EPL Index

Spurs pivot to Iliman Ndiaye after Morgan Rogers renewal

Market context and motivation

Tottenham’s winger search has taken a predictable turn, with Morgan Rogers committing his long-term future to Aston Villa until 2031, as first reported elsewhere and credited in TeamTalk’s follow up. Spurs had tracked Rogers for months and weighed a summer move, but, as TeamTalk relayed, they suspected a renewal was imminent and recalibrated their list accordingly. Dean Jones told TeamTalk, “Friday was not a great day for Tottenham in terms of transfer news as two of the players they really like from within the Premier League look like they won’t be gettable any time soon.” That reality has placed Everton’s Iliman Ndiaye near the top of Tottenham’s shortlist.

Profile and fit at Tottenham

Ndiaye brings Premier League experience, direct running and end-product. As TeamTalk note, he has 15 goals and one assist in 49 Everton appearances, with a contract to 2029. Spurs want dynamism in wide areas, and the description shared with TeamTalk is instructive, “he is a player with a spark, and that’s the sort of thing Tottenham are looking for.” Sources framed the shift as opportunistic rather than reactive. One line, again via Jones, captures the internal logic, “It’s not a major blow because they expected it to be a difficult deal, but I do think that Ndiaye has crept onto their radar as someone that might become more attainable.” From conversations described to TeamTalk, the club view Ndiaye as a system fit who can attack full backs on the outside and press high, while offering depth across the frontline.

Pricing reality and Everton posture

TeamTalk’s Fraser Fletcher offered a clear steer on valuation, with Everton described as ready to rebuff January interest and dismissing a mooted £30 million fee as “laughable.” The report adds, “Everton are adamant they won’t entertain offers below their internal assessment,” and draws parallels with premium valuations across the league. There is external attention too, with Newcastle United, Juventus, AC Milan and Atletico Madrid monitoring, while Napoli admire the player’s versatility. TeamTalk also carry firm public guidance from the dugout. As quoted by the Liverpool Echo and carried by TeamTalk, the manager said, “Here at Everton, we’re building a team and we want to build with players like Ili, so we’ve got no intention of letting him go, that’s for sure.”

Timelines and Tottenham’s playbook

Spurs are planning for multiple outcomes, and the cadence is straightforward. January is difficult, summer is more plausible, contingent on Everton’s season and the market for wide forwards. As one source line in TeamTalk has it, “It’s probably one to keep an eye on.” Internally, Tottenham accept that elite domestic wingers command a premium, and their stance echoes the message briefed to TeamTalk, “There really is no limit in terms of the ambition Spurs are going to show from this point on.” In short, Tottenham have moved quickly after the Rogers disappointment, they have identified Ndiaye as a serious target, and they are braced for a negotiation that will require patience and flexibility.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Tottenham supporters will read this and see two truths at once. First, the club recognised the Rogers impasse early, and that is encouraging, smart clubs anticipate renewals and pivot. Second, the alternative is talented and Premier League proven, but the path to signing him is crowded and expensive. Everton’s position, as relayed in TeamTalk, sounds immovable, “no intention of letting him go,” and the valuation guidance wipes out the idea of a £30 million deal. For Spurs, the question is not only whether Ndiaye improves the XI, it is whether he moves the needle against rivals who can also outbid and out-wage.

From a fan perspective, the worry sits with timing. January buying from a domestic peer is historically messy, and summer windows quickly become complex if multiple suitors are involved. If Tottenham want a right-now injection of pace and goals, a continental option with a release clause may prove more attainable. That does not mean Ndiaye should be off the list, far from it, but contingency planning matters, especially if Everton secure their aims early in the window.

Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United delivered a chaotic 2-2 draw that offered drama in the final moments but very little in terms of sustained quality. It was a contest marked by hesitation, defensive lapses and isolated sparks of attacking clarity. The scoreline reflected both sides’ inconsistencies, yet it also highlighted the competitive urgency within a fixture that rarely settles quietly.

United struck first, capitalising on Tottenham’s early wastefulness. Richarlison missed a clear header when the match remained goalless, and Spurs were punished moments later when Amad Diallo floated a clipped ball to the back post for Bryan Mbeumo. Pulling away from Pedro Porro, Mbeumo met the cross cleanly and steered United into the lead. Tottenham’s defensive structure faltered and United, at that stage, looked the more organised side.

