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Tottenham have been encouraged in their pursuit of Jan Paul van Hecke, with Brighton likely to consider summer bids.

According to Football Insider, Jan Paul van Hecke could leave Brighton next summer, which may encourage Tottenham to keep track of the player’s future. Spurs are indeed interested in the Dutch defender, and could pursue a deal next summer if things go to plan.

Tottenham are set to make some additions in the next few windows that enable them to build a competitive squad. The long-term vision for the club is to challenge for the Premier League title with the current top clubs, as well as consistently participate in the Champions League.

For the above to materialise, they would need a competitive squad, and are already targeting some players that they feel would improve their team. Jan Paul van Hecke is a big target for Tottenham, who had been thinking about a January approach for the 25-year-old star earlier, but that may seem a bit difficult.

Brighton are uninterested in January bids for Van Hecke, as manager Fabian Hurzelar does not want disruptions in mid-season. It has been reported that Van Hecke’s contract talks had stalled back in the summer, and it appears there’s no new development on that front.

As things stand, Brighton would consider a summer sale of the 25-year-old star if he fails to renew, considering his current contract ends in 2027. Hence, keeping the Dutchman beyond next summer without future assurances would be losing out on a potential fee for him, as Tottenham could be encouraged by his situation.

Tottenham set to pursue Van Hecke next year?

Tottenham could maintain their interest in Van Hecke even if they cannot land the Dutchman in January. Keeping in mind the long-term view of the club, the Brighton star could be a solid addition for their defence for many years to come, as Spurs will be open to paying a reasonable fee for the Premier League-experienced defender.

There’s a big possibility that some of the other top clubs will also enter the race when things become clearer over the 25-year-old star’s future. Hence, the onus is on Tottenham to begin talks with his camp and do the groundwork ahead of a potential summer move for the Brighton star.

Sean Dyche faces a tough test of character as his Nottingham Forest side hosts a resurgent Tottenham outfit at the City Ground.

Nottingham Forest continued their patchy form, where they have been below par in the Premier League but rising in stature in the Europa League, ahead of the visit of Tottenham Hotspur this weekend. Sean Dyche’s men put together an unbeaten run of five games a few weeks back, only to lose two of their last four, with both those defeats coming in the top flight.

Last weekend, they were dispatched by Everton with a 3-0 scoreline, but they did win in the midweek Europa League clash with FC Utrecht away from home. Back to domestic action, and Nottingham Forest are threading very close to the relegation zone, with only a two-point advantage keeping them over 18th-placed West Ham United.

Those two teams are probably the current favourites to get out of the drop zone eventually. But the current form that Leeds United find themselves in is making life difficult for them, especially against Forest. Hence, Dyche needs a big result as Tottenham come visiting the City Ground for their encounter on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Spurs ended a dreadful November to bring some cheer in December, as Thomas Frank eyes three consecutive victories for the first time as Tottenham manager. After enduring three consecutive defeats to Arsenal, PSG, and Fulham, the North Londoners have gone on to remain unbeaten in their next three across all competitions.

A point at St. James’ Park after the defeat to Fulham was crucial to this current run Spurs are on, and Frank has led them to consecutive victories since against Brentford and Slavia Praha. The Tottenham boss will want another positive result under his belt to help the team climb out of their position in the bottom half of the Premier League table.

Getting a win away against Nottingham Forest would be imperative in the context of building momentum ahead of a few tough games next for Tottenham. Spurs face Liverpool and Crystal Palace after this, and it is important to build on their recent resurgence and climb up the standings.

Team News & Tactics

Nottingham Forest

Both teams have a long list of problems, and for Nottingham Forest, they might have to make do without at least seven of their first-team starters, including keeper Matz Sels. The towering stopper is widely expected to be back in contention alongside other doubtful stars like Taiwo Awoniyi.

Ryan Yates suffered a thigh problem in the loss to Everton, and he will miss out, while Ola Aina, Chris Wood, and Angus Gunn are also out of this fixture. Murillo is also a doubt, and if he not available, then Morato should deputise for the Brazilian alongside Nikola Milenkovic at the back.

Nicola Savona and Neco Williams are the full-back preferences for Dyche, with Ibrahim Sangare and Elliot Anderson lining up in the middle of the park. Omari Hutchinson should start on the left flank ahead of Callum Hudson-Odoi, while Morgan Gibbs-White, Dan Ndoye and Igor Jesus should complete the attacking setup for Forest.

