with an ACL injury and his absence has been felt. Although left out of the Champions League squad, Frank insists patience is key: “When you’ve been out of football for nine months, you need to get in. It’s not enough to have a six-week pre-season. You need to take a little bit more time, but it’s positive.”

Dragusin could realistically be available towards the end of 2025, providing valuable defensive depth for the run-in.

Long-Term Absentees Still Missing

Summer signing Kota Takai remains unavailable with a plantar fascia issue, while James Maddison is set to miss the majority of the season after rupturing his ACL. Spurs have confirmed his surgery was successful, but he is not expected back until April 2026.

Dejan Kulusevski is another long-term absentee but his encouraging comments to Viaplay will buoy fans. “The status is great. I wake up every day with the same hunger,” he said, targeting a comeback in early 2026.

Key Focus for Spurs

The coming weeks will be vital for Thomas Frank as he looks to reintegrate players carefully and avoid further setbacks. The gradual return of Solanke, Bissouma and eventually Dragusin could help Spurs stabilise their season after a stuttering start. The squad depth has been tested severely, but with several players edging closer to full fitness, there is cause for optimism in North London.

Spurs Handed Timely Injury Boost Before West Ham Clash

Positive news has arrived for Spurs and Thomas Frank ahead of their Premier League trip to West Ham this weekend. Cristian Romero has provided a crucial boost by returning early from international duty, giving the captain valuable preparation time.

Romero was expected to be one of several players flying back late from South America, but a yellow card in Argentina’s World Cup qualifying win over Venezuela means he is suspended for their next match against Ecuador. This suspension has worked in Spurs’ favour, with Romero returning to North London over the weekend.

Footage posted by Spurs on Monday showed him back in training, giving him a full week alongside his team-mates before the crucial London derby.

Dragusin Steps Up Recovery

There was further encouragement for Spurs supporters as Radu Dragusin joined first-team training. The 23-year-old defender has been sidelined since February with an ACL injury but has steadily progressed in his rehabilitation.

Thomas Frank offered a measured update before the international break, saying: “Of course it is an ACL. I’m always a little bit more, not worried but just aware that it takes time. When you’ve been out of football for nine months, you know, you need to get in. It’s not enough to have a six-week pre-season. You need to take a little bit more time, but it’s positive and and some surprise and come back quicker, of course.”

Spurs Building Momentum

Although Dragusin has been left out of the Champions League squad for the group stage, his presence in training is a lift for the squad. His gradual return, coupled with Romero’s early comeback, gives Spurs a psychological edge as they look to build momentum in the league.

This double boost could not come at a better time for Frank, who will be keen to see his side maintain their strong start to the season and tighten their grip near the top of the table.

Atlético Madrid Monitor Spurs Midfielder as Contract Talks Stall

Atlético Madrid are monitoring Rodrigo Bentancur’s situation at Tottenham Hotspur, with a potential move to La Liga being considered for the Uruguayan international. According to Fichajes.

Bentancur, 28, is entering a crucial period of his career and his future remains uncertain with no signs yet of a contract renewal. His deal runs until the summer of 2026, which gives Spurs some security, but the lack of progress on talks could turn him into a target for Europe’s top clubs.

Key Role Under Thomas Frank

Bentancur has been a key figure for Thomas Frank so far this season, starting in all four of Spurs’ competitive fixtures, split between the Europe and the Premier League. His experience and composure in midfield have been vital as Frank tries to blend established stars with emerging talents such as Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall.

“I am focused on helping Tottenham this season, but in football you never know what might happen,” Bentancur is reported to have said in a recent interview, underlining both his commitment and his awareness of how quickly circumstances can change.

Atlético’s Tactical Interest

Atlético’s interest comes amid uncertainty over the future of Conor Gallagher, who is expected to return to the Premier League next summer. Diego Simeone reportedly views Bentancur as the perfect fit for his double pivot, offering a combination of defensive stability and passing range.

The Argentine coach sees Bentancur as an experienced partner for Pablo Barrios and Johnny Cardoso, while providing immediate reliability in key matches. His previous spells at Juventus and now Tottenham have honed him into a midfielder capable of thriving in a high-pressure environment.

Contract Considerations

The financial element is critical. Atlético are only expected to pursue the deal if there is an opportunity to sign Bentancur on a free transfer or for a reduced fee. Paying a premium for a player who may not be in Spurs’ long-term plans is not an option for the Madrid club.