Spurs Struggle With Rhythm Then Rally Late

The first half drifted without conviction, reminiscent of European ties that fail to ignite. Spurs lacked cohesion and United rarely threatened beyond their opener. Tottenham improved marginally after the interval, but the game maintained its subdued tone. There was little indication a Spurs equaliser would arrive until Thomas Frank turned to Mathys Tel from the bench.

His change drew muted discontent when Xavi Simons departed, although the manager was vindicated when Tel converted with eight minutes remaining. The substitute reacted sharply and brought Spurs level, restoring life to a contest previously defined by slog rather than spark.

Late Drama As De Ligt Denies Tottenham

The closing stages were muddled and frantic. United were reduced to ten when Benjamin Sesko was forced off injured after all substitutions had been used. Spurs pushed forward and belief surged when Richarlison scrambled what appeared to be a stoppage time winner. The Brazilian, who had endured a poor afternoon, thought he had silenced the criticism. Then came the sting.

Deep into additional time, Matthijs de Ligt climbed from right back to head in a dramatic equaliser. His intervention punctured Tottenham’s celebrations and left the home support exasperated. It was a finish that captured the rhythm of the afternoon, erratic, messy and ultimately shared.

Tottenham Hotspur Player Ratings

Guglielmo Vicario, 6

Not culpable for the opening goal.

Pedro Porro, 5

Lost Mbeumo for the header and struggled throughout.

Cristian Romero, 4

Reckless, erratic and out of sync with the match tempo.

Micky van de Ven, 6

Unsettled at times and slow into rhythm.

Djed Spence, 6

Left exposed by those around him but held his ground.

Joao Palhinha, 6

Worked hard with little midfield protection.

Pape Matar Sarr, 6

Steady but unspectacular.

Brennan Johnson, 6

Offered width, saw a goal ruled out for offside.

Xavi Simons, 6.5

Brightest attacking presence in spells.

Richarlison, 5

Missed a decisive early chance, marginal improvement late on.

Randal Kolo Muani, 6

Battled Maguire, withdrawn at half time.

Wilson Odobert, 6

Struggled to influence a flat match.

Destiny Udogie, 6.5

Delivered the cross for the equaliser.

Rodrigo Bentancur, 5

Battled through a drab contest.

Mathys Tel, 6.5

Timed his run perfectly for the late Spurs goal.

Manchester United Player Ratings

Senne Lammens, 8

Strong late save from Romero.

Matthijs de Ligt, 6.5

Solid defensive work and a crucial equaliser.

Harry Maguire, 7

Enjoyed the physical duel.

Luke Shaw, 7

Used experience to guide the back line.

Noussair Mazraoui, 6

Disciplined defensively.

Casemiro, 6.5

Influenced the first half battle.

Bruno Fernandes, 6.5

Worked hard without dictating tempo.

Patrick Dorgu, 6

Consistent defensive contribution.

Amad Diallo, 7.5

United’s most dangerous outlet and creator of the opener.

Bryan Mbeumo, 7

Took his goal with authority.

Matheus Cunha, 6

Industrious but limited impact.

Benjamin Sesko, 6

Forced off through injury.

Mason Mount, 6

Tried to play runners into space.

Manuel Ugarte, 6

Attempted to control pace late on.

Leny Yoro, 6

Physical battle with Richarlison.

Tottenham Consider Ivan Toney Move As January Window Looms

Tottenham’s search for a decisive striker has accelerated and with a second major source now confirming their information, the prospect of Ivan Toney returning to the Premier League in January has gained significant traction. The club’s current attacking return, or lack of it, underscores why such a move is being explored with urgency.

Spurs are operating without a clear focal point. Their top scorer so far is centre back Micky van de Ven with six goals in all competitions, a statistic that speaks volumes about the imbalance in their forward line. Randal Kolo Muani has yet to find the net on loan, Dominic Solanke is hampered by an ankle issue, Mathys Tel remains raw, and Richarlison continues to fluctuate.

TEAMtalk revealed earlier this week that Thomas Frank has already held direct talks with Toney, a detail later echoed by talkSPORT. As the report stated, Frank would be open to bringing him back to the Premier League and the player is receptive. Spurs, according to TEAMtalk sources, are currently leading the race.

