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James Trafford open to Tottenham move irrespective of relegation

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Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford may be open to joining Tottenham Hotspur in the summer transfer window even if they suffer relegation from the Premier League.

According to a report by TEAMtalk, Manchester City shot-stopper James Trafford is the subject of interest from Tottenham Hotspur. The Lilywhites are eager to bolster their first-team squad by signing a goalkeeper ahead of the 2026/27 season amid Guglielmo Vicario’s links with Inter Milan.

The latest report has boosted Tottenham’s prospects, as “there is a belief that Trafford would be open to the move even if Spurs are relegated to the Championship” at the end of the 2025/26 campaign. Trafford’s “desire to be the undisputed first choice” will be the driving force behind his decision.

What has led to James Trafford’s frustrations?

James Trafford rejoined Manchester City from Burnley in a deal worth £27 million last summer after establishing himself as one of the world’s best young goalkeepers in an excellent 2024/25 campaign with Burnley. The 23-year-old played a leading role in an exemplary campaign for the Clarets, keeping the most clean sheets in that season. That compelled Manchester City to re-sign the youngster.

However, Trafford has fallen in the pecking order after Manchester City signed Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain on deadline day of the summer transfer window. The English goalkeeper has managed only 1,260 minutes of game time in 14 appearances thus far for Manchester City. So, a summer exit may be on the cards for him, with Tottenham Hotspur among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.

Move across the Premier League on the cards?

Tottenham Hotspur wanted to sign James Trafford in the winter transfer window, but a deal did not materialise. The continued interest is understandable, as Guglielmo Vicario faces an uncertain future at the North London club amid widespread reports linking him with a move away from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

The Italian shot-stopper is a target for Inter Milan, with the Nerazzurri working on the deal to sign him in the coming months. So, Tottenham must plan for life after Vicario, as Antonin Kinsky has failed to make his mark during his spell at the North London club.

Liverpool, Chelsea, Tottenham hold talks to sign Marcos Senesi

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Badmouth defender Marcos Senesi has been linked with a move away from the club at the end of the season.

The 28-year-old central defender will be out of contract in the summer, and multiple clubs are interested in securing his signature. According to CaughtOffside, Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur have held talks to sign the South American.

Liverpool need more quality and depth in the defensive unit. Ibrahima Konate will be out of contract in the summer and has not yet signed an extension with the club. Joe Gomez has also been linked with an exit. He has struggled for regular opportunities at Liverpool, and he could look to move on in the summer.

Senesi could be an excellent option for them. He is well settled in the Premier League, and he could make an immediate impact.

Marcos Senesi Premier League 2025/26 Stats

Tackles per game: 1.7

Interceptions per game: 1.6

Balls recovered per game: 4.1

Clearances per game: 7.3

Pass accuracy: 77%

Duels won per game: 5.1

Chelsea and Spurs want to sign Senesi

On the other hand, Chelsea need more depth in the defensive unit as well. Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile do not have a future at the London club, and Chelsea needs to bring in an upgrade. Signing the 28-year-old Argentine defender could be ideal for them. The player has consistently shown his ability in the Premier League, and the opportunity to join one of the country’s biggest clubs will be quite exciting for him.

As far as Tottenham is concerned, they need more quality and depth in the defensive unit after a disappointing season. They have been quite poor at the back, and players like Cristian Romero have been linked with the move away. Senesi has the quality to help them improve. It remains to be seen whether Tottenham can convince the player to join the club.

Given his contract situation, he will be available on a free transfer at the end of the season. Signing a player of his quality and experience for free would be a masterstroke for any club.

Tottenham eye summer move for Ian Subiabre

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Tottenham Hotspur are keen on acquiring the services of River Plate attacking sensation Ian Subiabre this summer.

Ian Subiabre’s sensational rise at River Plate hasn’t gone unnoticed. Multiple top clubs from across Europe have taken note, and according to a report from El Intransigente, Tottenham are already plotting a raid on the South American club as they look to sign him ahead of next season.

Subiabre has come up the ranks at some pace. He got promoted to River Plate’s first team at the start of 2024 and hasn’t looked back since. The 19-year-old winger already has 35 first-team appearances and has even contributed towards six goals.

While he prefers playing on the right flank, he is equally comfortable on either flank. The teenager loves to take on defenders, and he certainly has an eye for goal. More importantly, he has shown maturity beyond his age, and his potential suggests he could be the next big thing.

Eduardo Coudet’s arrival at River Plate has been a massive boost for the youngster, as he has been getting more minutes under the 51-year-old. A number of clubs from across Europe are keeping tabs on the teenager, but Tottenham seem to be the most serious suitors at this stage.

Tottenham learn asking price for Subiabre

The North London club have been working on building a team for the long run, and they consider Subiabre a perfect fit for their project. However, securing his services won’t be easy as River Plate have already slapped a massive asking price of €100 million, which is also his release clause.

