CaughtOffside

Tottenham Hotspur are not panicking over James Maddison’s future, despite the midfielder entering the final two years of his contract and facing fresh questions over his place in Roberto De Zerbi’s team.

The 29-year-old has endured a difficult period with injuries, including the serious ACL problem that kept him out for more than a year.

Since returning, Maddison has struggled to build consistent momentum and has not yet fully re-established himself as an automatic starter.

Even so, Spurs are understood to remain calm about his situation.

Tottenham not concerned over Maddison future

According to Football Insider, Tottenham are not currently worried about Maddison’s contract, which runs until 2028, and there is no sense that the club are under immediate pressure to make a decision.

There have been doubts over his role because of his recent injury problems and the growing competition for places in midfield.

Tottenham now have several options in that area, including Xavi Simons, Conor Gallagher, Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, meaning Maddison can no longer assume he will start whenever fit.

However, Spurs still value his experience, personality and creativity, particularly during a difficult period for the team.

Maddison still has plenty to offer for Spurs

The biggest issue here is probably fitness rather than quality.

Maddison missed more than a year of competitive football after suffering major knee problems, so expecting him to immediately return to his best would be unrealistic.

Roberto De Zerbi has already made that point publicly. Speaking about Maddison’s return, the Spurs boss said the midfielder needs a consistent run of training before reaching his best, adding that “his personality, his characteristics, his quality and his experience” are important to the team, according to Tottenham’s official website.

That remains the key. Tottenham do not need to rush into offering Maddison a new contract, but they should not rush him towards the exit either.

At 29, he still has time to make a major contribution if his body allows it. His creativity also gives Spurs something different from many of their more athletic midfield options.

The next few months should therefore be about rebuilding rhythm rather than debating his future.

If Maddison can stay fit and start influencing games again, the contract conversation will look very different by next summer.

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly interested in signing Cruzeiro goalkeeper Otavio as they assess potential reinforcements between the posts ahead of the upcoming transfer windows.

According to Fussball News, Spurs are among the Premier League clubs closely monitoring the Brazilian youngster, who has attracted attention from several European sides after impressive performances in South America.

Otavio could be an exciting addition for Tottenham

The 20-year-old has enjoyed a remarkable rise at Cruzeiro, becoming a first-team regular after taking advantage of an injury to experienced goalkeeper Cassio.

His performances in the Copa Libertadores and high-profile domestic fixtures have impressed scouts, with his reflexes, composure, and distribution making him an attractive prospect for European clubs.

Tottenham could view Otavio as a potential long-term investment as they consider their goalkeeping options. His ability to make crucial saves and contribute to the build-up would suit the demands of modern football, potentially giving Spurs another option for the future.

Nottingham Forest are also pursuing the goalkeeper after an unsuccessful summer attempt to sign him. Porto, Napoli and Borussia Dortmund have reportedly been monitoring his development as well, increasing the competition for his signature.

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Tottenham face difficult negotiations for Otavio

However, convincing Cruzeiro to sanction his departure will not be straightforward. The Brazilian club rejected Nottingham Forest’s reported €13 million offer and subsequently strengthened their negotiating position by extending Otavio’s contract until 2031.

His new deal includes a €100 million release clause for foreign clubs, although Cruzeiro are reportedly seeking an initial fee of between €25 million and €30 million in negotiations.

The Brazilian side are reluctant to lose a promising goalkeeper midway through the season, meaning interested clubs may need to present an attractive financial package to make progress.

Tottenham will therefore need to assess whether the youngster represents the right investment. With several European clubs tracking his progress, Spurs could face a competitive transfer battle if they decide to formalise their interest.

A move to England could offer Otavio an exciting opportunity, but Cruzeiro’s firm stance means negotiations are likely to prove challenging.

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly interested in signing Freiburg attacking midfielder Yuito Suzuki as Roberto De Zerbi looks to strengthen his attacking options ahead of the January transfer window.

According to a report from Fussball News, Spurs are among the leading contenders to secure the Japanese international’s signature, with AC Milan also exploring the possibility of bringing him in.

Yuito Suzuki could be an ideal attacking addition

The 24-year-old has impressed since joining Freiburg from Brondby, establishing himself as one of the Bundesliga club’s most exciting attacking players. His technical ability, creativity and versatility have attracted attention from several European clubs.

Suzuki can play as an attacking midfielder, second striker, or on either flank, making him an appealing option for Tottenham. His ability to find space in congested areas and contribute goals could give De Zerbi more tactical flexibility in the final third.