Toney Dynamics And Tottenham’s Striking Puzzle

The strongest supporting view came from talkSPORT’s chief reporter, Alex Crook, who told the station, “I keep coming back to Ivan Toney for Tottenham. You look at what he did with Thomas Frank at Brentford. I think he’d like to come back to the Premier League, obviously financially it might be a difficult deal, but that just looks a perfect fit to me for Spurs either in January or next summer.”

Toney scored 20 Premier League goals in his final season under Frank at Brentford, a period that showcased his power, movement, and penalty box instinct. His move to Al Ahli in the summer of 2024 offered financial benefits, but the competitive drop off has clearly impacted his international prospects. His omission from Thomas Tuchel’s latest England squad is an important detail. Spurs will know that Toney has strong incentive to come back to England if he wants to secure a World Cup spot.

Market Realities And Viable Routes

TEAMtalk sources have indicated that Spurs regard Toney as the ideal short term solution, although a permanent move mid season is unlikely. A January fee of £30 million has discouraged buyers and the structure of his Saudi contract complicates any early termination due to a significant tax liability.

The most credible arrangement is a loan or a loan with obligation to buy, a structure that protects Al Ahli’s investment yet offers Spurs the opportunity to bring in a proven striker. It also helps Tottenham prepare for potential exits, particularly Richarlison, who faces an uncertain future amid interest from Everton.

There are further squad developments. Spurs have added a centre back with a similar profile to Van de Ven to their shortlist and are monitoring Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes, who could move if his side face relegation pressure. Academy forward Dane Scarlett is also expected to be integrated more frequently as the club plans ahead.

Frank, Spurs And How This Might Unfold

The appeal of a Frank and Toney reunion is clear. Their tactical chemistry was proven at Brentford, and Spurs would gain a striker who understands both the tempo and physicality of Premier League football. Toney, meanwhile, gains a platform to revive his international ambition.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Tottenham, this report reflects both hope and hesitation. The squad has reached a stage where the lack of a reliable, clinical striker is affecting momentum and results, and many fans believe pursuing Ivan Toney is not only logical but overdue. Spurs have changed under the current regime, becoming more aggressive in possession and more structured in transition, yet the absence of a dependable finisher continues to stand out. Supporters would argue that Toney, with his Premier League pedigree and physical presence, fits the profile of a number nine who can immediately elevate the attack.

Fans remember clearly how ruthless Toney was with Brentford, and the thought of him working within Tottenham’s current system generates cautious optimism. There is acknowledgement that the financial and contractual complications are real, but supporters tend to focus on the outcome rather than the negotiation details. The idea of a loan with obligation to buy appears sensible and allows Spurs to assess how quickly he adapts.

Some Tottenham fans are sceptical about taking a player who has been outside Europe’s top leagues, but the consensus is that his hunger to return to England and reclaim a place in the national team could drive him to deliver quickly. There is also awareness that Richarlison’s inconsistency continues to hold the team back, and this move could be the moment Spurs reset their forward line properly.

The overarching opinion is simple. Spurs need a striker with presence, maturity and proven output, and Toney fits that template far better than the current options. The feeling is one of cautious expectation, curiosity about the loan structure, and a strong belief that if this deal happens, Spurs could shift up a gear in the second half of the season.

Manchester United travel to north London for a high-profile meeting with Tottenham, a fixture that has often shaped momentum in Premier League campaigns. The spotlight turns to Ruben Amorim, who considers subtle structural changes as he searches for another statement win away from home. With pressure building and both sides targeting Champions League qualification, every selection choice carries weight.

Martinez Question Highlights Man United Defensive Dilemma

Lisandro Martinez has returned to full training after recovering from the ACL injury sustained in the defeat to Crystal Palace earlier this year. Despite optimism around his progress, Amorim opted against selecting him for the meeting with Nottingham Forest. The manager explained his reasoning clearly.

“He (Martinez) wants to go to this one [Forest], he isn’t going to this one,” Amorim said before the Forest match. “He’s going to need time. He has started training with us. Slowly he is going to get better.”

The defender now has an uninterrupted week of sessions behind him, which increases the likelihood of him joining the Man United squad for the trip to Tottenham. Even so, a starting role appears improbable due to the need for managed reintegration at such a demanding venue.

Amorim must also assess Harry Maguire, who has returned to fitness and missed the win over Brighton before being named on the bench against Forest. His aerial presence could be crucial given Tottenham’s set piece threat, and his late winner against Liverpool last month remains fresh in supporters’ minds.

