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Harry Kane has been on fire this season, could a shock return to Tottenham be on the cards?

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He couldn’t, could he? Tottenham Hotspur are a different team to the one that Harry Kane left behind, however, the former skipper could be the missing piece of the jigsaw that Thomas Frank needs.

Despite a disrespectfully low Ballon d’Or ranking outside of the top 10, the England captain continues to have his name in the mix as one of the best strikers in the world with only the likes of Erling Haaland, Robert Lewandowski and Kylian Mbappe currently keeping up with the 32-year old Bayern Munich talisman.

With an astonishing 16 goals and four assists in 12 games so far this season, Kane is ageing like a fine wine and is showing no signs of slowing down or easing up on Europe’s defences.

Harry Kane release clause opens Tottenham return door

Speaking as part of his pre-match press conference for the Carabao Cup third round tie with Doncaster Rovers, Spurs boss Frank wasn’t hiding the fact that he would love to see Kane back in North London with the cockerel on his chest.

"There are a lot of Tottenham fans, including myself who would like to see Kane back," Frank said, via Sky Sports.

"Personally, I don't think he will do it right now, if I'm honest. He'll probably stay in Bayern [Munich] and continue performing well. He was the top scorer last year. He won the title and he's doing fantastic now. I don't know what he's thinking.

“Myself, I'm a traveller, I like to explore things as well, so he's been here for many years, so why not enjoy the time in Bayern a little bit more. But he's welcome. If he wants to join us, he's more than welcome."

How much would it cost to sign Kane?

Kane might be 32, however, Roberrt Lewandowski, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi and company have all shown that age is no barrier for those who look after themselves and who can adapt their game which makes the £54m release clause reported by Sky Sports a bargain.

There was a striker merry-go-round this summer, but it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Premier League teams getting the cheque book out if the top of the table is tight.

Daniel Levy might not have been entirely popular with Spurs fans, on this occasion though, he has left the club with an open goal with the genius clauses in the agreement for Kane to move to the Bundesliga. Not only is Kane’s release clause affordable, they get first refusal and the chance to match any bids that might be made to Bayern.

With 74 goals in 109 England caps, there can be little doubt about his place in the record books and a return to the Premier League could have Spurs fans in raptures and Alan Shearer sweating.

Tottenham Hotspur are back in Premier League action this weekend as Thomas Frank eyes more points

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Tottenham Hotspur won 3-0 against League One side Doncaster Rovers in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night. Joao Palhinha and Brennan Johnson got themselves on the scoresheet against the Yorkshire club. Jay McGrath also scored an own goal for their opponents.

Spurs drew 2-2 away at Brighton and Hove Albion in their last Premier League outing. They fought back from 2-0 down against the Seagulls to pick up a point at the AMEX Stadium. Next up is a home clash against Wolves this weekend.

Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper and defence

Spurs will bring Guglielmo Vicario back into the team against Wolves. He has played in all five of their league fixtures so far this season. Antonin Kinsky took his place between the sticks in the cup against Doncaster and kept a clean sheet.

Pedro Porro likes to get up and down the right flank of defence. He has been on the books at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium since 2022 and has since made 122 appearances. Destiny Udogie plays a similar role on the left and should replace Djed Spence.

Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven are the most likely centre-back pairing. The latter has had his fair share of injury issues since his move to England and will be eager to keep his fitness up. The duo will be eager to keep Wolves at bay as Thomas Frank’s men go in search of three points.

Tottenham Hotspur midfield and attack

Joao Palhinha has made a positive impression for Spurs since his loan switch from Bayern Munich. The former Fulham man has slotted into their starting XI very nicely. He managed to get on the scoresheet against Doncaster and will be full of confidence.

Xavi Simons has the ideal opportunity to start against Wolves. He has recently joined from RB Leipzig and is still getting to grips with life in England. The Holland international has serious quality and was an eye-catching acquisition.

Spurs may select Lucas Bergvall from the off like they did against Brighton. At the age of just 19 still, he has bags of potential and will only get better. He has a bright future ahead of him and is still developing his game.

Frank’s side snapped up Mohamed Kudus from West Ham to bolster their attacking department. He was brought in to add more competition and depth to their attacking department. The forward will be looking to show what he can do again against Wolves.

