The Independent

“It sends a message to other teams,” declared Djed Spence. “We can beat any team.” If the message last season was that Tottenham Hotspur could lose to any team, perhaps it has been flipped. Although, some might say, any Tottenham team can beat Manchester City. Their domestic dominance may be over but in, recent years, City have lost to Spurs sides under the auspices of Mauricio Pochettino, Jose Mourinho, Nuno Espirito Santo, Antonio Conte, Ange Postecoglou, Thomas Frank and even Cristian Stellini.

Typical Tottenham, then, even if the phrase could have other connotations. Saturday’s terrific display against former champions had the feel of a mission statement; not just that Spurs could win, but how they could. They were separated by 14 places last season but 17th beat third. Spence has his sights set on a top-four finish. “Of course, there's no reason [why not], if we perform like that week in, week out,” he added.

The performance made it seem a realistic aim. To do so, however, would fly in the face of recent history. Two decades ago, David Moyes’ Everton finished 17th one season, fourth the next. No one has done so since. There has been a more spectacular rise in the meantime, Leicester going from 14th to first, but there has been a certain familiarity about the top of many a Premier League table.

Perhaps Tottenham added a volatility to the division, their slump last season, and Manchester United’s simultaneous descent to 15th, proving far worse than seemed feasible. Should each return to more usual abodes, it might be a reaction to startling underachievement. There could be a sense of normal service being resumed.

Maybe the transfer window is an indication of the established order reasserting their authority. Newcastle missed out on players signed by Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United. Tottenham were gazumped by Arsenal for Eberechi Eze. United and Spurs both signed a player – Bryan Mbeumo and Mohammed Kudus – from a club who finished above them. Spurs hired a manager from a club who finished above them.

If Frank disturbed the natural pecking order with Brentford and is charged with restoring it now, it would still be some feat. Even if last season was an artificial low, teams rarely improve their points tally by about 30 in a year. Losers don't just become winners.

A couple of years ago, in the heady days of a start under Postecoglou that featured eight victories and two draws in 10 games, their fans chorused: “We’ve got our Tottenham back”. There were contrasting choruses in the closing minutes at the Etihad Stadium: one calling for chairman Daniel Levy to go, another that Spurs were top of the league.

Which, five hours later, they were not. The verdict on Frank’s Tottenham may only come at the end of his reign. Postecoglou’s Spurs were consistently good at the start, consistently bad in the Premier League at the end and consistently inconsistent in the middle.

The early evidence is that they have been imbued with a new ethos. A flexibility has replaced a self-defeating dogma. “He's a manager who will switch up,” said Spence. “I guess it depends what team you play, you change the tactics. And you saw [at City], you saw against Paris Saint-Germain he was capable of doing that.”

There is an attention to detail. “There’s been a lot of meetings, but I like that; meetings every day,” said Richarlison. “I’m improving the tactical part.”

There are players benefiting from regime change, the Brazilian striker among them. “Since I got here, every time the transfer window opens, my name is circled as one who could leave, going back to Brazil or wherever,” added Richarlison. “But I’ve always been focussed on Tottenham and I’ve never had a conversation about leaving.”

There are a couple of signings who have had an immediate impact. Kudus got two assists against Burnley on his first Premier League start. Joao Palhinha scored at City, but his real value lies in his ability to recover possession. “He's a machine, he flies into tackles,” said Spence. There was a common-sense element to Palhinha’s arrival on loan from Bayern Munich: Frank addressed a shortcoming in his squad. There is also an aspirational element. Even while frustrated in attempts to recruit Morgan Gibbs-White and Eze, he has brought in the kind of proven performers he could not entice to Brentford.

There was a glimpse of Frank’s charismatic man-management. As Spence spoke in the bowels of the Etihad Stadium, his manager walked past, tapped him and said: “He played well, guys”. Spence may be in a structure where that excellence can be rewarded. “With the defence, if you keep clean sheets it wins games,” he said; it is orthodox thinking, but there were times when Postecoglou’s Spurs seemed to eschew it. But Frank, Brennan Johnson said, “respects defending”.

Perhaps the paradox of Frank’s Tottenham is that he seems to be making a team out of keeping with the club’s identity – more solid, more streetwise – to take them back to where they used to be. If Spurs go from 17th to fourth, they could show the new unpredictability of the Premier League. And yet they could be restoring predictability.

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Liveupdated

Transfer news live: Spurs push for Savinho, Saudi back in for Fernandes, Man City agree Donnarumma terms

The latest transfers, gossip and rumours as deadline day begins to pull into view

Tottenham are sounding out attacking alternatives to Eberechi Eze after rivals Arsenal dramatically swooped to beat Thomas Frank’s side to his signature.

Arsenal confirmed a transfer worth £60m and £7.5m in add-ons – pretty much exactly Eze’s release clause - and the boyhood Gunners fan was unveiled at the Emirates before the Premier League match against Leeds. It leaves Spurs in a late scramble for a new attacker as the deadline looms, with the likes of Savinho and Lucas Paqueta being targeted.

Alexander Isak’s explosive statement this week accused Newcastle of “broken promises” and “lost trust”, with Liverpool still strongly linked with a move for the Swedish striker. The Reds’ offer of £110m fell short of Newcastle’s valuation and Eddie Howe described Isak’s statement as a “sad moment”, but the Magpies boss insists he won’t be left striker-short by the end of the window.