Tactical Considerations for Tottenham Test

Senne Lammens is expected to retain his place in goal, while Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes are set to continue as the central midfield pairing. Stability in the spine has been a theme of Amorim’s recent selections, although the attacking structure could see a deliberate shift.

There is a strong chance of a return to the fluid, forward-thinking system that delivered a memorable victory at Anfield. That approach used mobility over physicality, with no recognised centre forward. Matheus Cunha may be preferred as a false nine, offering versatility and combination play, while Benjamin Sesko could drop to the bench.

Bryan Mbeumo and Mason Mount are candidates for dual creator roles, operating between the lines to disrupt Tottenham’s defensive shape. Their movement will be vital against a Spurs side that often commits numbers forward and leaves transitional space.

Predicted Man United XI for Tottenham

Lammens, Yoro, De Ligt, Shaw, Amad, Casemiro, Fernandes, Dalot, Mbeumo, Cunha, Mount.

Tottenham Prepare For Man United Test With Key Fitness Calls

Tottenham approach their Premier League meeting with Man United in a period that feels both promising and precarious, shaped by sharp midweek form and uncertainty around influential players. The focus inevitably sits on Mohammed Kudus, who remains central to the tactical fabric of this Spurs side and whose availability could define how they approach Saturday at 12.30pm GMT.

Kudus Fitness Call Shapes Attacking Plan

Kudus missed the Champions League win over Copenhagen because of a knock, and while the winger himself admitted the issue was “getting better”, clarity around his status remains elusive. Thomas Frank offered little certainty on Friday when he stated: “Kudus is touch and go for tomorrow, we’ll see.” For a player who has produced more Premier League assists than anyone this season, that level of doubt is a significant subplot in the build up to Tottenham vs Man United.

Should he miss out, the logic points toward Brennan Johnson and Wilson Odobert retaining their places after both scored in midweek. Johnson’s direct running and Odobert’s composure in tight spaces gave Copenhagen persistent problems, and there is trust that the pair can reproduce that impact domestically.

Midfield and Full Back Roles Under Discussion

Xavi Simons delivered a lively showing in the No10 role on Tuesday and is expected to operate there again. His ability to receive between the lines, drive at centre backs and link with runners offers Tottenham a crucial connector in transitions. Behind him, Joao Palhinha should return to the starting lineup, a move that restores bite and structure in front of the back four.

Destiny Udogie also impressed in Europe and is pushing strongly to keep his starting place. Should the left back get the nod again, Djed Spence would be reduced to the bench, with the technical and positional balance of the unit likely guiding Frank’s call.

Kolo Muani Leads The Line

In attack, Randal Kolo Muani looks set to continue as the spearhead of the front line. After starting the last two fixtures and playing seventy minutes in each, he now appears sharp enough to hold off the challenge from Richarlison. His movement when dropping short and spinning behind offers versatility that Frank values in matches of high tactical tension, particularly one against a Man United side that has fluctuated in defensive structure this season.

Lucas Bergvall remains unavailable due to concussion protocols, and Dominic Solanke is not yet close to a return following ankle surgery. The broader injury list also includes Davies, Dragusin, Takai, Gray, Maddison and Bissouma.

Predicted Tottenham XI

Vicario, Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Udogie, Palhinha, Bentancur, Kudus, Simons, Odobert, Kolo Muani.

Tottenham Hotspur Eyeing Ambitious Move to Sign Real Madrid Forward

Tottenham Hotspur are positioning themselves for one of their most assertive recruitment periods in years, with planning already well underway across the winter and summer windows. The TeamTalk report sets out a clear picture of a club that senses momentum and intends to maximise it. Under Thomas Frank, Spurs have begun the campaign with authority in both the Premier League and Champions League and the hierarchy appear aligned on capitalising while the platform is strong.

Transfer Targets Under Consideration

Wide attacking reinforcements remain the primary focus and Real Madrid forward Rodrygo is firmly on the list. TeamTalk reports that the Brazilian has been monitored for some time and that other Premier League clubs, including Manchester City and Liverpool, have maintained interest. As stated by Dean Jones, “I already reported about the wide attacking targets being an area of priority, and that absolutely is the case, and they have been drawing up names over the past two weeks.”