On the other side, Johnson could keep his position ahead of Wilson Odobert after starting against Doncaster. The ex-Nottingham Forest man injects experience and pace into the team. He scored the winner in the Europa League final against Manchester United back in May and will always be remembered for that massive contribution now.

Spurs are poised to go with Richarlison up top. The Brazilian has enjoyed a new lease of life so far under Frank and seems to be enjoying himself. He scored against Brighton last Saturday and will be eyeing more goals to add to his tally.

Tottenham Hotspur have the opportunity to bring in some new faces in the January transfer window

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Tottenham Hotspur delved into the transfer market over the summer to bolster their ranks. They signed the likes of Joao Palhinha, Xavier Simons and Mohamed Kudus, among others, to boost their squad. Thomas Frank was picked as their head coach after their decision to part ways with Ange Postecoglou, who is now at Nottingham Forest.

Spurs fought back from 2-0 down away at Brighton and Hove Albion in their last Premier League outing to draw 2-2. Richarlison got another goal against the Seagulls. Meanwhile, Jan Paul van Hecke scored an own goal for the hosts. They then beat Doncaster Rovers last time out in the Carabao Cup.

Tottenham Hotspur eye Ruben Neves

Spurs were contacted about signing Al-Hilal midfielder Ruben Neves along with Manchester United and Newcastle United in the summer and are being ‘kept informed’ about his availability ahead of January, according to TBR Football. He has been playing his football in Saudi Arabia since 2023. His contract in the Middle East at the end of the season so his long-term future is up in the air.

Reporter Graeme Bailey has told TBR Football: “I am told that Neves thinks there is ‘unfinished’ business in England – he had a wonderful time at Molineux and he is still highly respected. But it is not a given that he moves back to England.

“A return to Portugal would be considered whilst there is strong interest in Spain and Italy too – he is not going to be short of options. It is believed that Neves, given his substantial earnings during his stay in Saudi Arabia, won’t be looking for similar wages – he is in a good position that he will be able to choose the best club for him – this move will not be about the finances.”

Would Ruben Neves suit Tottenham Hotspur?

Spurs could see Neves as someone to bolster their midfield department. If he joined, he would give them more competition and depth in the middle of the park. He is someone who knows the league already and has experience.

The Portugal international, who has 59 caps under his belt, rose up through the academy at FC Porto. He was a regular for the Portuguese giants at various different youth levels as a youngster. He went on to play 93 games for their first-team and scored four goals before heading over to England.

Wolves made headlines by snapping him up whilst they were still in the Championship. Neves helped the Midlands outfit win promotion from the second tier at the first time of asking under the guidance of Nuno Espirito Santo. He then adapted well to life in the top flight and was one of their key players before Al-Hilal swooped in.

Neves made 253 appearances, 219 came in the Premier League, for his former team and found the net on 30 occasions. He was a popular figure during his days at Molineux and they were disappointed to see him leave. The player couldn’t turn down the sort of money that was on offer in the Saudi Pro League though.

Tottenham made easy work of Doncaster Rovers, with Thomas Frank managing to rotate a little.

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Tottenham cruised into the fourth round of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night after seeing off League One side Doncaster Rovers at home. Joao Palhinha and Brennan Johnson were on target either side of an own goal to help their side to a 3-0 win, and Thomas Frank’s men already know their reward.

Spurs will face current holders Newcastle United in the next round, with the draw not proving particularly kind. One of the most exciting parts of the win over Doncaster was the introduction of Luca Williams-Barnett off the bench, who made his debut at only 16 years of age.

After the game, fellow youngster Archie Gray, who saw plenty of game time last season, spoke about his excitement for the youngster, who could have a big future ahead of him.

“If he had 10 more minutes, he could have scored,” Gray told SpursPlay. “I said to him at the end that if he had just a few more chances to get at the full-back. We see him in training, and he is so sharp. It's so exciting to see young player like that come through and get given chances. I know what it's like, so I'll be helping him along the way.”

Gray has struggled for game time so far this season, with Frank upping the competition with the signing of Palhinha, leaving Gray more of a supplementary option.