Having secured significant funds from Franco Mastantuono’s move to Real Madrid (€45 million) and Enzo Fernandez’s switch to Chelsea from Benfica via a sell-on clause, River Plate are now determined to avoid premature departures.

They are well aware of Subiabre’s massive potential and will only negotiate his departure this summer on their terms. Given the massive price tag, it will be interesting to see if Spurs will make a move. A potential transfer could create history in Argentine football and could have global repercussions.

Tottenham, Aston Villa interested in Tarik Muharemovic

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Tottenham and Aston Villa are keen to explore a move for Tarik Muharemovic from Sassuolo, who carries a €30 million price tag.

According to Sport Witness, Tarik Muharemovic is a player of particular interest to two Premier League teams. Tottenham and Aston Villa are currently looking at the Sassuolo star, with a €30 million price tag being mentioned for him to leave the Serie A side.

Defenders are set to be high on the agendas of most clubs ahead of the summer window. A left-footer is more likely to be seen as a premium profile in the current market, as there are many teams in the Premier League looking for a centre-back of that type.

Tottenham and Aston Villa are being mentioned heavily in a report linking them to Sassuolo defender Tarik Muharemovic. The centre-back came to prominence recently after helping Bosnia and Herzegovina qualify for the FIFA World Cup after beating Italy, which has helped garner interest from multiple top teams.

Sassuolo will not stand in his way if he seeks an exit, as a number of Serie A giants are also in the mix. Juventus have a sell-on clause that allows them to buy him for less than his current asking rate. Sassuolo are reportedly demanding €30 million from suitors, and are hoping a bidding war would allow them to command such a price, which would also mean a huge profit on their €5 million investment in the defender.

Tarik Muharemovic to the Premier League?

Tottenham are keen, as they could face problems ahead of the summer with Micky van de Ven linked to a host of teams. They could view the Bosnian centre-back as the replacement for the Dutchman, with the €30 million price tag well within their range.

Luka Vuskovic reaffirms commitment to Tottenham amid exit links

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Luka Vuskovic is currently on loan at Bundesliga club Hamburger SV, and he has been linked with a permanent summer exit from Tottenham Hotspur.

Luka Vuskovic is one of the best young players in Europe, and he has been linked with several high-profile clubs. However, the teenage prospect has now reaffirmed his commitment to Tottenham Hotspur and revealed he has a long-term contract with them. His recent comments about his future will be a huge boost for the North London club, and they will hope to keep him at the club for as long as possible.

He said to Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, “After this season, I’ll be a Tottenham player again. I have a contract there until 2030.”

The Croatian defender has all the attributes to develop into a future star. Tottenham must hold onto players of his quality if they are looking to build a formidable squad for the future.

The 18-year-old has not only impressed with his defensive quality at Hamburg, but also shown he can score important goals (5 in the league). In addition, he is quite impressive on the ball and can drive the team forward with his distribution from the back.

Vuskovic is an elite talent

Vuskovic could develop into a complete defender for Tottenham. It is no surprise that elite clubs are monitoring his progress, and it will not be surprising if they decide to test the resolve of the struggling Premier League club with an offer in the summer.

The Lilywhites are already in crisis, and Cristian Romero has been linked with a summer move away from Tottenham. The 2022 FIFA World Cup winner is an ambitious player looking to join an elite club where he can win major trophies. If he decides to move on, Tottenham will need to replace him properly.

Luka Vuskovic in Bundesliga: 2025/26 stats

Duels won per game: 7.1

Interceptions per game: 1.2

Ball recovered per game: 4.2

Dribbled past per game: 0.2

Clearances per game: 9.1

The Croatian wonderkid could fill the void left by the club captain. Even though he is quite young, Vuskovic has shown he can step up to the challenge and compete at a higher level. Regular football in the Premier League next season could be vital to his development as well. Even though he has been linked with top clubs, continuing at Tottenham for a few seasons could be ideal for his development.

Liverpool, Tottenham, Newcastle United learn Marco Palestra price

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Atalanta are set to place €45 million asking price on Marcos Palestra amid growing Premier League interest.

According to Caught Offside, Marco Palestra will cost at least €45 million as Atalanta are anticipating heavy interest in the summer. Many of the top Italian sides are keen, although it is the Premier League that is seen as the more likely destination, with the likes of Liverpool, Tottenham, and Newcastle United all keen.

Marco Palestra has made a huge impact while on loan at Cagliari this season, as parent club Atalanta anticipates big interest coming their way in the summer. The defender, who plays predominantly as a right-back, can also slot in as a wing-back in different systems, making him all the more valuable.