Spurs could benefit from another creative player, particularly as they look to improve attacking consistency across multiple competitions. Suzuki’s mobility and ability to influence matches in different positions could make him a valuable addition to the north London outfit.

AC Milan are also keen on the midfielder, while Real Sociedad are monitoring his progress. Scouts from interested clubs have reportedly watched him in action this season, increasing the competition for his signature.

Tottenham face €45m hurdle for Suzuki

However, convincing Freiburg to sanction his departure will not be straightforward. The German club reportedly value Suzuki at between €40 million and €45 million and have no intention of losing an important attacking player midway through the campaign.

Freiburg are in a strong negotiating position, with Suzuki’s contract reportedly containing no active release clause. The Bundesliga side can therefore determine their own terms if a formal offer arrives.

Tottenham and Milan are reportedly considering proposals worth about €35 million, including potential performance-related bonuses. However, that figure falls short of Freiburg’s reported demands.

Spurs may need to improve their offer to win the race for Suzuki. As competition grows, his future could become one of the most intriguing transfer stories in the coming months.

Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are both keeping a close eye on Xavi Espart, but Barcelona have already taken major steps to make sure the 19-year-old does not leave cheaply.

The La Masia graduate has emerged as one of the most exciting young full-backs in Spain, attracting attention through his technical quality, tactical intelligence and ability to operate in several positions.

Arsenal and Tottenham are among the Premier League clubs monitoring him closely, but Espart’s new Barcelona contract includes a release clause worth more than €100million, showing just how highly the Catalan giants rate him.

Arsenal and Tottenham scouting Espart

Sources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside that Arsenal and Tottenham have both watched Espart live and compiled detailed scouting reports on the defender.

Aston Villa, Borussia Dortmund and Juventus are also following his progress, although there have been no formal negotiations.

Barcelona handed Espart a long-term professional contract running until June 2030 on July 1, 2026.

As part of the agreement, the club inserted a release clause exceeding €100m to protect one of their brightest academy prospects.

His current market value is around €25m, but Barcelona would reportedly need an offer in the region of €40m-€50m plus bonuses before they would even consider entering discussions.

Espart looks ideal for Arsenal, but €100m clause is massive

Arsenal’s interest is particularly easy to understand. Mikel Arteta likes defenders who are comfortable stepping into midfield, and Espart’s passing ability, positional awareness and versatility fit that profile perfectly.

Tottenham could also see him as a potential long-term option, especially with Pedro Porro attracting interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Hansi Flick has already spoken glowingly about Espart, saying: “When I watch Xavi Espart play, I like his confidence on the ball. He reminds me of Philipp Lahm.” His comments were reported by Football España.

That comparison explains why Barcelona are so determined to protect him.

The €100m-plus release clause does not necessarily mean Arsenal or Tottenham would actually have to pay that amount. But it gives Barcelona enormous negotiating power and makes a January move extremely unlikely.

For now, both north London clubs are watching rather than negotiating. If Espart continues developing at his current rate, though, those scouting reports could eventually turn into serious transfer interest.

Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly interested in signing Club Brugge striker Nicolo Tresoldi after his outstanding Champions League form has drawn attention from several European heavyweights.

According to a Sport Witness report, Arsenal are among the leading contenders to sign the 23-year-old, although Tottenham are also monitoring his progress ahead of a potential transfer.

Nicolo Tresoldi attracts Premier League interest

The Italian-born forward has enjoyed an impressive spell in Belgium since joining Club Brugge from Hannover, and his recent hat-trick against Inter Milan has further strengthened his reputation as one of Europe’s exciting attacking prospects.

Tresoldi played a decisive role in Brugge’s thrilling 4-3 victory over the Italian giants, demonstrating his finishing ability and composure in front of goal. His performances have attracted interest from several clubs, with Arsenal and Tottenham both assessing the possibility of bringing him to England.

Arsenal could see Tresoldi as a long-term solution up front, particularly if Viktor Gyokeres’ future at the Emirates becomes uncertain. Mikel Arteta could benefit from adding another reliable goalscorer as the Gunners look to stay competitive across multiple competitions.

Tottenham, meanwhile, are also keen to strengthen their attacking department. Tresoldi’s physical qualities, movement and eye for goal could make him an attractive option for Spurs as they look to improve their effectiveness in the final third.