“Obviously, I want to play every minute, but this manager is unbelievable,” the 19-year-old Gray added with humility. “Learning off him and every manager I've had is something I always do. I'm working hard every minute to try to get in the team, but competition is what you need at a top club. We are going to compete in all four of these competitions and we need a big squad for that, so I need to be ready whenever I'm called upon.

“We have such a young squad and one that is ready to learn. But we are competing and not just learning. We're not losing those games like Brighton, to come back and get a result, that shows how we are learning.”

What Frank said

Speaking after the game, Spurs boss Frank said of the win: “I’m happy with the win, happy with the clean sheet, very happy that we’re in the hat for the next round – that was the aim. I thought the first half was good, happy with that performance. I thought we started well, created chances, opportunities, up 2-0, could have scored one or two goals more.

“The second half was more disjointed. We threw the ball away too easily, the pressure was not top, and Doncaster did well. Always respect the opponent that made it difficult, they either dropped short or played long, but in the end, we did the job.

“We always want to, completely, how can I say… stay on top in all games, but that’s why it’s so complicated. There is an opponent who also wants to play. 'It’s Doncaster, we need to beat them', all that, but it’s never that easy. Overall, I’m happy with a convincing win, I would love to have even more in the second half.”

The Spurs manager has employed a very specific tactic when facing Newcastle United at Brentford in the past.

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Tottenham Hotspur will face Newcastle United in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup in an enticing fixture drawn following the victory over Doncaster Rovers on Wednesday evening.

Thomas Frank’s side progressed to the next round of the competition with the 3-0 triumph over the League One side in front of home support. The Magpies won 4-1 over third tier outfit Bradford City took book their place in the fourth round as they look to retain the cup.

Spurs met Newcastle United during pre-season, when they played out a 1-1 draw at the start of August. Frank is yet to face the Tyneside club in competitive action with the first league meeting in the calendar for the start of December.

Tottenham Hotspur to face Newcastle United in Carabao Cup

The former Brentford manager has gone up against Newcastle United ten times as a manager, but has won just two of those matches. Frank has lost seven as Bees boss, drawing one. His last win over the opposition came in December 2024 with a 4-2 triumph at the Gtech Community Stadium.

Frank has been positive when talking about the work of Eddie Howe at St James’ Park but, in 2023, acknowledged implementing a specific tactic to try and counteract the work of Howe’s coaching staff. Brentford did go on to lose that match 2-1 with Joelinton and Alexander Isak on the scoresheet for the Magpies.

Speaking after the result, Frank said: “We also, on purpose, were a little bit more active towards the fourth official today. Again, we’re talking about consistency. We know that Newcastle have the strategy. Jason Tindall always speaks in the fourth official’s ear throughout the game. We just have to be aware of that.”

Eddie Howe on Magpies ‘dark arts’

It remains to be seen whether Frank employs the same tactic on his trip to St James’ Park with Tottenham Hotspur for the cup tie. Howe was unfazed by Frank’s words at the time.

He said: “I don't even know what the dark arts are. If someone could explain that to me, that would be great. I've said many times we just do what we can to try and win, but always within the rules of the game.

“It shouldn't have an impact on referees. They should just referee the game as they see it.

“As I say, someone has to sit down and explain the dark arts. Erik [ten Hag] made his comments quite clear about time-wasting, but we don't want that in any game. We want to try and impose ourselves, have a quick game, and have the ball in play. United's critics have pointed to the club’s ball-in-play statistics. I understand the statistic that our ball is in play the least, but that could be due to a number of reasons, not us slowing the game down.”

In other news, Tottenham ready to battle Newcastle United for 'robust and present' Bundesliga star.

Tottenham are said to be interested in a player who is also said to be attracting interest from Premier League rivals.

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Tottenham are said to be interested in a move for a reliable attacking midfielder who could be a replacement for the injured James Maddison. Xavi SImons was snapped up to fill that role, although the Dutchman can also play out wide, offering versatility along the attacking line.

But even with the signing of Simons, there has been talk that Tottenham are still interested in signing a new attacking midfielder to add additional depth, with Maddison out for much of the season.

