CaughtOffside

Tottenham Hotspur captain Cristian Romero has delivered an honest and explosive assessment of the club’s situation following Spurs’ dramatic 2-2 Premier League draw with Manchester City, speaking out after the January transfer window closed with limited reinforcements arriving in north London.

The Argentine defender did not hide his disappointment, with sources close to the dressing room suggesting Romero feels Tottenham failed to adequately support head coach Thomas Frank during a critical period.

Tottenham’s resilience against Man City was undeniable. Trailing 2-0 late in the match, Spurs mounted an impressive comeback to secure a point, showcasing character and determination in the face of adversity.

However, the performance also showed how thin the squad has become.

At present, Tottenham are dealing with an injury list reportedly stretching to 13 players.

Key figures such as James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski, Mohammed Kudus, and Richarlison are all sidelined, leaving Frank to patch together line-ups with limited options.

Romero’s post-match comments have been interpreted as a direct challenge to the club’s hierarchy.

Cristian Romero’s honest assessment

He wrote on Instagram:

“Great effort from all my teammates yesterday ,they were incredible.

“I wanted to be available to help them even though I wasn’t feeling well, especially since we only had 11 players available — unbelievable but true and disgraceful.

“We’ll keep showing up and taking responsibility to turn this around, working hard and staying together.

“All that’s left is to thank all of you for being there and for always supporting us, the fans, @spursofficial.”

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A post shared by Cristian Romero (@cutiromero2)

Pressure mounts on Frank and Tottenham

Tottenham’s form under Frank has dipped in recent weeks, and while injuries provide context, results have left the club drifting away from other top clubs.

The captain’s anger reflects not just the strain of injuries, but a belief that the squad needed greater backing when it mattered most.

As Spurs push through the remainder of the season with a depleted group, how the club responds, both on and off the pitch, may prove decisive for Frank’s project.

Tottenham have reportedly reach an agreement to sign talented young Scottish striker James Wilson on loan ahead of rivals Arsenal.

According to Fabrizio Romano on X, Spurs now have a deal in place to sign the 18-year-old, with the Italian journalist giving the move his trademark “here we go!” to suggest it’s all but done.

Arsenal had also shown an interest in Wilson today, as per BBC Sport and others, but it now looks like Romano is convinced he’ll be off to Tottenham instead.

Fabrizio Romano on James Wilson to Tottenham transfer

See below for Romano’s X post about Wilson to Spurs…

??? James Wilson to Tottenham, here we go! Deal in place for Scottish 18 year old striker to join #THFC project.

Arsenal were offering a trial while Spurs offer loan deal with buy option clause now agreed with Hearts.

Medical happening now with formal steps next. pic.twitter.com/9BpSGuwDne

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 2, 2026

“James Wilson to Tottenham, here we go! Deal in place for Scottish 18 year old striker to join #THFC project. Arsenal were offering a trial while Spurs offer loan deal with buy option clause now agreed with Hearts. Medical happening now with formal steps next,” Romano said.

It seems Spurs’ offer was key here, with Wilson surely looking like he was better off choosing them for his career development.

Arsenal’s offer was more of a trial, whereas there seems to be a bit more security with his loan to Tottenham.

Even if Wilson isn’t the biggest name right now, THFC fans will hope he can prove to be a smart signing for the future.

The fact that Arsenal were also interested surely shows that Wilson is a big prospect who’s well worth taking a close look at.

Brahim Diaz has been linked with a move away from Real Madrid in recent weeks.

The 26-year-old has struggled for regular opportunities under Alvaro Arbeloa, and he needs to move on in order to play more often.

Spurs and Villa keen on Brahim Diaz

According to a report from TEAMtalk, Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa would be willing to provide him with an exit route. They have already made enquiries about the availability of the Moroccan international. It remains to be seen whether they submit an offer for him in the coming days.

The 26-year-old is a versatile attacker who is capable of operating anywhere across the front three. He will add goals and creativity to the team.

Diaz could improve both teams

Tottenham are in desperate need of more quality in the final third, and the Moroccan certainly fits the profile. He could be the ideal addition for them. They have missed a dynamic attacker like him since the departure of Son Heung-min.

The opportunity to join Tottenham will be exciting for the Moroccan as well. He will look to prove himself in the Premier League and play regularly with them.

On the other hand, Aston Villa have an exciting project. They are pushing for Champions League qualification, and they have a top-class manager like Unai Emery.

It will be interesting to see what the player decides if the two clubs come forward with an offer for him.

Meanwhile, the report claims that Newcastle United are also monitoring his situation and have contacted the player’s representatives to express their interest. They could use more depth in the final third, and the dynamic Moroccan could support the likes of Anthony Gordon and Anthony Elanga.

A late move in January is still very much possible, and it remains to be seen how the situation unfolds.

Raheem Sterling’s exit from Chelsea has shaken up the transfer market.