Elsewhere, Manchester United may be tasked with fending of more interest from Saudi Arabia for captain Bruno Fernandes, with Al-Ittihad targeting the midfielder. They continue to be hampered with goalkeeping struggles, but it is their city rivals that could strengthen in that department, with Manchester City agreeing personal terms with PSG stopper Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Follow all the latest transfer news, gossip, rumours and done deals in The Independent’s live blog below

Chelsea prospect set for Dortmund loan

Aaron Anselmino is set to join Borussia Dortmund from Chelsea on loan, according to Fabrizio Romano.

There will be no buy option, with Dortmund covering his salary.

This comes before Carney Chukwuemeka’s permanent move to the German side, with is reportedly almost done.

Will Castle24 August 2025 10:10

Saudi back in for Bruno Fernandes

Manchester United may be tasked with warding off even more interest from Saudi Arabia for Bruno Fernandes with Al-Ittihad interested, according to The Sun.

Fernandes was subject to interest from interest from Al-Hilal earlier in the window but turned down the move down.

According to this new report, Al-Ittihad are willing to pay the midfielder £33m a year, and the club will once again leave it to their captain to make his own decision.

Will Castle24 August 2025 09:50

Man City reach personal terms agreement with Gianluigi Donnarumma

Manchester City have reached an agreement on personal terms with PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The exiled stopper wants to join as club-to-club negotiations begin, with a fee of £43.3m (€50m) initially requested.

However, for Donnarumma to make the move, Ederson will need to leave the club, with Galatasaray still interested.

Will Castle24 August 2025 09:30

Spurs push for Savinho

Tottenham are ready to pay over £60.7m (€70m) to secure the services of Manchester City winger Savinho, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Spurs are in need of attacking reinforcements after missing out on Eberechi Eze to Arsenal.

The Brazil international is reportedly keen on the move to Thomas Frank's side and it all depends on Man City.

Will Castle24 August 2025 09:10

Eddie Howe says Newcastle would not be left striker-light by Alexander Isak exit

Newcastle’s owners will not leave boss Eddie Howe without a recognised senior striker as the Alexander Isak saga rumbles into the final few days of the summer transfer window.

Asked about the prospect of losing Isak without a new recruit in place, Howe said: “I don’t think the club will allow that situation to happen.

“We certainly can’t go through the season with no recognised striker at the football club – and that’s no disrespect to Will Osula.

“I think he’s doing really well and he’s progressing really well, but he’s got limited experience in the Premier League, although I’m really happy with his career progression.

“But Alex at the moment would be the only striker we have with Premier League history of goals and appearances and starts, so we can’t leave ourselves in that position.”

Eddie Howe says Newcastle would not be left striker-light by Alexander Isak exit

The Magpies are still in the market for a frontman.

Will Castle24 August 2025 08:53

Why Arsenal’s future looks brighter than ever after demolishing Leeds

The future looks bright at Arsenal. Hoping for it to be “fourth time’s a charm” in their pursuit of Premier League glory, a flawless start to the new season feels imperative. It meant a home victory over newly promoted Leeds United, in itself, was not so much a headline as it was an expectation. Instead, the stories of the day centred around a select few individuals, those that spark visions of rediscovered success.

Read Will Castle’s report from the Emirates:

Why Arsenal’s future looks brighter than ever after demolishing Leeds

Arsenal 5-0 Leeds: Viktor Gyokeres and Jurrien Timber bag braces while 15-year-old Max Dowman makes a memorable Premier League debut

Will Castle24 August 2025 08:36

Adam Wharton on Real Madrid's radar?

Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton is reportedly on Real Madrid’s radar.

That’s according to Spanish outlet AS, who say Madrid have identified the 21-year-old as a possible replacement after missing out on Martin Zubimendi.

Palace would command a huge fee for Wharton so close to the end of the window.

Jamie Braidwood24 August 2025 07:33

Could Man City still move for Rodrygo?

Manchester City have not ruled out a move for Real Madrid forward Rodrygo.

The Brazilian is set to leave Madrid this summer but the Spanish club are demanding €80m for him.

ESPN report that a move for Rodrygo could depend on Savinho leaving, with Tottenham previously linked.

Jamie Braidwood24 August 2025 06:33

Everton close in on Tyler Dibling deal to take summer spending past £100m

Everton are closing in on a deal for Tyler Dibling as David Moyes is set to finally end his summer-long search for a right winger.

The Merseyside club had two bids for the teenager rejected as Southampton put a £50m price on his head, which Everton were reluctant to pay.

But the Championship club initiated talks on Friday and Everton came to an agreement of a basic fee and add-ons which is thought to come in at under £42m.

Everton close in on Tyler Dibling deal to take summer spending past £100m

Everton had two bids rejected for the teenager earlier in the window but appear to be closing in on the Southampton starlet

Jamie Braidwood24 August 2025 05:33

Manuel Akanji and Ilkay Gundogan not in Man City squad amid transfer links

Manuel Akanji and Ilkay Gundogan were not in the Manchester City squad for today’s defeat to Tottenham. Both have been linked with moves away. Are they on their way out of the Etihad?

Pep Guardiola said this week that he is not the person to ask when it comes to transfer business.