One potential option is Borussia Dortmund attacker Julian Brandt, who has been a very reliable operator since his arrival in 2019. The 48-time Germany international is currently on track to be out of contract next summer, and still only 29 years of age, he could be in line for a big pay day if he decides to move on.

According to Caughtoffside, Spurs are showing an interest ahead of January, with Aston Villa and Newcastle United also linked. Brandt is valued at £21.8million by Transfermarkt, although he is likely worth more in the real world, but all three clubs will be interested in a cut-price deal given his contract situation. All three clubs are also able to agree a pre-contract agreement ahead of a free transfer in the summer should Brandt want to remain in place until the end of the season.

Naturally, Dortmund could look to circumvent all of that with a new contract, and they will not want to lose the Germany international for cheap or free.

Dortmund boss Niko Kovac said of Brandt in March: “I have said on several occasions what I think about him. He can make a difference and he will keep this standing. It is my player. I want Jule to feel my trust and I think that is what he is doing. He will surely get back there where we see him. That only works over minutes. We need Jule. He is part of this club."

Back in 2023, Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck said: “Jule, along with Jude Bellingham, has been our standout player so far this season. He’s having an outstanding season.”

Former Dortmund star Sebastian Kehl also said at the time: “Julian (Brandt) has made some great strides in his development. He is much more stable, robust and present. We always knew that he was a great football player. Now he’s showing it over a sustained period of time.”

As for Spurs, they will be without Maddison for much of the season, with the attacking midfielder having suffered a ruptured ACL coming into the new campaign. They could need more cover in that number 10 role, but Lucas Bergvall has started the season very well, and Spurs are yet to give Simons a run of games in his best position up to this point. It will be interesting to see how things look come January and what Frank decides to focus on when it comes to recruitment.

Mikey Moore is spending the season on loan at Rangers from Tottenham Hotspur.

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Tottenham Hotspur star Mikey Moore is being courted by Wales over a potential switch of international allegiance from England.

The 18-year-old is on loan at Scottish Premiership outfit Rangers this season having broken through into the Spurs first team under Ange Postecoglou. Moore had featured in pre-season under Frank but was sent north of the border to gain more experience.

Moore has represented the England under-19 side but has not yet earned a senior cap. He could represent Wales as he qualifies through a grandparent.

Mikey Moore wanted by Wales

BBC Sport Wales reports that the Football Association of Wales has contacted the midfielder and that head coach Craig Bellamy has personally spoken to the Spurs star. Moore is the youngest player to have played for Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League, having made his debut at 16 years and 277 days in May 2024.

Moore has 21 first team Tottenham Hotspur appearances to his name, scoring in the 3-0 Europa League win over Elfsborg. There is no rush for him to make a decision over his international future.

As of 2020, players can still switch international allegiance prior to the age of 21 and having played no more than three competitive matches for a senior international side. It is unlikely that Moore would be part of Thomas Tuchel’s England plans for the World Cup next summer but it would be more likely that he could represent Wales, should Bellamy’s side qualify.

The midfielder has made six appearances for Rangers this season but is yet to score his first goal with the team winless in the Scottish Premiership. He did pick up an assist in the Scottish League Cup game against Alloa Athletic last month.

Ben Davies praise for Tottenham Hotspur youngster

Should Moore choose to represent Wales, he would join Tottenham Hotspur teammates Brennan Johnson and Ben Davies in doing so. The latter has spoken very positively about Moore’s development in north London.

Last season, Davies said: “Yeah, look, this is nothing new to us. We see it every day in training, Mikey [Moore] works so hard every single day to get these opportunities so when they come, we had no doubts that they’d be ready. I thought he was very good tonight.”

In other news, Tottenham told player will be 'very happy' to complete summer transfer.

Tottenham Hotspur have the chance to land the player on a full-time basis down the line

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Tottenham Hotspur delved into the transfer market over the summer to bolster their ranks. They signed the likes of Joao Palhinha, Xavier Simons and Mohamed Kudus, among others, to boost their squad. Thomas Frank was picked as their head coach after their decision to part ways with Ange Postecoglou, who is now at Nottingham Forest.