The England winger is now a free agent, and his representatives are holding talks with several clubs.

Several clubs are keen on Raheem Sterling

Sources have informed CaughtOffside that Tottenham have shown interest, but they’re not alone. London rivals West Ham, Fulham, and Crystal Palace are also in the race, with Sterling’s desire to stay in the capital for family reasons giving them an edge.

Fulham’s connection with Marco Silva, Palace’s squad planning, and West Ham’s need for attacking depth all make him an appealing option. Brentford’s name has also been mentioned, though financial constraints weaken their chances.

The key factor is Sterling’s willingness to take a huge pay cut. From earning €375,000 per week at Chelsea, he’s ready to sign for less than a third of that amount.

This flexibility has attracted interest from abroad as well, with Juventus, Napoli, Bayern Munich, and Roma all monitoring the situation. MLS clubs have made approaches too, but Sterling’s priority is to remain at the top level and, ideally, join a team competing in the Champions League.

Tottenham move could be ideal for Sterling

Sterling should look to join a club where he will play regularly. He has struggled for regular football in recent months. His time at Chelsea did not go according to plan; he scored 19 goals and recorded 15 assists in 81 appearances. He will look to return to his best with regular football. There is no doubt that he could be a very effective signing in the right team. He has tremendous quality and a wealth of experience playing at the highest level.

Tottenham need a dynamic attacker who can slot into multiple roles and contribute with goals and assists. The England International could be ideal for them.

He has won major trophies, including the Premier League, and his experience could prove invaluable for Tottenham.

Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing the former Aston Villa attacker Moussa Diaby.

Spurs are looking to add more quality in the final third before the January window closes, and the Frenchman could prove to be a quality acquisition. Diaby has shown his quality in the Premier League before, and he could make an immediate impact at the north London club.

Spurs keen on Moussa Diaby

Spurs need more quality on the flanks, and the Independent claims that they want the French attacker.

They need someone who can take on defenders and beat them in one-on-one situations. They need more creativity in the final third. The 26-year-old currently plays for Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad, but he is open to returning to a Champions League club this month. Tottenham have made it to the knockout round of the Champions League, and they could be an attractive destination for the player.

Inter Milan is also interested in the player. Tottenham will need to act quickly to get the deal done with just a few days left in the window. The Italian outfit is reportedly leading the race for his signature right now. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.

Diaby has been in fine form

Diaby has performed exceptionally well in the Saudi Pro League and helped his team win the league title last season. He picked up 15 assists in the league. Diaby has 8 goals and 27 assists for the Saudi Arabian club since joining.

There is no doubt that he has the physicality and technical attributes to do well at Spurs, and he could transform them in the final third. The opportunity to return to the Premier League will be exciting for him, and it remains to be seen whether Tottenham can get the deal done.

Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing the Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta.

The 28-year-old has been linked with the move away from Crystal Palace in recent weeks, and Spurs are prepared to secure his signature. According to Orazio Accomando of Sport MediaSet, Randal Kolo Muani could leave the club this month, with Mateta as his replacement.

Spurs working on Jean-Philippe Mateta deal

It remains to be seen whether Tottenham can get the deal done. The journalist has confirmed that Tottenham are ‘working to close’ the deal.

Mateta could be attracted to the idea of joining Tottenham. It would be a step up for him, and this is the ideal opportunity for him to join a bigger club and prove himself at a higher level.

Spurs need more depth in the attacking unit, and a Mateta could be useful for them. The French attacker has himself in the Premier League over the years, and he could make an immediate impact. He has registered 12 goal contributions this season. He could support Dominic Solanke in the attack.

Can Spurs sign Mateta?

Tottenham have had a disappointing season so far, and they will look to bounce back strongly. Signing the right players could help them do well during the second half of the season. Mateta knows the league well, and he could hit the ground running. It remains to be seen whether they can agree on a deal with Crystal Palace.

The French attacker has been linked with multiple clubs in recent weeks. He will be looking to sort out his long-term future quickly so that he can focus on his football once again. Joining a competitive club will be a priority for him, and Tottenham will be an attractive destination.

Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing Leon Goretzka from Bayern Munich.

According to Fichajes, the club has decided to sign the player this month and has already initiated direct contact with the midfielder. Atletico Madrid are interested in the player as well, but the London club is prepared to formally challenge them for the German International midfielder.

Tottenham want Leon Goretzka

Tottenham have requested detailed information about the German international, and it remains to be seen whether they can complete the deal. They believe the transfer is a priority to salvage the season. Goretzka earns €7 million per season at Bayern, making him an expensive acquisition for Tottenham.

Tottenham have intensified their efforts with contact on Wednesday, and it remains to be seen how the situation unfolds. The 30-year-old midfielder has attracted the attention of top European clubs, and there is no doubt that he would be a quality addition for Tottenham. He will add physicality, defensive steel, and drive in the middle of the park. He has proven himself in Germany and has the physicality and technical attributes for English football as well.