"To be honest, I don't know what is happening with a few players - I don't know who is coming, who is staying, who is leaving, I don't know.

"All the clubs I had the feeling that it is the same, we are not an exception. Because the agents make the roles, the club have their opinions, the players have theirs, and after that we see what happens."

Jamie Braidwood24 August 2025 04:33

Lads, it’s Thomas Frank’s Tottenham. A statement result for a new regime came at the ground that staged the most glorious triumph of Angeball. If Frank’s 2-0 win is statistically less impressive than Ange Postecoglou’s 4-0 evisceration of Manchester City last season, it came in a manner to suggest that this Tottenham Hotspur are built on sturdier foundations.

Yet if this season looks a reaction to last for Tottenham, the danger for City is that it is simply a continuation. Four summer signings started and six 2025 buys but, for Pep Guardiola, there could have been a depressing familiarity to this. City conceded a goal to a counter-attack and another because of a goalkeeping error. They were recurring themes last year. Guardiola tried six players in the three attacking midfield positions but without suggesting he knows his strongest side. Erling Haaland got too little service. City were emphatically beaten by the side who finished 17th last season.

If that was an indictment of Postecoglou, there was a fragility to his football and there is a solidity to Frank’s. The Dane could be an advertisement for pragmatism and, particularly after last year, pragmatism might have a beauty for Spurs. They were expertly organised, brimming with a powerful physicality. Frank had deployed a back five against Paris Saint-Germain, implying that tactic would be reserved for elite opponents. Perhaps City are less scary but he only fielded two central defenders.

Like much else he decided, it was the right choice. He built from the back. “The clean sheet makes me very happy,” said Frank. “It is a big thing we have been working on. Last year we had six clean sheets.” It was a reference to Spurs’ poor defensive record under Postecoglou, a recognition it needed to get better and a demonstration it will. He talked about “defensive principles”; as his reign unravelled, Postecoglou preferred to cite his attacking ethos.

Frank’s clean sheet came with a defence he inherited. In a world where perceptions of clubs can be overly shaped by the transfer window, Spurs have had a terrible week. On the pitch, they have had an outstanding one. This put Eberechi Eze’s change of heart into context. Perhaps, indeed, Spurs’ second goal stemmed from their failure to sign the Arsenal-bound midfielder. Without him, Pape Matar Sarr was instead used as the toughest of No 10s and he won the ball from Nico Gonzalez; a goal was created by pressing in the City penalty area.

It was scored by Joao Palhinha, the ball-winner extraordinaire. For all Spurs’ tradition of flair players, perhaps their signature signing this summer will be a defensive midfielder they borrowed from Bayern Munich. “The coach pushed me to come,” said Palhinha, who was outstanding. “Palhinha, wow,” gasped Frank in admiration. The other newcomer, Mohammed Kudus, seemed impossible to bundle off the ball. “I think it is fair to say we got a few questions about the transfer market, why not and what if, but we brought two top players into the club,” added Frank. Those two were part of the new, savvy Spurs.

The City newcomers had less to savour. Rayan Ait-Nouri’s home bow was curtailed by injury. James Trafford’s Etihad Stadium debut was still worse. A goalkeeper who did not concede two goals in a league game last season at Burnley had to retrieve the ball from his net twice before half-time. The second was his fault, glaringly from a failed attempt to pass from his six-yard box, attempting a risky ball to Nico Gonzalez, finding only Sarr and, though he saved Richarlison’s shot, not Palhinha’s follow-up. Trafford may reflect on two similar incidents, almost a mirror image. Rayan Cherki nearly scored in the same goal after Guglielmo Vicario’s misjudged attempt to pass out from the back. That, however, may soon be forgotten.

Yet a more pertinent comparison was with the goalkeeper on the bench. Spurs’ second goal was a reminder of why Ederson – back on the bench after gastroenteritis but attracting interest from Galatasaray – has been so fundamental to Guardiola’s style of football. “He made a good first game, James, and I decided to continue,” said Guardiola, explaining why he retained the summer signing.

Meanwhile, City’s problems against swift breaks continued. Richarlison escaped from the substitute Nathan Ake, who was on for Ait-Nouri, on the Spurs right. A sliding Rico Lewis could not prevent the faster Brennan Johnson from finishing. It completed a Mancunian double for the Europa League final scorer.

City, meanwhile, had scored four at Wolves last week but drew a blank. “Everyone said everything was fine but I said it was just the first game,” reflected Guardiola, who tinkered in search of a solution. The greatest menace came from Omar Marmoush, but he was one of the first replaced.

The closing stages nevertheless amounted to a test of Tottenham’s fortitude. Two-and-a-half years ago, City came from 2-0 down to beat Tottenham 4-2. Ten days earlier, Spurs had led Paris Saint-Germain 2-0 and still lost on penalties. “We referenced that at half-time,” said Frank.

There was no repeat of either. Instead, it could have been 3-0. Trafford made an injury-time double save from the substitutes Dominic Solanke and Wilson Odobert. But his afternoon will be remembered for neither stop but the false start to his second coming at City.

Manchester City host Tottenham in the early kick-off in the Premier League, with Rodri set to return from injury as both sides looking to add to impressive opening-day wins.