Bentancur, for his part, would reportedly welcome a first experience in Spanish football after previous spells in Argentina and Italy. The chance to play under Simeone at a club regularly competing in Europe’s knockout stages would be a logical next step.

With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Bentancur will be keen to maintain regular minutes at the highest level to stay central to Marcelo Bielsa’s plans for Uruguay.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Bentancur has been one of the most technically gifted midfielders at the club since his arrival from Juventus and offers a level of control and decision-making that few others in the squad can match. His ability to play through pressure and link defence to attack has been crucial in big matches.

That said, the direction of travel under Thomas Frank is clear. Spurs are building around a younger core, with Gray and Bergvall seen as the future of the midfield. If a significant offer were to come from Atlético, supporters might view it as a pragmatic move, freeing up wages and potentially allowing investment in other areas.

The ideal outcome for many fans would be to see Bentancur stay and mentor the next generation for another season or two, then move on with the club receiving a respectable fee. Losing him on a free in 2026 would represent poor business. If there is no sign of an extension by the end of this season, Spurs will need to act decisively.

Bissouma’s Future in Doubt as Spurs Consider Exit

Yves Bissouma’s Tottenham career is nearing its conclusion after a difficult start under Thomas Frank. The midfielder, signed for £25 million from Brighton in 2022, has slipped down the pecking order following the arrival of Joao Palhinha, who was immediately installed as a starter in Spurs’ midfield.

Frank’s decision to leave Bissouma out of the UEFA Super Cup squad last month was telling. Since then, the Mali international has not featured for Tottenham this season. Football Insider reports that Spurs could yet sanction a late move to Saudi Arabia or Turkey before those windows close, with a loan deal also being considered to ease the wage bill.

Contract Dilemma

Allowing Bissouma to leave on loan risks losing him for free in 12 months’ time. Spurs will weigh that against the potential benefit of freeing up salary space and avoiding dressing-room stagnation. “Frank is happy to sell Bissouma before the two aforementioned countries’ transfer windows close,” the report stated.

Everton and West Ham both pulled out of potential moves before the Premier League deadline, narrowing Tottenham’s options for a permanent sale.

International Absence

Bissouma’s struggles have extended to the international stage. He was left out of Mali’s World Cup qualifiers this month, missing a 3-0 victory over Comoros and a costly 1-0 defeat to Ghana that leaves Mali fourth in their group.

Taking to Instagram, Bissouma sent a message of support to his national side: “I am with you in spirit. We win together and we also lose together. We will come back stronger, inshallah. Proud of you, my soldiers, and strength to us for the future. See you soon…”

Spurs’ Midfield Evolution

Palhinha’s arrival appears to have signalled the end of Bissouma’s Spurs career. The Portuguese international’s impact has been immediate, and Tottenham’s midfield now looks set for a rebuild around him.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Bissouma arrived at Spurs as one of the most exciting defensive midfielders in the Premier League, but his time at Tottenham never fully ignited. Injuries, managerial changes and inconsistent form have all played a part, and now the club looks ready to move in a different direction.

Thomas Frank’s willingness to play Palhinha ahead of him shows a decisive shift in approach. Palhinha offers solidity and control, and the midfield feels more balanced with him anchoring it. Still, there is a sense of frustration that Spurs might lose Bissouma for less than his value or even for free.

Supporters will be watching closely to see if Spurs can at least negotiate a favourable loan with an option to buy, ensuring they recoup part of the £25 million investment. If not, this could go down as one of the more disappointing transfers of recent seasons. The hope now is that the club use the freed wages to strengthen in January and keep the momentum going under Frank.

Van de Ven on Real Madrid Radar as Tottenham Stand Firm

Rising status of Van de Ven

At just 24, Micky van de Ven has established himself as one of the Premier League’s standout defenders. Since arriving at Tottenham, the Dutch centre-back has combined pace, composure, and authority to anchor Ange Postecoglou’s back line. His rapid adaptation to English football has earned widespread admiration, making him an integral part of Tottenham’s plans for the future.

Van de Ven’s development has not gone unnoticed abroad. Real Madrid, always alert to Europe’s emerging talent, have identified him as a potential long-term addition to their defence. The Spanish club’s scouts are said to be tracking his progress closely, impressed by his blend of athleticism and positional intelligence.

Real Madrid weighing defensive reinforcements

The interest from Madrid stems partly from their own challenges at the back. Injuries have exposed gaps in their defensive depth, prompting discussions at boardroom level about securing a reliable centre-back. Van de Ven’s consistency and physical profile match the criteria set by the club’s hierarchy, who view him as a candidate capable of stepping into the demands of the Santiago Bernabéu.