Goretzka to partner with Conor Gallagher?

Tottenham have already signed Conor Gallagher and believe Goretzka could be the ideal partner for them. The German International is not just a quality player; his leadership skills and winning experience could prove to be invaluable for the Tottenham dressing room.

Bayern Munich are yet to make a final decision on the player’s future, especially regarding a January transfer, and it remains to be seen what they decide.

The midfielder is at the peak of his career, and this could be an interesting challenge for him. The opportunity to play in the Premier League could be hard to turn down.

Spurs will certainly hope to get the deal done and that the German International can revitalise their midfield.

Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee has been linked with a move away from the club in recent weeks.

According to a report from Team Talk, the player’s representatives remain hopeful of securing a move away from Old Trafford before the window closes.

Crystal Palace and Tottenham are keen on the player, and it remains to be seen whether they can get the deal done.

The two London clubs have already enquired about the Netherlands striker’s versatility. It remains to be seen whether Manchester United are prepared to send the 24-year-old to a rival club.

Joshua Zirkzee needs a fresh start

Manchester United are unwilling to weaken the team in the middle of the season, and they are reluctant to sanction any exit. However, the player is ready to push for an exit this month. He wants to cement his place in the Netherlands’ World Cup squad, and he knows he needs regular game time to do so.

The move to Manchester United has not worked out for him; he has just 9 goals and 4 assists in 65 appearances. He is unlikely to play regularly for them, and a move away would be ideal for him.

Zirkzee could be useful

Tottenham need more depth in the final third, and Zirkzee could be a useful addition if he can regain his form and confidence. He could compete with Randal Kolo Muani and Dominic Solanke for the starting spot.

If Tottenham can provide him with assurances of game time, the move would be ideal for him. Similarly, Crystal Palace needs more depth in attack. Jean-Philippe Mateta has been linked with an exit, and they will need to replace the Frenchman if he moves on in January.

The Netherlands international is likely to get more opportunities at Crystal Palace and Tottenham. It remains to be seen how the situation unfolds.

Hayden Hackney has been linked with a move away from Middlesbrough in recent months, and Manchester United could be a potential destination.

Michael Carrick has been appointed as the inter manager at Old Trafford and he is reportedly keen on a reunion with the midfielder. Hackney was a key player for him when he was managing the Championship club. It will be interesting to see if Manchester United can get the deal done.

Newcastle United have also been linked with Hackney in the past.

Man United could use Hayden Hackney

They need more creativity and control in the middle of the park, and the 23-year-old could be useful for them. He has the quality to do well in the top flight, and the opportunity to move to Manchester United will be quite exciting for him.

Carrick’s presence at the helm will certainly give Manchester United an advantage in the transfer race. They will face competition from clubs like Tottenham Hotspur and Everton, as per TEAMtalk. It will be interesting to see if Manchester United can win the race for his signature.

Hackney could help Red Devils

The midfielder has nine goal contributions in the league this season, and he could help Manchester United create more opportunities from the middle of the park.

It remains to be seen whether Manchester United follow up on their interest with an official offer to sign the player. The Championship club will not want to lose the player easily, and they have set an asking price of £30 million. It will be interesting to see if Manchester United are ready to break the Bank for him.

On the other hand, Tottenham need a creative central midfielder like him, and they have the resources to pay up. It remains to be seen which of the two clubs can get the deal done.

Tottenham Hotspur are prepared to sell Alejo Veliz this month, and they have already agreed on a deal with Brazilian club Bahia.

According to a report from Alejo Gerbaudo, the two clubs have an ‘agreement’ on a fee of around €10 million for the attacker, but he is not keen on the move. He wants to compete in the Copa Libertadores with Rosario Central.

Veliz has been linked with other clubs in the past. He has had unsuccessful loan spells as well.

Alejo Veliz not keen on Bahia move

The striker is currently on loan at Rosario Central, and he came through the ranks at the Argentine club before joining Tottenham. The 22-year-old failed to establish himself as an important player at the Premier League club, and he has made just one senior appearance with them. It is clear that he does not have a future at Tottenham, and it would be ideal for him to leave them permanently.

The Brazilian club is prepared to provide him with a permanent exit this month, but he wants to stay at his boyhood club. It will be interesting to see whether all parties can reach an agreement.

Veliz has done well for Rosario Central

Veliz has scored 24 goals in 79 matches for Rosario Central, and he has the quality to develop into a clinical striker. Playing regularly at his boyhood club could be ideal for his development right now. He is clearly enjoying his football in his comfort zone.

However, Tottenham are looking to offload the player and recoup some money from his departure. They have already agreed on a deal with the Brazilian club, and Bahia will now have to convince the striker. It remains to be seen how the situation develops.

It will be interesting to see if Rosario Central is willing to make a permanent move for him. That could be ideal for the player as well.