The attraction is obvious. Rodrygo is entering his peak years and has repeatedly demonstrated the versatility and technical precision that Premier League sides covet. The suggestion that he “is thought to be keen on testing himself in the Premier League” strengthens the sense that this may be a genuine opening for Spurs, although competition will be intense should Madrid indicate any willingness to sell.

Alongside Rodrygo, Juventus forward Kenan Yildiz has been assessed. At 20 he represents a different opportunity profile, one rooted in long term upside, although strong interest from Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea, as reported by TeamTalk, establishes a crowded market. Much depends on Juventus and their negotiations over a new contract. Failure to secure an extension will trigger immediate movement from England.

Investment Strategy and Internal Expectations

The message from within the club is emphatic. New investment has recalibrated Tottenham’s transfer posture and expectations internally are rising. Jones notes, “I really think Spurs will seek to make some of the biggest signings in their history.” This is a bold assessment but it aligns with the broader tone outlined in the TeamTalk piece, where sources suggest that “big additions are likely.”

There is nuance, however. January remains a difficult window for elite-level acquisitions and Spurs may need to balance ambition with pragmatism. Jones adds, “It is a difficult window to make a statement signing, but I would expect us to get a good idea soon of their intent in terms of where they are going to take the club in 2026 and beyond.” Spurs are therefore preparing for both possibilities, with a willingness to strike mid-season but an acceptance that the defining moves of this rebuild may arrive in the summer.

Outlook for 2026 and Beyond

What is clear from the reporting is that Tottenham intend to reshape their forward options with genuine top tier quality. Whether that materialises as early as January or is delayed until the next major window will depend on availability, valuation and the outcome of contract developments abroad. As TeamTalk frame it, this “is a very exciting time for Tottenham fans” and the sense of transformation is growing.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From the standpoint of an optimistic Tottenham Hotspur supporter, this report lands perfectly with the energy around the club at present. Thomas Frank has stabilised the squad quickly, the team look confident and there is finally a sense that Tottenham are prepared to push aggressively in the market rather than settle for incremental improvement.

The idea of Rodrygo in a Spurs shirt will ignite excitement across the fanbase. He has Champions League pedigree, he fits the Premier League profile and he would elevate the frontline immediately. Supporters will also appreciate that this is not speculation for speculation’s sake. TeamTalk’s suggestion that Spurs “will seek to make some of the biggest signings in their history” feels like a signal, not an exaggeration. This is the type of ambition fans have wanted ENIC to show for years.

Yildiz is another fascinating option. The thought of Spurs beating Liverpool, Arsenal or Chelsea to a young talent of that calibre would represent a powerful statement about the club’s status under Frank. Tottenham’s recruitment structure has been strong recently and moving early on players before their valuations explode is exactly the approach supporters want to see.

There will naturally be nerves about January. Fans know that winter windows can stall and they will hope the club do not lose momentum by waiting too long. But the intention is there and the squad is progressing on the pitch. For the first time in a while there is belief that Spurs could build something substantial, with genuine star power, and compete consistently at the highest level.

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Rodrygo Situation Sparks January Interest

Real Madrid’s internal dynamics have shifted in recent months, and one player now beginning to feel the impact is Rodrygo. Give Me Sport reported that Tottenham Hotspur have been alerted to the Brazilian’s possible availability in January, with intermediaries sounding out clubs after a summer of existing interest. It is understood that Rodrygo is again weighing up his future in Spain, a development that has placed Spurs and several European sides on standby.

Rodrygo’s Reduced Role Under Xabi Alonso

The winger was persuaded to remain and compete for minutes under Xabi Alonso, however the opportunities have not materialised. Rodrygo has made only three starts this season and has totalled 327 minutes across all competitions. He finds himself behind Franco Mastantuono and Arda Guler in the current hierarchy, an unexpected shift given his standing within the squad. The player reportedly accepts that his long term prospects may lie elsewhere. As Give Me Sport relayed from Graeme Bailey, “Tottenham have been alerted to the 24 year old’s potential availability in January via intermediaries.”

There is no suggestion that Alonso is pushing Rodrygo out, but his role is unlikely to change. One source described the coach as open to keeping him, but without altering his place in the rotation. Those close to the situation indicate that Rodrygo is weighing up the implications of another season with limited minutes.