Atalanta had a €35 million offer from Inter Milan turned down in January due to complications with the loan agreement. However, as things stand, Atalanta are not prepared to accept an offer of that size, and instead want at least €45 million, as there is a rise in Premier League teams keen on the 21-year-old Italian wide man.

Liverpool are keen as they could dip into the Italian market for another defender after signing young Giovanni Leoni last summer. The interest in Palestra is particularly intriguing, signalling they are somewhat dissatisfied with the available options of Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley in the right-back slot.

The €45 million price tag is seen as a significant investment opportunity on the 21-year-old Italian wide man, who could lock down the position for years to come. Liverpool are not alone, as Newcastle United are also keen, while Tottenham are also mentioned as a suitor.

Marco Palestra to the Premier League?

Palestra is also of interest to Tottenham, although any move will depend on their top-flight status. Should they stay afloat, Spurs are planning on revamping their backline and will make a move for Palestra if the conditions are right.

Newcastle United are also keen, as they could angle a move for a new right-back, especially amid speculation surrounding Tino Livramento and Kieran Trippier. However, Liverpool are reportedly seen as the front runners in this chase, as Palestra could be headed to the Premier League next season.

Tottenham told to keep hold of Archie Gray amid Liverpool links

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Author John Wenham has urged Tottenham to keep Archie Gray at the club irrespective of their status next season, amid interest from Liverpool.

Tottenham are in a state of disarray following their form this season, which has brought them closer to the relegation zone than ever. Their most recent league game ended in a terrible home loss against Nottingham Forest, as Spurs are without a win in their last 13 Premier League games.

The arrival of Roberto De Zerbi has sparked some confidence within the fan base and certainly among the squad, with hope that they can stay up. However, should they go down at the end of the campaign, there is a strong chance that Spurs might have to sell some of their first-team players, including young talents like Archie Gray.

Tottenham could be forced to sell Gray if they were relegated and if suitors make an important offer. There are plenty of eyes on the 20-year-old sensation ahead of the summer, with Premier League clubs, Spanish sides, and those from the Bundesliga all keen to pounce on an opportunity should Spurs make him available.

Gray himself is reportedly committed to Spurs, and given that he has a long-term contract, the player is not considering an exit irrespective of what happens in the near future. However, should the pressure mount on Spurs, there is always room for a conversation of that sort, especially now that clubs like Liverpool are reportedly showing an interest.

Author of Tottenham Hotspur News, John Wenham, has now commented on the Gray situation, insisting that his talent should force Spurs to only consider offers north of £70 million. He stated that the club should not even consider selling Gray irrespective of their survival in the top flight, amid interest from Liverpool.

“Since joining the club, he has made 78 appearances and featured in both a Europa League final and Super Cup final.

“He has played for Spurs as a CM, DM, CAM, RB, CB, LB, LM and RM. He only turned 20 last month.

Spurs paid £40m for him, and he is likely to be the club’s Player and Young Player of the Year as well as the Supporters’ and Players’ player.

“Spurs should be looking to build the side around Archie rather than entertain any offers to sell, but I estimate a starting price point would be north of £70m.”

Gray has been growing in stature since his move from Leeds United in 2024. At Spurs, he has showcased the ability to play in a variety of positions, as Wenham alluded to in his comments, which does make him a valuable commodity for Tottenham.

His versatility and future promise make him an attractive addition for many clubs, including Liverpool, who have been looking to bolster their midfield for a few years now. It remains to be seen whether the Reds are considering making an offer, although Spurs may have to heed Wenham’s advice and do their utmost to keep hold of Gray for the long-term future.

Tottenham players face a nightmare prospect in the event of relegation

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Tottenham players will have to accept a massive pay cut if the club ends up getting relegated to the Championship.

After parting ways with Igor Tudor just 44 days into his tenure, Tottenham Hotspur have appointed Roberto De Zerbi as their new manager. They have handed the former Brighton manager a long-term deal despite the imminent threat of relegation.

While dropping down to the second division will be a massive blow for the club, they are prepared to cope with the situation financially. According to Graeme Bailey via TEAMtalk, a number of players in the Tottenham squad have a relegation clause in their contract. As per the clause, the player’s salary will be reduced significantly if the club were to drop out of the Premier League.

Bailey said, “We understand that clauses are in place at Tottenham, but understandably the club don’t want to talk about such things.

“With De Zerbi now in place, their only thinking is about staying in the Premier League – they are really only concerned with staying in the top flight.

“But we are informed that reduction in salary clauses are in the contracts, and some of them are substantial.”

With things not working out under Thomas Frank, Spurs appointed Tudor in mid-February with the hope that he could help steady the ship. However, things went from bad to worse under his management as they could only secure one point in their five league outings under the Croatian manager.