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Sels; Savona, Milenkovic, Murillo, Williams; Sangare, Anderson; Ndoye, Gibbs-White, Hutchinson; Jesus

Tottenham Hotspur

Spurs remain without long-term absentees Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison for yet another match week, with the latter not expected to play at all this season. Dominic Solanke, Destiny Udogie, and Yves Bissouma are the other players missing out.

Brennan Johnson, who was recently linked with a move to Crystal Palace, is still nursing a knock, which could make him doubtful for the visit to his former club. Even if he can shake off the issue, Randal Kolo Muani is ahead of him in the pecking order, and the Frenchman is expected to start in a wide role on the left.

Rodrigo Bentancur and Archie Gray are set to lead the midfield, with Mohammed Kudus and Xavi Simons set to complete the attacking setup for Spurs, while Richarlison leads the line for Frank’s side.

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Vicario; Porro, Romero, van de Ven, Spence; Bentancur, Gray; Kudus, Simons, Kolo Muani; Richarlison

Key Stats

Nottingham Forest have lost their last two games in the Premier League.

Nottingham Forest are just two points above 18th-placed West Ham United in the table.

Tottenham are unbeaten in their last three games across all competitions.

Spurs have the joint-best away record in the Premier League.

Only bottom side Wolves (9) have failed to score in more different Premier League games than Nottingham Forest this season (8). However, when they do manage to find the net, Forest are unbeaten in their last 11 league games (W6 D5) since a 2-1 loss to Aston Villa in April.

Player to Watch

Mohammed Kudus

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Kudus was widely tipped to lead the Tottenham attack when he transferred from West Ham United in the summer, but things have been a bit slow but fruitful. A goal against Fulham and an assist against Newcastle United have added value for the Ghanaian attacker’s profile, and he is now widely tipped to get going with consistency.

A solid performance against Nottingham Forest will help him set a benchmark for his teammates and help Thomas Frank’s side gain the necessary momentum after a few good results under their belt.

Kudus will have to take his position seriously, as he could become Tottenham’s main man in the attack for the remainder of the season, but for that, he needs to perform with top-notch displays, particularly against teams closer to relegation.

Prediction

Nottingham Forest 1-2 Tottenham Hotspur

Nottingham Forest have been dodgy with their performances of late, and there are no signs of it changing anytime soon. Given the pressures of dealing with the Premier League and European campaigns, Sean Dyche is still on the learning curve in that regard, as he is not widely experienced with playing in multiple competitions at the same time.

Forest have the capacity to hurt Spurs, but the result might go against them. Spurs are in a good vein of form, and Thomas Frank has managed to get some level of rhythm out of his side recently. Given the momentum Spurs have at the moment, this trip to Forest should yield three points, as the North Londoners will be able to climb up into the top half of the standings after the weekend.

Tottenham Hotspur will reportedly compete with Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool in the race to sign 20-year-old Turkish international Kenan Yildiz from Juventus.

According to a report by TEAMtalk, Kenan Yildiz is the subject of interest of Tottenham Hotspur. Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool are also keen on signing the Juventus attacking sensation. However, the three Premier League bigwigs will face stiff competition from the North London outfit for his signature amid the 20-year-old prospect’s stalling contract talks with the Serie A club.

The rise and rise of Kenan Yildiz

Kenan Yildiz has established himself as one of the best players in Serie A since breaking into the first-team squad at Juventus. The Turk spent most of his formative years in Germany but graduated from the youth division at Juventus after the Bianconeri signed him from Bayern Munich in July 2022.

The Turkish international made his senior bow for Juventus at the onset of the 2023/24 season, and he has made considerable progress since then. Yildiz has made over 100 appearances thus far for the Serie A club while chipping in with 22 goals and 17 assists. Meanwhile, the 20-year-old attacker’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several bigwigs, including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Tottenham.

A man in demand

Liverpool can do with a versatile attacker who provides more creativity in the final third. With Yildiz also a capable goalscorer, he can be a top-class addition to the first-team squad at the Merseyside club. So, Liverpool’s links with the Juventus whizkid make sense. As for Tottenham Hotspur, the Lilywhites are yet to fill Son Heung-min’s void since his summer departure. Yildiz is thus an option worth considering.

Meanwhile, Chelsea’s interest in Kenan Yildiz makes sense. The Blues are combing the market for a versatile attacker amid uncertainties surrounding Facundo Buonanotte’s long-term future. The West London club did not include a purchase option in the loan agreement with Brighton & Hove Albion. So, Yildiz has emerged as a target for Chelsea.

As for Arsenal, the North London club wanted to sign Kenan Yildiz in the summer transfer window, but the deal failed to materialise. The continued interest is understandable, even though Mikel Arteta has a stacked offensive unit. However, with Leandro Trossard facing an uncertain future at the Emirates, Arsenal must land a replacement from the market.