City began the season with a dominant display away to Wolves, with Tijjani Reijnders impressing and Erling Haaland grabbing two goals in a 4-0 win. Rodri, the Ballon d’Or holder, has been sidelined since September with a knee injury and starts on the bench alongside Phil Foden.

Spurs secured their own commanding win over newly promoted Burnley in their first game, with Richarlison bagging a brace in Thomas Frank’s first league game at his new club. Spurs are desperately seeking new recruits, however, after Eberechi Eze turned them down to sign for Arsenal.

Now the two sides face off at the Etihad to begin the weekend, with Pep Guardiola’s side looking to lay down an early marker in the title race and Spurs eager to impress as they bid to forge a successful campaign in Frank’s first season in charge.

Follow all the latest updates from the Etihad below

Next article

Liveupdated

Transfer news live: Arsenal and Spurs battle for Leverkusen defender, Man Utd want Lammens, Isak to Liverpool update

The latest transfers, gossip and rumours as deadline day begins to pull into view

Tottenham are sounding out attacking alternatives to Eberechi Eze after rivals Arsenal dramatically swooped to beat Thomas Frank’s side to his signature.

Arsenal confirmed a transfer worth £60m and £7.5m in add-ons – pretty much exactly Eze’s release clause - and the boyhood Gunners fan was unveiled at the Emirates before the Premier League match against Leeds. It leaves Spurs in a late scramble for a new attacker as the deadline looms, with Man City’s Savinho topping their list. However, The Independent understands both clubs are still very far apart when it comes to agreeing a price for the Brazilian.

Alexander Isak’s explosive statement this week accused Newcastle of “broken promises” and “lost trust”, with Liverpool still strongly linked with a move for the Swedish striker. The Reds’ offer of £110m fell short of Newcastle’s valuation and Eddie Howe described Isak’s statement as a “sad moment”, but the Magpies boss insists he won’t be left striker-short by the end of the window.

Elsewhere, Manchester United may be tasked with fending of more interest from Saudi Arabia for captain Bruno Fernandes, with Al-Ittihad targeting the midfielder. They continue to be hampered with goalkeeping struggles, but it is their city rivals that could strengthen in that department, with Manchester City agreeing personal terms with PSG stopper Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Follow all the latest transfer news, gossip, rumours and done deals in The Independent’s live blog below

Tottenham attack new transfer targets before deadline after Eberechi Eze blow

Tottenham Hotspur are trying to get Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche and one other attacker in, after the club was left scrambling to find a solution since being gazumped by Arsenal for Crystal Palace midfielder Eberechi Eze.

The club are shocked at how the transfer played out, and there is considerable supporter unrest, especially since James Maddison succumbed to injury. Spurs have now lost out on two major transfers late into negotiations, after Morgan Gibbs-White decided to stay at Nottingham Forest.

There are still several targets available, albeit with Spurs having lost their leverage now that every club knows they need to do business.

Tottenham attack new transfer targets before deadline after Eberechi Eze blow

Spurs are diving back into the transfer market after being beaten to their top priority by Arsenal

Chris Wilson25 August 2025 12:02

Napoli still want Hojlund

Napoli remain in talks with Man Utd over a deal to sign striker Rasmus Hojlund, according to Sky.

Discussions are said to be positive, with the Italian side exploring a loan with an obligation to buy. It is thought Hojlund is very open to the move, preferring a permanent element attached to any deal while also being tempted by the chance to play Champions League football.

It is currently unknown exactly how much the buy option would be, though United were said to want around £40m earlier in the window.

Chris Wilson25 August 2025 11:44

Arsenal hand Max Dowman, 15, Premier League debut against Leeds

Arsenal have handed 15-year-old academy star Max Dowman his Premier League debut.

Dowman was included among the substitutes ahead of Arsenal’s home match against Leeds United after rising through the club’s academy and came on for Noni Madueke in the 64th minute at the Emirates Stadium.

At 15 years and 235 days, Dowman becomes just the third player to appear in a Premier League game before turning 16 years old after team-mate Ethan Nwaneri (15y, 181d) and Jeremy Monga (15y, 271d), who made his debut for Leicester last season.

The youngster looked incredibly lively in his debut and could have had a goal when he cut inside from the right wing and fired a shot just over the bar. He then won a penalty in injury time as he burst into the box, which Viktor Gyokeres converted to put the finishing touches on a 5-0 triumph.

Arsenal hand 15-year-old Premier League debut against Leeds

Born in 2009, Dowman was named on the bench against Leeds and came on for the final half an hour

Chris Wilson25 August 2025 11:28

Porto in for Kiwior

Porto are expected to bid once more for Jakub Kiwior, despite Arsenal rejecting an opening offer in July.

According to Fabrizio Romano, “if Oleksandr Zinchenko and Kiwior do leave before the deadline, Arsenal could add one more player”, likely to be a defender.

The Gunners are asking for around £26m for the Poland international.

Chris Wilson25 August 2025 11:14

Arsenal also in for Hincapie!

We could be set for another battle between the north London rivals here!

David Ornstein now reports that Arsenal are also working on a deal for Hincapie, with the Ecuadorian apparently prioritising the Gunners over any other club.

There are “efforts ongoing to make [the] fee more realistic than [the] €60m clause”, adds Ornstein.