What is particularly notable is Van de Ven’s rise in Madrid’s internal priority list. Reports suggest his name is now being discussed ahead of other defenders once considered more likely targets, a reflection of the reputation he has built during his short time in England.

Tottenham’s stance on potential departure

For Tottenham, the situation is clear. Van de Ven is viewed as a cornerstone of their project and is unlikely to be sold easily. Club sources value him at around €80 million, a figure that would present even Real Madrid with a decision to make. While Madrid’s financial power is rarely in question, committing such a sum to a player still in the early stages of his Premier League career would require significant deliberation.

Spurs supporters, meanwhile, remain hopeful that Van de Ven will continue to grow in North London. His performances have made him a favourite among the fanbase, embodying the ambition of a side eager to return to serious contention for silverware.

Future outlook for Van de Ven

From the player’s perspective, the links to Madrid underline his progress. To be discussed in connection with one of Europe’s elite clubs is recognition of his standing, and the allure of the famous white shirt is undeniable for any footballer. Yet Van de Ven’s immediate future remains tied to Tottenham, where his influence is expanding with every match.

The coming transfer window is likely to shape the next chapter. Whether Real Madrid intensify their pursuit or Tottenham maintain their resolve, Van de Ven’s trajectory places him firmly in the spotlight. His combination of speed, leadership, and defensive assurance has already made him one of the most promising centre-backs in Europe — and his next move, whenever it comes, will be watched with close attention.

Tottenham Eye January Move for Dennis Cirkin

Tottenham Hotspur could be set for a reunion with a familiar face, as reports suggest a January move for Sunderland’s Dennis Cirkin is under consideration. According to Graeme Bailey of TBR Football, Thomas Frank is “considering a move for Dennis Cirkin in January” as Spurs look to strengthen their options at full-back.

Why Cirkin Fits Tottenham’s Needs

Spurs’ squad has been under pressure in Europe, where they were forced to name just 22 players for the Champions League group stage due to a shortage of homegrown talent. Cirkin, a product of the Tottenham academy, would qualify as a club-trained player – a vital factor for UEFA registration.

As the original report highlights, “Cirkin came through Tottenham Hotspur’s academy and would count as club-trained in Europe, which would be a huge boost for their squad.” For a club seeking to balance depth with compliance, this could be a smart move.

Opportunity for a Cut-Price Deal

Cirkin, now 23, is entering the final months of his contract at Sunderland. His situation has become unsettled following the arrival of Reinildo from Atlético Madrid, leaving him “somewhat frustrated at the Stadium of Light, having fallen down the pecking order.”

This opens the door for Tottenham to swoop in during January and potentially land the left-back at a bargain fee. The timing seems crucial, as the club had considered Cirkin during the summer but chose not to act.

Tottenham’s Current Full-Back Picture

With Djed Spence, Destiny Udogie, Pedro Porro, and Ben Davies as current full-back options, Spurs have numbers but perhaps not the balance Thomas Frank wants. Bailey’s report stresses that while Davies can fill in, it would “only be if disaster struck,” underlining the need for another reliable option.

For Tottenham, the prospect of adding quality and ticking the homegrown box makes Cirkin a strong candidate for January.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Tottenham fan’s perspective, this potential move feels like a clever piece of business rather than a headline signing. The need to address the Champions League squad size has been obvious since the summer, and recruiting someone like Cirkin – who already understands the culture of the club – could be a low-risk solution.

Many fans will recall his academy promise and feel a sense of unfinished business. His versatility and homegrown status provide added value, especially when UEFA restrictions come into play. The thought of a “cut-price” return also softens the deal for supporters wary of overspending.

That said, the question is whether Cirkin is the calibre of player required for a team with Champions League ambitions. With Destiny Udogie establishing himself as a first-choice option, and Pedro Porro excelling on the right, Cirkin may find minutes hard to come by. Some fans might argue this is more of a depth signing than a push to elevate the squad.

However, depth wins competitions. Injuries and fixture congestion will hit hard after Christmas, and Spurs have learned the cost of being under-resourced in previous seasons. Bringing Cirkin back offers both practicality and sentiment – a combination that usually resonates with the fan base.

Overall, while not glamorous, this move could be judged as quietly effective. If the fee is right and Cirkin embraces the chance to reignite his Tottenham career, fans are likely to welcome him home.