While Tottenham chased Ademola Lookman for a long time, they have identified Yildiz and Rodrygo as their top attacking targets. It will be interesting to see if they beat Arsenal, Chelsea, and Liverpool to the 20-year-old Turkish international’s signature amid his stalling contract talks with Juventus.

Tottenham have entered the frame for Jean-Philippe Mateta with a view to making an offer in January and taking advantage of his contract situation.

According to Football Insider, Tottenham are in the frame to make their interest in Jean-Philippe Mateta known. Crystal Palace are struggling to get a contract renewal with the French striker in place, as Spurs are eager to take advantage of the situation to bring the attacker to North London.

Jean-Philippe Mateta’s situation would have surely alerted a few teams keen on signing the striker from the summer window. Back then, Crystal Palace were adamant about keeping him, while the French striker did not force the issue of leaving, as contract talks over at Selhurst Park had hit a standstill.

Palace could consider a sale if the talks remained stalled, but there’s no clarity on whether they are willing to consider offers in January. The winter window might be the best time to get the best value for the 28-year-old Crystal Palace mainstay, as the club may have to make a stern decision.

Mateta himself is open to a new chapter and furthering his career elsewhere after being labelled as a late bloomer of sorts. He has been sensational for Palace and a crucial performer under Oliver Glasner, meaning losing him would be a big blow, especially for a knocked-down price.

Tottenham are the latest to enter the frame for Mateta, as Thomas Frank continues to search for a new striker option ahead of the January window. Spurs have the financial capacity to make an enticing offer, as well as table an attractive contract for the 28-year-old Crystal Palace mainstay to take note.

Tottenham to sign Jean-Philippe Mateta?

Tottenham could make a case in the race, as they are currently exploring a host of options in the market. The potential arrival of Mateta might allow Spurs to offload the inconsistent Richarlison amid interest from many clubs, including Everton.

Spurs could be an attractive option for Mateta to consider, especially with Champions League football on offer, although any move might also depend on the projections of where they might finish this season. Overall, Mateta’s profile would suit Tottenham, while all eyes will be on how much Crystal Palace might want for him, if at all they are open to a January sale.

Tottenham could plot a £40 million move for Jan Paul van Hecke in future windows as Brighton are unlikely to entertain offers in January.

According to Team Talk, Jan Paul van Hecke is a reported target for Tottenham ahead of future windows. Spurs are eager to bring in a quality defender to their squad, with the Dutchman being targeted in a £40 million move, either in January or next summer, as Brighton are unlikely to sanction a move next month.

The January window does bring about opportunities to a few clubs but tensions for others, especially those who are shielding their prized assets. In Brighton’s case, they have a talented squad, with Fabian Hurzelar eager to keep hold of most stars, but at times, things may not be in his or the club’s power.

The Seagulls have shown plenty of resilience in the market before, and could prove a hard customer for buying clubs to negotiate their way through. Brighton are now sweating over key defender Jan Paul van Hecke’s future, with the Dutchman attracting the interest of Tottenham.

Spurs are eager to bolster their backline with a new centre-back, with Van Hecke perfect for their plans moving forward. The ideal time that Thomas Frank would want this defender is in the January window, but there are big challenges ahead in luring top talents next month.

For instance, they are facing competition in the race for Juventus’ Gleison Bremer, while there are some more names on their list. In Van Hecke’s case, they could exploit his contractual situation, given earlier reports stated the Dutchman was stalling on talks for a new deal.

Could Brighton sell Jan Paul van Hecke?

Tottenham are now planning a £40 million bid for Van Hecke, either in January or next summer, as they remain intent on landing the Dutch international. Brighton are unlikely to entertain January bids for the defender, given how important he has been to their plans so far, and will be crucial if the Seagulls were to challenge for a European spot.

The Seagulls and Hurzelar certainly want Van Hecke to commit his future to the club, but with just over 18 months left on his deal, Brighton might consider a sale in the summer. Whether the price Spurs are thinking for the £40 million-rated Dutch international will suffice remains the question, but that seems reasonable for a player of his quality with a year left on his contract in the summer.

Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United are reportedly set to battle it out for Parma sensation Mateo Pellegrino.

Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United have joined a growing list of European clubs monitoring Parma striker Mateo Pellegrino, as interest in the Argentine forward intensifies ahead of the January transfer window. The 24-year-old has rapidly become one of Serie A’s most intriguing breakout performers, drawing attention with his blend of physical presence, technical security, and tactical maturity.