Chris Wilson25 August 2025 10:55

Spurs make approach for Leverkusen defender

Tottenham have made an approach for Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapié, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The deal would be an initial loan with an obligation to buy for around €60m, which is the same value as the Ecuadorian’s release clause.

Chris Wilson25 August 2025 10:50

Man United transfer news: Lucien Agoume, Carlos Baleba, Senne Lammens and more

Manchester United are in the midst of a crucial summer as Ruben Amorim finally re-shapes his squad and tries to transform his failing team into contenders at the top end of the table.

It shouldn’t be forgotten that Amorim initially rebuffed United’s approachfollowing the sacking of Erik ten Hag, and perhaps he was wise to try and delay the move, because what followed was a disastrous campaign culminating in the 1-0 loss to Tottenham in the Europa League final.

Now Amorim has had a full preseason to prepare his side and a summer transfer window to mould his squad before a season without European football, and he must take full advantage.

The release of the Premier League fixtures showed a difficult start for United, with games against Manchester City and Chelsea to come after their opening loss to Arsenal, and while the performance was encouraging against the Gunners, the manager’s future could be called into question early should his side struggle in the coming weeks.

United got some early business done with the signing of Matheus Cunha from Wolves in a £62.5m deal before completing a move for Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo, and though co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe had made clear that the money pot is not deep, the club also signed a £70m deal for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko.

Offloading high-wage players such as Jadon Sancho and Alejandro Garnacho is key to funding the rest of the window, with a lack of movement potentially leading to the club missing out on the next step: midfield and goalkeeper signings.

Here’s everything you need to know about Manchester United’s summer transfer plans.

Man United transfer news: Agoume, Baleba, Lammens and more

Manchester United have already secured Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo in what has been a busy summer at Old Trafford

Chris Wilson25 August 2025 10:39

Milan targeting striker after Boniface fails medical

AC Milan target Victor Boniface has “failed his medical tests” at the Italian club and will return to Bayer Leverkusen, reports Fabrizio Romano.

The Nigerian striker has returned to Germany “despite [a] verbal agreement for [a] €5m loan fee and €24m buy clause”.

Chris Wilson25 August 2025 10:23

Spurs see €70m bid rejected

Tottenham have seen a €70m bid for Como’s Nico Paz turned down by the Italian club, according to Fabrizio Romano.

“Real have €10m buy back clause in 2026 but will compensate Como in future,” adds the Italian, with Madrid wanting the youngster to stay in Italy for one more season.

Chris Wilson25 August 2025 10:09

Man United in talks over highly-rated goalkeeper as Andre Onana decision made

Manchester United are in talks with Antwerp about a £17.3m move for the Belgian goalkeeper Senne Lammens.

Andre Onana is expected to remain at Old Trafford but Ruben Amorim is advancing in his attempts to add more competition for places.

And Lammens, a Belgium Under-21 international, could become United’s fifth summer signing after forwards Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko and wing-back Diego Leon.

Man United in talks over highly-rated goalkeeper as Andre Onana decision made

United have tracked the progress of Senne Lammens but Andre Onana is expected to remain at the club even if the Belgian arrives

Chris Wilson25 August 2025 09:54

Thomas Frank has a seismic job on his hands to rebuild Tottenham and lead the freshly crowned European champions into a new era.

Spurs came into the summer off the back of success in the Europa League final - a first trophy in 17 years, delivered by Ange Postecoglou.

However, silverware was not enough to save the Aussie’s job after what was otherwise a catastrophic campaign, with Tottenham finishing 17th in the Premier League on just 38 points.

Frank was sounded out as Daniel Levy’s first choice to replace Postecoglou in the dugout, with the Dane winning his fair share of admirers over a seven-year spell at the Brentford helm.

He oversaw a remarkable rise in the Bees’ fortunes, guiding them to promotion to the top flight in 2021, and has now moved to one of the Premier League’s “big six” in a bid to restore Spurs’ status as a contender at the upper end of the table.

The capture of West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus for £55m was the first step in doing that, but a potential move for Morgan Gibbs-White went awry before Spurs were beaten to the signing of Eberechi Eze by arch-rivals Arsenal.

And with James Maddison out for the majority of the season with an ACL injury, reinforcements are desperately needed ahead of the window closing on 1 September, with Spurs tracking targets in several attacking positions.

Here’s everything you need to know about Tottenham’s summer transfer plans.

Areas to improve

Tottenham might be boasting European champion status, but their team is hardly reflective of such an achievement. At the heart of their issues is depth, something that was brutally exposed last term in the midst of their unrelenting injury crisis.

Future injuries in defence cannot lead to Archie Gray being plonked at centre-back. As such, Spurs will be desperate for cover in those defensive positions, especially given the amount of time Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero spent in the treatment table last season.

Spurs were targeting a top quality defensive midfielder to elevate the team, given the issues experienced in that position. Though they have a few top-drawer midfielders – with the likes of James Maddison and Lucas Bergvall impressing – a new No 6 was a priority, and they seem to have sorted that with the loan signing of Joao Palhinha.

Going forward, Spurs need further reinforcements. Mathys Tel’s loan move has already been made permanent, and alongside the arrival of Kudus these signings act to partly address issues in depth on the wing and up top. However, Spurs could really do with another striker option and ideally an extra body on the wing, though their much-publicised pursuit of Morgan Gibbs-White was derailed after the Englishman signed a new contract at the City Ground.