Tottenham’s Longstanding Interest

Tottenham explored the possibility of signing the Brazilian during the summer window and their recruitment department remains attentive. One intermediary characterised the recent outreach as “a reminder that opportunities can move quickly in January.” With Rodrygo under contract until 2028 and on £345,000 per week, any movement would be complex, although not impossible. His record of 281 appearances, 68 goals and 53 assists reflects elite pedigree, reinforced by Luka Modric previously calling him a “world class superstar.”

Market Implications for January

Rodrygo’s lack of goals this season, including a run stretching back to the 2-1 Champions League victory over Atletico in March, has not deterred interest. His return of 14 goals and 11 assists last year underlines the output he can produce with continuity. Tottenham strengthened in forward areas with Xavi Simons, Mohammed Kudus, Mathys Tel and Randal Kolo Muani, although Simons has struggled to adapt so far. The club’s strong Premier League position could encourage further ambition in January.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Tottenham supporter’s perspective, this report generates equal measures of intrigue and caution. Rodrygo is a top level talent, proven at the highest stage and still only 24. Opportunities to sign a player with Champions League pedigree, multiple La Liga titles and a long term ceiling of genuine star quality rarely surface mid season. Spurs should not ignore such developments, particularly given the lack of consistent productivity from certain summer signings.

At the same time, fans would wonder where Rodrygo fits within Thomas Frank’s system. The forward line is already crowded and several players are still settling. Bringing in a player on significant wages could create pressure on existing starters. Some supporters might argue that Spurs need stability more urgently than another marquee attacker. Others would counter that elite clubs act when quality becomes available rather than waiting for ideal conditions.

There is also the wider question of whether Real Madrid truly intend to sell in January. Supporters have seen similar stories over the years where interest is real but timing is not. If intermediaries are initiating contact rather than Madrid formally authorising discussions, Spurs fans would understandably hold a degree of scepticism.

Overall, the reaction among Tottenham supporters would be one of excitement tempered by realism. Rodrygo represents an upgrade on paper, he offers Champions League experience and he carries the pedigree of a player who has delivered in defining moments for a major European club. If the opportunity is genuine, supporters would expect the club to explore it thoroughly. The coming weeks could reveal whether Spurs are preparing to move decisively or simply monitoring a situation that may evolve more fully next summer.

Rising Profile of Konstantinos Koulierakis

After joining Wolfsburg from PAOK in 2024, Koulierakis has wasted little time adapting to Germany’s top flight. Despite Wolfsburg’s mixed form this season – currently sitting in the lower half of the Bundesliga table – the Greek international has stood out with his composure, consistency and defensive maturity beyond his years.

A mainstay in the Wolfsburg backline, Koulierakis has also earned growing responsibility within the Greece national team. His blend of tactical awareness and left-footed balance makes him an increasingly rare and valuable profile for top European sides.

Tottenham’s Search for Defensive Reinforcement

Tottenham are understood to be exploring several options ahead of January as Thomas Frank seeks to strengthen his defensive unit. With Micky van de Ven still regarded as first-choice on the left of central defence, Spurs are keen to add competition and cover in that position.

Current alternatives, including Kevin Danso and Radu Dragusin, offer depth but lack the natural left-sided profile that Frank favours in his system. Koulierakis fits that mould perfectly, and his aerial dominance and strong positional sense have impressed scouts across multiple matches this season.

According to sources close to the club, Spurs view Koulierakis as a long-term project rather than a short-term fix – someone who could develop into a cornerstone of their defensive structure. His ability to carry the ball forward and distribute accurately under pressure is seen as an ideal fit for Frank’s progressive style of play.

Liverpool’s Interest and Broader European Attention

Liverpool, meanwhile, have also maintained a close watch on Koulierakis. Under Arne Slot, the Reds are evolving their defensive dynamics, placing greater emphasis on ball-playing centre-backs capable of contributing to structured build-up play.

With the Merseyside club continuing to balance experience and youth across their backline, Koulierakis’ profile represents an attractive blend of potential and readiness. The player’s left-footed versatility could offer natural balance alongside the likes of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté, particularly as Liverpool look to plan for the next phase of their defensive evolution.

It is understood that other European clubs are also monitoring Koulierakis, though both Tottenham and Liverpool appear to be leading the early stages of interest. Wolfsburg, having previously sold key defenders such as Van de Ven and Maxence Lacroix, will be wary of another major departure but could face significant pressure should formal offers arrive.