Spurs fought back from 2-0 down away at Brighton and Hove Albion in their last Premier League outing to draw 2-2. Richarlison got another goal against the Seagulls. Meanwhile, Jan Paul van Hecke scored an own goal for the hosts.

Tottenham Hotspur ready to sign Joao Palhinha

According to TBR Football, Spurs are ‘ready’ to sign Joao Palhinha from Bayern Munich on a permanent deal. They have an option to buy the player for £27million down the line. He has made a positive impression since his switch in the last window.

Palhinha, 30, was brought in by the London outfit to add more quality to their midfield department. He provides them with more competition and depth in the middle of the park. The Portugal international, who has 36 caps to his name, has made a positive impression so far.

He first moved to England in 2022 when Fulham came calling and he became a hit with the Whites. Prior to his switch to Craven Cottage, he spent six years at Sporting Lisbon. He was lured over to Germany by Bayern last year and played 25 games for the Bundesliga giants before he departed on a temporary basis for the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Will Tottenham Hotspur sign Joao Palhinha permanently?

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Tottenham Hotspur are back in action in the Carabao Cup this week

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Tottenham Hotspur face League One new boys Doncaster Rovers in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night. Thomas Frank’s side will progress to the fourth round if they can see off Grant McCann’s men. The London outfit head into the game off the back of their 2-2 away draw against Brighton and Hove Albion in the Premier League over the weekend.

Spurs were 2-0 down at the AMEX Stadium before they fought back. Richarlison managed to get himself on the scoresheet against the Seagulls. Meanwhile, Jan Paul van Hecke scored an own goal for the hosts as the spoils were shared in the end.

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Tottenham Hotspur cut ties with the player at the end of last season

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Tottenham Hotspur fought back from 2-0 down away at Brighton and Hove Albion over the weekend to draw 2-2 in the Premier League. Richarlison was on the scoresheet for Thomas Frank’s side at the AMEX Stadium. Meanwhile, Jan Paul van Hecke scored an own goal for the Seagulls.

Thomas Frank was picked as Spurs’ head coach over the summer. Prior to his move to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, he caught the eye at Brentford. He has since made a largely positive impression with his new team and they are sat in 3rd in the table behind Liverpool and Arsenal.

Update emerges regarding ex-Tottenham Hotspur man Sergio Reguilon

According to Football Insider, Sergio Reguilon is attracting ‘interest’ from Everton after his exit from Spurs. He is a free agent and has been weighing up his options over recent times. The left-back has a big decision to make on where he wants to go next.

Journalist Pete O’Rourke has shared this update on the Inside Track podcast: “He’s had a disappointing couple of years, Reguilon, after he couldn’t establish himself in the Spurs team. He had a couple of loan spells away at Man United and Brentford, but again didn’t really rip up any trees on those loan moves.

“A lot will depend on whether any Premier League clubs are in desperate needs of reinforcements at the back due to injury issues. Right now, I think probably more likely is that maybe Reguilon could end up returning to his native Spain, where there’s been talk of interest from his old club Sevilla and Real Sociedad as well.

“So I think that’s probably going to be more likely for Reguilon if he is to move soon. But you never know what’s around the corner, if a Premier League clubs picks up injuries or suspensions and are in desperate need of reinforcements, Reguilon could be somebody they turn to.”

What now for Sergio Reguilon after Tottenham Hotspur exit?

Everton could see Reguilon as someone to boost their defensive department. If he joined the Toffees, he would give them more competition and depth at the back. A move to Merseyside would see him stay put in England.

The defender seems to have other options on the table in Spain though with Sevilla and Real Sociedad mentioned as potential suitors. Therefore, that may be something that turns his head. He had a loan spell at Atletico Madrid a couple of years ago.

Reguilon was snapped up by Spurs in 2020 to bolster their backline. Prior to his transfer to London, he had spent his entire career to date at Real Madrid. He went on to play 73 games during his time with his previous club and chipped in with three goals from the back, as well as having temporary stints away at Manchester United and Brentford.

His departure from Spurs freed up space and funds in their ranks which helped pave the way for reinforcements under Frank. They may well play against him soon if he ends up going to Everton. However, the Toffees face competition from elsewhere.