Done deals

Ins: Mohammed Kudus (West Ham, £55m), Mathys Tel (Bayern Munich, £30m), Kevin Danso (Lens, £21m), Luka Vuskovic (Hadjuk Split, £9.4m), Kota Takai (Kawasaki Frontale, £5m), Joao Palhinha (Bayern Munich, loan)

Outs: Pierre-Emile Hojberg (Marseille, £17m), Alejo Veliz (Rosario Central, loan), Fraser Forster (released), Sergio Reguilon (released), Alfie Whiteman (released), Heung Min Son (LAFC, £20m), Mikey Moore (Rangers, loan)

Potential targets

Savinho, Manchester City

City winger Savinho emerged as a main target for Spurs after the injury to Maddison, with the club seeing a proposal worth a rumoured €50m rejected by City.

City’s hierarchy are blocking the move at the moment, though it is suggested that a bid closer to £70m would tempt the Cityzens, and Spurs are still interested.

Maghnes Akliouche, AS Monaco

AS Monaco winger Akliouche has been identified as an alternative target to Savinho, with the Frenchman available for around £47.5m.

The 23-year-old scored seven goals for the club last season and opened his account for 25/26 in the 3-1 win over Le Havre on the opening day, and it is understood that several of Europe’s top clubs are tracking him.

Morgan Rogers, Aston Villa

As reported in The Independent, Spurs have made Morgan Rogers a primary target after missing out on Eze, with contact made via intermediaries to see if a deal is possible.

Villa do not want to sell the 23-year-old, who won the PFA Young Player of the Year award this week, though they may have to consider if a bid arrives due to their ongoing PSR struggles.

Nevertheless, it is suggested that Villa would require a bid worth around £80m to even consider a sale.

Marc Guehi, Crystal Palace

Eagles skipper Marc Guehi has been near the top of Tottenham’s wish list for a while now, though they face competition from clubs including Liverpool and Newcastle.

Spurs had a late move for the defender rejected in the winter window but could go back in for him in the coming weeks, with his contract at Selhurst Park expiring in 2026. Palace are said to be holding out for around £40m for the 25-year-old, though Liverpool are reportedly close to a move after agreeing personal terms with the England international.

Yoane Wissa, Brentford

Tottenham are interested in Brentford’s Yoane Wissa, who is Brentford’s leading scorer in the Premier League with 45 goals. Spurs originally held an interest in the striker in January, and have been quoted a price of £50m for his signature.

Newcastle, Nottingham Forest and even Liverpool are also interested in the Congo international, but with Brentford wanting to keep him and Newcastle already seeing two bids rebuffed, this is not an easy deal to do at this point.

Nico Paz, Como

Reports in Italy claim that Spurs submitted an offer worth €40m for Como midfielder Nico Paz, who joined the club from Real Madrid last season and subsequently won the Serie A young player of the season award. Como are said to want at least €60m for the Argentina national, with Madrid set to earn up to 50 per cent of any transfer fee due to a sell-on clause.

Rodrygo, Real Madrid

File this one under ‘unlikely’, but Tottenham continue to be linked with Real Madrid winger Rodrygo in several reports over the last few weeks.

The Brazilian is said to be unhappy at his lack of a starting berth at the Bernabeu, and could move elsewhere with leading clubs including PSG and Liverpool interested.

However, conflicting reports suggest he could opt to fight for his future and sign a new deal at Los Blancos, so each report needs to be taken with a pinch of salt.

Thomas Frank has said he only wants to sign players who are desperate to play for Tottenham, after Eberechi Eze snubbed the club for Arsenal.

Eze was set to move to Spurs before Arsenal stepped up their interest following an injury to forward Kai Havertz. The Gunners matched Tottenham’s bid for the Crystal Palace midfielder and Eze, who was released by Arsenal aged 13, chose the Emirates Stadium as his new home.

The blow leaves Frank with few attacking options. Richarlison scored two goals against Burnley last weekend and is set to continue in attack at Manchester City on Saturday, while new signing Mohammed Kudus made an impressive league debut. Mathys Tel and Brennan Johnson are also options on the wings, and Dominic Solanke is fit, but injuries to James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski, and the departure of Heung min-Son, leave Spurs short of resources.

Frank is confident the club will make a signing before the transfer deadline on 1 September, and although he didn’t namecheck Eze, the manager laid out what he wants from a new signing.

“Talking generally, to be very, very clear, I don’t want any players that don’t want to come to the club,” Frank said. “If they don’t want to come to the club, to wear this fantastic badge, we don’t want them here.”

Tottenham looked slick in their 3-0 win over newly promoted Burnley and Frank insisted he is happy enough with his options, while admitting there is a need for more.

“I think we just played the first game and scored three goals so I think that was pretty promising. Kudus has that spark and creativity. I think Mathys Tel can play in different positions. Dom [Solanke] and Richy [Richarlison] can score goals and Brennan [Johnson] is our deep runner. We have variations.

“Of course we need to do everything we can [in the transfer market]. We have six good front players that is very competitive. Kulusevski will come back this season, probably longer term with Maddison. I am also confident we will sign a player before the end of the window.”