Defensive Metrics That Highlight Koulierakis’ Appeal

A comparison with Van de Ven’s final season at Wolfsburg offers useful perspective. While Van de Ven was celebrated for his speed and distribution, Koulierakis has demonstrated superiority in several key defensive areas.

The Greek defender has registered more aerial duels won (60 to 36), more clearances (139 to 102), and more interceptions (33 to 26) across comparable minutes played. Though not quite as quick across the ground, Koulierakis compensates with exceptional timing and strength in defensive duels.

Equally notable is his long-passing range: he attempted 256 long balls last season with an accuracy rate approaching 44 percent, underscoring his comfort in initiating attacks from deep. These qualities, combined with his natural left-footedness, make him a sought-after option for clubs who prioritise technical defenders in possession-heavy systems.

What Comes Next

As January approaches, Wolfsburg are expected to resist early approaches unless a substantial offer materialises. Both Tottenham and Liverpool are weighing their priorities carefully, balancing immediate squad needs with long-term planning.

For Koulierakis, the next few months could define the next stage of an already impressive career trajectory. Whether his future lies in North London, Merseyside, or beyond, the young Greek has firmly established himself on the radar of Europe’s elite.

Rodrygo Considers Real Madrid Exit Amid Arsenal Interest

Reports from Spain suggest that Rodrygo is weighing up his future at Real Madrid ahead of the January transfer window. The 24-year-old Brazilian forward is said to be frustrated with his limited playing time under Xabi Alonso and is now open to a potential move away from the Bernabéu, with Arsenal and Tottenham both monitoring the situation closely.

Rodrygo’s Growing Frustration in Madrid

Rodrygo’s career in the Spanish capital has been marked by flashes of brilliance but also long spells of inconsistency and competition for minutes. So far this season, he has managed just 327 minutes across 11 matches, a figure that underlines his struggle to secure a regular starting role. With Arda Güler and Franco Mastantuono emerging as preferred options for Alonso in recent weeks, Rodrygo’s prospects have only grown dimmer.

The forward’s concerns are not limited to club football. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, Rodrygo is determined to play regularly to maintain his place in Brazil’s national team. For him, a mid-season transfer could be a strategic decision rather than an emotional one — a calculated move to preserve his international ambitions while finding a new project that suits his playing style.

Arsenal’s Opportunity in the Market

Arsenal are believed to be one of the clubs most attentive to Rodrygo’s situation. Mikel Arteta’s side are in search of greater depth and unpredictability on the wings, and the Brazilian’s blend of pace, flair and technical quality fits neatly into the club’s attacking model.

Sources close to the situation indicate that Arsenal view Rodrygo as a player capable of adding both creativity and European experience to a young, evolving side. The London club has made it clear they will explore the feasibility of a deal in January should Madrid open the door to negotiations.

Tottenham Maintain Watchful Interest

Tottenham Hotspur are another Premier League club monitoring Rodrygo’s circumstances. Under Thomas Frank, Spurs have shown ambition to strengthen their attack with versatile wide players who can operate across multiple roles. Rodrygo’s ability to drift inside and contribute centrally makes him a particularly attractive target.

While Arsenal may have taken early steps in exploring the player’s availability, Tottenham are reportedly prepared to enter discussions if Real Madrid indicate a willingness to sell. Both clubs are aware that Madrid’s stance will be key — the Spanish giants are not keen to lose depth in attack without a clear replacement lined up.

Madrid’s Delicate Balancing Act

For Real Madrid, Rodrygo’s potential departure presents a difficult balancing act. The Brazilian remains highly valued within the club, both as a squad option and as a player with resale potential. However, keeping a frustrated player could risk unsettling the dressing room.

Xabi Alonso’s challenge lies in managing a squad full of attacking talent while ensuring morale remains high. Rodrygo’s discontent may prompt internal discussions in the coming weeks, especially if his minutes do not improve. Madrid’s leadership understands the financial implications too — Rodrygo still commands a high market value, which could make a January exit financially tempting.

As things stand, Rodrygo faces a pivotal decision in his career. Remaining at Real Madrid would mean continuing to fight for opportunities in an ultra-competitive environment, while a move to Arsenal or Tottenham could offer the chance for consistent starts and renewed confidence. What’s clear is that his situation is drawing serious interest from England, and the next two months could define the next chapter of his professional journey.