Pellegrino’s profile rose significantly during Parma’s recent match against AC Milan, where he struck the post, repeatedly troubled the Rossoneri defence, and outshone high-profile attackers such as Christopher Nkunku. According to Corriere della Sera, Milan directors Geoffrey Moncada and Zlatan Ibrahimovic were impressed with his performance, prompting fresh internal discussions at the club. But they are far from alone in viewing Pellegrino as a compelling long-term investment.

According to Calciomercato, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United are both evaluating striker options for different reasons, yet Pellegrino fits the recruitment vision of each club. Spurs, still seeking attacking depth to support and eventually succeed their current striker options, are attracted to Pellegrino’s ability to occupy defenders, link play, and offer a late-game physical alternative.

For Ange Postecoglou’s successor, Thomas Frank, who favours transitions and aerial threat, the Argentinian attacker offers a stylistic profile that does not currently exist in the squad. West Ham, meanwhile, face uncertainty over the future of their forward line, with long-term considerations around Callum Wilson and continued inconsistency from their attacking alternatives.

Pellegrino’s aggression, hold-up ability, and directness make him a fit for the physical demands of Nuno Espirito Santo’s system, particularly as the Hammers look toward strengthening depth for both domestic and European campaigns.

Parma, however, have made their stance clear. The club rejected a bid from the Premier League last summer, signalling their belief that Pellegrino’s value will rise significantly. Sporting director Francesco Cherubini, who secured the player from Velez Sarsfield for €2 million plus 50% of future resale, views Pellegrino as a long-term asset rather than a short-term cash opportunity. Any club wishing to secure him in January will likely need to submit an offer over €30 million.

The competition for Pellegrino extends beyond England. AS Roma, Atletico Madrid, Villarreal, and Nottingham Forest are all tracking his development, while AC Milan are weighing a move either in January or during the summer window. For now, Pellegrino’s future remains in Parma’s hands, but the Premier League pull, particularly the financial strength of Tottenham and West Ham, cannot be ignored.

Whether January proves the right moment for a bidding war remains to be seen. What is certain is that Pellegrino has positioned himself as one of Europe’s most sought-after emerging forwards, with both London clubs firmly in contention as the chase begins to heat up.

Tottenham, Newcastle United and Everton are all alerted to the possibility of signing Conor Gallagher in January as Atletico Madrid name their price.

According to Fichajes, Conor Gallagher could be made available in January as Atletico Madrid could demand between €50-60 million for the midfielder. Tottenham, Newcastle United and Everton are all vying for the England international’ signature, who could seek a return to England to boost his World Cup chances.

Conor Gallagher is no longer holding a key role in Diego Simeone’s side, as the Argentine manager prefers to use other players instead of the midfielder. There’s a strong possibility of the English star leaving Spain this January, with a return to the Premier League being mooted.

There had been a few clubs interested in the midfielder at the back end of the summer window, as Newcastle United angled a loan deal then. Atletico Madrid might have considered a permanent sale had interested clubs come in with a sizeable offer, as the Spanish side are now ready to sell him for around €50-60 million in January.

Newcastle United are expected to rekindle their interest, while Everton are also ready to take their chances by approaching. David Moyes seeks a quality midfielder who could offer something different from a central position, as the €50-60 million-rated La Liga midfielder could be the right fit for the Toffees.

They could sell the vision of making Gallagher a key star in their project, which might come with the possibility of regular game time. The midfielder is desperate to play regularly and boost his chances of playing for England at the World Cup, which, as things stand, are not looking good.

Why are Atletico Madrid willing to sell Conor Gallagher?

To compete with Newcastle United and Everton, Tottenham are seemingly seen as the front runners for Gallagher, as they too were told to pay a significant fee back in the summer. Thomas Frank could see a place for the €50-60 million-rated La Liga midfielder in his squad, with Gallagher reportedly open to the idea of returning to the Premier League.

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly keen on Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner as a potential replacement for Thomas Frank.

According to a report by TEAMtalk, the future of Thomas Frank is in doubt after Tottenham’s recent performances. Spurs started the season really well, but they have lost their way in recent weeks. Their performances have been quite mediocre, and it would not be a surprise if the manager is shown the door in the near future, with Oliver Glasner emerging as a target.

There is no doubt that Frank is a quality manager, and he has proven himself in the Premier League with Brentford. He will be hoping to hold onto his job and turn things around at the north London club. However, Tottenham are already preparing for alternatives.

Crystal Palace Oliver Glasner manager is on their radar, and it will be interesting to see if they decide to make a move for him in the near future. The Austrian tactician has done an exciting job at Crystal Palace, and he helped them win the FA Cup and the Community Shield recently.