Frank said Richarlison, who has been linked with an exit this summer, will not be leaving the club. “Right now he is my starting nine. He scored two top goals. Richy wants to stay, I want to keep him and there’s been no talks about anything else.”

As well as Maddison and Kulusevski, Spurs are also without Radu Dragusin, Manor Solomon, Destiny Udogie, Yves Bissouma and Bryan Gil for the trip to City.

“Destiny is better and trained with the team twice, full training, just too short to be involved against City,” Frank said. “We want him to train tomorrow and get another week. Bissouma is also out. Kulusevski is out for some time and I don't want to put a timeframe on it.”

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Liveupdated

Transfer news live: Eze to undergo Arsenal medical, Spurs scramble to sign alternative, Isak to Liverpool update

The latest transfers, gossip and rumours as deadline day begins to pull into view

Arsenal have dramatically stolen Eberechi Eze from Tottenham’s grasp and are set to sign the England international after he bid farewell to Crystal Palace last night.

The Gunners moved quickly after the news that Kai Havertz damaged his knee in their win over Manchester United, and look set to complete a transfer worth £60m and £7.5m in add-ons – pretty much exactly Eze’s release clause, which expired for this window last Thursday. Spurs are now in a late scramble for a new attacker as the deadline looms.

Alexander Isak’s explosive statement this week accused Newcastle United of “broken promises” and “lost trust”, with Liverpool still strongly linked with a move for the Swedish striker. The Reds’ offer of £110m fell short of Newcastle’s valuation and the North East club issued a statement of their own saying conditions for a sale were unlikely to be met before the transfer window deadline.

Elsewhere, Manchester United continue to endure frustration with their goalkeeper situation, and could yet rival Manchester City for Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, while striker Rasmus Hojlund could be on his way to Napoli. Chelsea are closing in on Brighton winger Julio Enciso and are still working on a deal for United’s Alejandro Garnacho.

Follow all the latest transfer news, gossip, rumours and done deals in The Independent’s live blog below:

Tottenham turn to new attacking targets

It’s not been a great week for Tottenham. After missing out on Eberechi Eze to rivals Arsenal, there are reports that Dejan Kulusevski has been ruled out until 2026, to add to James Maddison’s injury absence.

The Independent understands that Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche is their latest target, while Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers, Southampton’s Tyler Dibling, RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons and Como’s Nico Paz have been discussed.

A bid of around £67m for Manchester City’s Savinho has faltered.

Jamie Braidwood22 August 2025 10:30

Mikel Arteta to speak this afternoon ahead of Eberechi Eze transfer

Mikel Arteta will appear at a press conference at 1:30pm this afternoon and could by then be in position to confirm Arsenal’s deal for Eberechi Eze, with the Crystal Palace star reportedly undergoing a medical at their London Colney training centre this morning.

Jamie Braidwood22 August 2025 10:20

Oliver Glasner angry at Crystal Palace transfer window ahead of Eberechi Eze exit

Oliver Glasner has slated Crystal Palace’s transfer window with Eberechi Eze’s exit to Arsenal imminent and no quality replacement lined up.

“I can’t do anything,” fumed a helpless Glasner. “I can’t sign a player’s contract. We have to act. We need this. This is Crystal Palace’s future. It’s easy to add numbers, we need to add the right players.

“The profile has been defined for months, for months. Also it’s not surprising for everyone that Ebs left, because five days earlier we couldn’t have done anything if he leaves (due to his release clause).

“We knew that this chance is very high that this would happen, and honestly, I say it like it is, we missed the chance to replace him early enough. That’s completely our fault, and nobody else’s fault.”

Oliver Glasner angry at Crystal Palace transfer window ahead of Eberechi Eze exit

Eze is on the verge of a move to Arsenal but Palace have done next to nothing in terms of bringing in players this summer

Jamie Braidwood22 August 2025 10:10

Ruben Dias signs new long-term Manchester City contract

Ruben Dias has signed a contract extension to keep him at Manchester City until 2029.

The centre-back’s new deal has an option for an extra year which would mean that he spends a decade at the Etihad Stadium. Dias, whose previous deal was due to expire in 2027, said he could not imagine playing anywhere else.

The Portugal international said: “I am incredibly happy today. I’m so proud to represent this great club. City are where I want to be – at the top of the sport, competing for trophies. The club’s ambition aligns perfectly with mine and as a footballer there is nothing better than that.”

Richard Jolly22 August 2025 10:00

Alexander Isak has destabilised Newcastle and now Liverpool can inflict further damage

As Alexander Isak remains unavailable, Newcastle are being destabilised and damaged during an unhappy impasse - and Liverpool have ensured the striker cannot again torment their defence.

But will he get his move to Liverpool before the deadline?

Isak has destabilised Newcastle and now Liverpool can inflict further damage

Newcastle host Liverpool on Monday night, a fixture framed by the striker who has dominated the summer transfer window

Richard Jolly22 August 2025 09:49

Eddie Howe responds to Alexander Isak’s claim Newcastle broke promises over Liverpool transfer

Eddie Howe has described Alexander Isak’s statement accusing Newcastle of breaking promises over his desired transfer to Liverpool as a “sad moment”.