Following that run, they are now 17th on the points table and are only a point clear of the drop zone. With just seven games to go, De Zerbi certainly has his task cut out. Spurs have handed him a long-term deal without any relegation clause, which suggests the Italian is here to build a long-term project.

Relegation clause in star players’ contracts

For now, everyone is focused on ensuring they survive the drop. But if they fail, some of their biggest players will have to deal with massive financial blows. In the event of relegation, summer signings Xavi Simons and Mohammed Kudus will both have to deal with a pay cut.

The duo agreed to contracts with a clause that includes substantial wage drops in the event of relegation. Even winter signing Conor Gallagher, who is the highest-paid player at the club, agreed to such a clause.

Not just the new signings, defensive mainstay Cristian Romero also agreed to a similar clause when he penned a lucrative new deal last year. While Spurs seem to be well protected in case of relegation, their priority is to ensure they avoid the drop at all costs.

Tottenham reluctant to sell Dominic Solanke, sale could be forced

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Dominic Solanke is reportedly a target for Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur could be forced to consider selling him in the summer.

According to a report from Football Insider, Tottenham Hotspur are reluctant to sell Dominic Solanke in the summer transfer window, but they could be forced to cash in on him if they are relegated or the player decides to force an exit. They would also find it difficult to turn down attractive offers for the English striker.

It remains to be seen whether Newcastle United are prepared to take advantage of their situation and make a move for the England international. Even though the Englishman has not been a prolific goalscorer for Tottenham, he is a useful player who has shown his quality in the Premier League.

Newcastle United need more depth in their attacking unit, and Solanke is a top target. Yoane Wissa has struggled since arriving from Brentford last summer, and the Magpies need more options in the final third. Signing another striker in the summer could be a wise decision. Meanwhile, Tottenham’s reported asking price of £50 million makes him an appealing target.

Will Spurs sell Dominic Solanke?

Pete O’Rourke explained, “Solanke is part of Thomas Tuchel’s England squad where he’ll be hoping he can impress and book a ticket for the World Cup. For Tottenham, he’s under contract until 2030, so they’re under no real massive pressure to sell him under a long-term contract.

“Obviously if they do suffer the worst fate and go down obviously they might be forced to cash in on some of their players. Some of those players might not be too keen to be playing in the Championship either so obviously he could be available then in the summer if Spurs are relegated.

“They’re still very reluctant to sell him, Tottenham, but they might be left with no choice if any clubs come in for him and that is the case.”

Solanke has not been at his best

Meanwhile, Tottenham are also lacking in quality attackers. They will need to replace Solanke properly if he is sold in the summer. The North London outfit need a reliable striker who can find the back of the net regularly. Solanke cost Spurs a club-record fee of around £65 million, but he has 22 goals and eight assists in 62 matches for them.

In theory, the Englishman’s departure might not be a massive blow for the club, but they are short on goal scorers and might need to invest in multiple strikers if the 28-year-old is sold. It remains to be seen how the situation unfolds. However, with Solanke reportedly valued at £50 million, it will not be surprising to see him leave, especially if Tottenham get relegated.

Tottenham, Aston Villa, Newcastle United vying for Pascal Struijk

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Pascal Struijk is of interest to clubs like Tottenham, Aston Villa and Newcastle United ahead of the summer as Leeds United faces a difficult decision.

According to Sports Boom, Pascal Struijk could attract significant interest in the summer, with the likes of Aston Villa, Tottenham and Newcastle United all showing an interest. Leeds United could face a tough decision about their long-time defender, as they could either cash in or offer him a new deal.

Pascal Struijk has been at Leeds United since 2020 after joining their U-19 side from Ajax at the same level. He has steadily grown his stature at Elland Road, playing key roles in their promotion to the Premier League twice, and he also carries considerable experience in the top flight.

Struijk has made 188 appearances for Leeds United across all competitions, and at 26, the defender still has plenty more to give. Hence, it is no surprise that some of the top-flight sides are angling for a move in the summer, as the Dutchman will enter the final year of his deal at Elland Road.

Leeds United are faced with a tough decision as they could either cash in or offer their key defender a new contract. Both prospects could aid Leeds United in how they view the future, as they are now aware of the interest from Aston Villa, Tottenham and Newcastle United.

Newcastle United are contemplating the sale of Sven Botman, as they are interested in Alessandro Buongiorno from Napoli to replace him. However, Struijk could be viewed as a like-for-like replacement for his compatriot, as Leeds United could demand as much as £30 million for their mainstay.

Pascal Struijk to leave Leeds United?

Struijk could consider his future if Leeds United fail in their task of offering him a new deal that aligns with his importance in the team. Tottenham could emerge as an option, potentially even if they suffer relegation, as the money on offer could be key. There is a chance Micky van de Ven could depart in the summer for a new challenge, and Struijk could be seen as an ideal replacement should that happen.