There is no doubt that the 51-year-old is good enough to manage a big club, and he could be an exciting addition for Tottenham. It will be interesting to see if the North London club are already willing to give up on their new man and bring in a replacement.

Thomas Frank deserves more time

Tottenham will need stability to develop as a team. Keeping the Danish manager at the club for the foreseeable future might be a good decision. Thomas Frank’s pedigree is beyond any doubt, and he might need some more time to get the best out of his team.

Tottenham will be hoping to finish in the top four this season and do well in the domestic competitions. It will be interesting to see if Thomas Frank can guide them to a successful season. The North Londoners managed to win the UEFA Europa League last season, and they have backed the new manager with substantial funds.

Liverpool, Manchester City, and Tottenham Hotspur are all rumoured to have made inquiries for Iliman Ndiaye ahead of a future transfer.

According to Foot Mercato, Illiman Ndiaye continued to attract some of the best clubs in the Premier League. Liverpool, Manchester City, and Tottenham have all been rumoured to have made inquiries for the Everton star, and an approach could be anticipated around next summer.

Iliman Ndiaye was considered a flop at Marseille, and Everton got hold of the attacker in the summer of 2024 in a reported €20 million deal. Since then, the Senegal international has grown under David Moyes to become one of the sought after attackers in the Premier League.

Back in the summer, a few top clubs did consider signing him, but Everton were steadfast in their stance about keeping the player. Ndiaye is tied until 2029, which does give the Toffees plenty of power in negotiations if, at all, a club comes calling for his signature.

Now, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Tottenham Hotspur are rumoured to have made enquiries with Iliman Ndiaye’s agent for the availability of the €20 million Everton star. Spurs are definitely interested after missing out on Morgan Rogers, with Thomas Frank eager to add a new attacker to the mix following a difficult start to life at Spurs.

Manchester City are on the same boat, as they may feel the need to offload Savinho despite choosing to keep him back in the summer. There are some high-profile players like Antoine Semenyo being linked as well as Real Madrid’s Rodrygo Goes, although Ndiaye could also be considered as a good enough option to improve their attacking setup.

Will Everton sell Iliman Ndiaye?

Everton are likely to demand a premium price for Ndiaye if they have to sell the Senegalese international, although that could increase even more if Liverpool are in the mix. Dealings between the Merseyside rivals are rather rare, so the likelihood of the Toffees selling one of their best players to their bitter rivals could seem unlikely.

As for the report itself, that those clubs have made inquiries, Iliman Ndiaye himself re-posted the post from the journalist on X, which may suggest these are simply rumours. However, in the future things could change, as there is no doubt that Liverpool, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur could indeed be genuinely interested in signing the Toffees star.

Tottenham rpeortedly see a window to hijack Manchester United’s move for Brighton & Hove Albion midfield sensation Carlos Baleba.

According to a report from Caught Offside, Tottenham have entered the race to sign Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba. The North London club sense an opportunity to beat Manchester United to the signature of the Cameroonian international.

Baleba has only gone from strength to strength in recent seasons. The 21-year-old is widely regarded as one of the best young defensive midfielders in the world. While he has had a dip in form since being linked with the Red Devils during the summer, the interest in his signature still remains very high.

Manchester United remain keen on Carlos Baleba

Multiple top clubs from across Europe have been linked with Baleba, but as per the report, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are the two main teams to watch out for. The Red Devils were keen on signing him ahead of the ongoing campaign in an attempt to bolster their midfield.

However, they did not make any concrete moves to bring Carlos Baleba to Manchester. But the Red Devils retain interest in his services, as they consider him a perfect long-term replacement for Casemiro. The fact that he is a Premier League-proven player makes him a much more reliable option for Manchester United.

While the 21-year-old is still very high on their wishlist, they do have other options like Elliot Anderson and Joao Gomes. If Manchester United back off, Tottenham could go all out to sign the Cameroonian international.

Tottenham sense a golden opportunity

The North London club are closely monitoring Carlos Baleba’s situation, and they sense there could be an opportunity to beat United to his signature if the Red Devils decide to focus on other targets.

Thomas Frank is not pleased with his midfield options. He wants more quality and considers Baleba an ideal fit for his system and the club’s project. As a result, Tottenham would pounce on any opportunity. However, Brighton’s massive €100 million valuation could complicate things for them.

While Baleba has not been in the best of form, the Seagulls consider it to be just a brief blip. They have no intentions of lowering their demands. Brighton are reluctant to let him leave in the winter window, but if the right offer arrives, things could change.