More here:

Eddie Howe responds to Alexander Isak’s claim Newcastle broke promises over transfer

The Newcastle manager insists he still wants Isak to be part of his squad this season despite the Swedish striker’s statement accusing the club of going back on their word

Jamie Braidwood22 August 2025 09:44

Alexander Isak won't be involved against Liverpool, Eddie Howe confirms

So confirmation from Eddie Howe that Alexander Isak won’t play against Liverpool on Monday night as the striker pushes for a move away before the transfer deadline.

But Howe made it clear that he wants Isak to stay at the club and said there is a route for the striker to play for Newcastle again if he remains at the club after the deadline.

Isak hit out at Newcastle earlier this week over “broken promises” regarding his future. Liverpool are yet to submit a second bid for the 25-year-old.

Jamie Braidwood22 August 2025 09:42

Eddie Howe latest on Alexander Isak transfer saga: 'I want him back'

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe is speaking at a press conference this morning, where he has responded to Alexander Isak’s statement on social media this week.

“It was a sad moment,” Howe said. "My preference is these things do not happen publicly. They are better dealt with behind closed doors. But needs must.

“The club has spoken and justifiably so in that moment. He’s contracted to us. He’s our player. My wish is that he would be playing on Monday [against Liverpool]. He won’t be and that’s regrettable.

“But 100 per cent I want him back in a Newcastle shirt.”

Jamie Braidwood22 August 2025 09:34

Brentford turn down Newcastle's bid for Yoane Wissa

Newcastle want to sign a striker, or two, before even considering the idea that Alexander Isak will be allowed to leave the club this summer.

But they have been frustrated in their attempts to sign Yoane Wissa from Brentford, with a bid of £40m turned down for the striker.

Wissa did not play for Brentford last weekend and has taken an Isak-style approach to get his move.

Jamie Braidwood22 August 2025 09:30

Crystal Palace turn to new targets after Eberechi Eze move

Crystal Palace could respond to losing out on Eberechi Eze by targeting Southampton winger Tyler Dibling, who has been linked to several Premier League clubs this summer.

Palace have been linked to a £35m-plus bid, according to Givemesport, after interest from Everton and Tottenham in the teenager.

Jamie Braidwood22 August 2025 09:15

Tottenham Hotspur have made Morgan Rogers a priority target after missing out on Eberechi Eze, and contact has already been made with intermediaries to see if a deal is possible.

Aston Villa do not want to sell a young star who on Tuesday won PFA Young Player of the Year, but there is a feeling that a proper bid might change things, especially as the Birmingham club continue to face PSR constraints.

One huge obstacle for Spurs is that Rogers is expected to cost considerably more than Eze, given that he has a contract until 2030. While figures of £80m have already been mentioned in Spurs circles, it might have to go even higher to make Villa think.

This all comes amid increasing pressure on the Tottenham hierarchy, after the high-profile nature in which they missed out on both Morgan Gibbs-White at Nottingham Forest and Eze. There is also a pressing need for attacking players, after the injury to James Maddison.

Villa see Rogers as their club star, but they have had a situation where the wage bill was recently over 90 per cent of revenue, which led to a Uefa fine of £9.5m for breaching financial rules. They also have to comply with settlement restrictions on the registration of new players, unless the value of new signings is recouped in sales.

Spurs’s interest comes after a bid of around £67m for Manchester City’s Savinho has faltered, although as we revealed earlier, the club also have a number of other attacking targets on their list.

They ideally want to get Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche and one other attacker in to fill the hole left by Eze’s move to their north London rivals.

There are still several targets available, albeit with Spurs having lost their leverage now that every club knows they need to do business, and in addition to the Akliouche interest, an approach has been made for Southampton’s Tyler Dibling, and the possibility of Xavi Simons has been discussed, after the Leipzig player’s move to Chelsea stalled.

The Independent has also been told that Spurs had looked at reviving interest in Conor Gallagher, but there is a feeling that his wages at Atletico Madrid are too high, and many close to the situation feel Como’s Nico Paz is the most achievable transfer.

Tottenham Hotspur are trying to get Maghnes Akliouche and one other attacker in, as the club was left scrambling to find a solution after being gazumped by Arsenal for Eberechi Eze.

There is genuine shock at White Hart Lane about how the transfer played out, with all of that amid considerable supporter unrest and pressure, especially after the injury to James Maddison. Spurs have now lost out on two major transfers late into negotiations, after Morgan Gibbs-White decided to stay at Nottingham Forest.

There are still a number of targets available, albeit with Spurs having lost their leverage as every club knows they need to do business.

While The Independent first reported the Akliouche interest on Tuesday, other overtures have been made in the 24 hours since it became apparent they were going to lose out on Eze.

An approach has been made for Southampton’s Tyler Dibling, and the possibility of Xavi Simons has been discussed, as the Leipzig player’s move to Chelsea stalls.

The Independent has also been told that Spurs did look at reviving interest in Conor Gallagher, but there is a feeling that his wages at Atletico Madrid are much too high.

Many close to the situation feel Como's Nico Paz is the most achievable transfer, and movement on that is expected over Thursday.

Spurs are one of a few clubs to have a long-standing interest in Morgan Rogers, amid the belief that Aston Villa would consider a deal at the right price due to PSR constraints. That would be upward of £80m, however, and a much lower fee than that – at around £67m – has already seen a move for Manchester City’s Savinho falter.