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Club Brugge demand €60m for Tresoldi

However, convincing Club Brugge to sanction his departure will not be straightforward. The Belgian club reportedly rejected a €35 million offer from Roma in the summer and valued the striker at around €60 million.

His recent Champions League heroics could push that valuation even higher, making negotiations difficult for interested clubs.

Arsenal and Tottenham will also face competition from Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, who have reportedly been monitoring the forward.

With several European giants tracking his development, Tresoldi could become a major transfer target in the coming windows. Arsenal’s existing relationship with Club Brugge may prove useful, but Tottenham could yet challenge their London rivals for his signature.

Tottenham Hotspur have received another encouraging boost regarding Dejan Kulusevski, with the Swedish international looking sharp in the club’s latest training footage as he edges closer to his long-awaited return.

The 26-year-old has been sidelined for more than 500 days with a complicated knee injury, leaving Spurs without one of their most influential attacking players for an extended period.

However, Tottenham correspondent Alasdair Gold has highlighted several promising moments from the club’s latest training video, including Kulusevski scoring from a cross delivered by summer signing Andy Robertson.

Alasdair Gold spots Dejan Kulusevski scoring from Andy Robertson cross

Writing for Football London, Alasdair Gold highlighted key moments from the club’s released training footage where Kulusevski caught the eye:

“One of those areas of caution has certainly been around Dejan Kulusevski, despite the excitement about potentially seeing the Swede back in action soon after more than 500 days out with his complicated patella injury in his right knee.

“The 26-year-old looked sharp in the training footage, playing a key part in rondos as the man in the middle taking all the passes and moving the ball on as others tried to get in the way.

“He also could be seen firing home a goal from Andy Robertson’s low cross during a training game.”

Kulusevski’s sharp movement and clinical finishing in small-sided drills signal that he is building up full match sharpness under manager Roberto De Zerbi.

Dejan Kulusevski closing in on long-awaited Tottenham return

Kulusevski has endured a frustrating spell on the sidelines since suffering a serious injury involving the patella in his right knee.

The Sweden international has been unavailable for more than 500 days, with Tottenham taking a cautious approach to his rehabilitation.

Although his recovery has progressed significantly, De Zerbi and the club’s medical staff have been careful not to rush him back into competitive action.

Kulusevski recently travelled with the Tottenham squad for their 1-1 draw against Manchester United at Old Trafford, although he was not involved in the matchday squad.

His presence was primarily intended to support his teammates as he continued working towards full fitness.

Tottenham will want to ensure he is fully prepared before handing him his first competitive minutes following such a lengthy layoff.

Roberto De Zerbi could receive major attacking boost

Kulusevski’s potential return would be particularly welcome for Tottenham, who have endured a difficult start to the Premier League season.

The Swedish international offers creativity, ball-carrying ability and versatility across several attacking positions.

De Zerbi has previously indicated that he sees Kulusevski primarily as a number 10, although the former Juventus winger is also capable of operating on the right flank.

His ability to receive possession between the lines and create opportunities for teammates could provide Spurs with another attacking dimension.

The developing understanding with Robertson, demonstrated by their combination in training, is another encouraging sign.

Tottenham captain Micky van de Ven has named former talisman Harry Kane as the one player he would love the club to re-sign in a dream transfer move.

The defender’s glowing endorsement is sure to resonate strongly with Spurs supporters as the North London side searches for inspiration during a challenging domestic campaign.

Micky van de Ven names Harry Kane as player Spurs should sign

Speaking in a recent interview with ESPN FC, Van de Ven was asked to choose one player in world football he would bring to North London if given complete transfer authority.

Without hesitation, the Dutch center-back singled out Kane, highlighting the Bayern Munich striker’s unparalleled goalscoring record and legendary standing at the club.

“I’d bring back Harry (Kane) man. He guarantees 30 goals every year. He’s the greatest Tottenham player of all time,” Van de Ven revealed.

The Dutch defender’s comments underscore the respect Kane commands across the squad.

Although Van de Ven joined Tottenham shortly after Kane’s landmark move to Germany, the current Spurs captain clearly recognizes the transformative influence England’s record goalscorer could bring to Roberto De Zerbi’s team.

Harry Kane remains Tottenham’s greatest-ever goalscorer

Kane established himself as a Tottenham legend during an extraordinary career in North London.

Having progressed through the club’s academy, the England captain developed into one of the most prolific strikers in Premier League history.

He scored 280 goals in all competitions for Spurs, surpassing Jimmy Greaves to become the club’s all-time leading goalscorer.

Of those, 213 came in the Premier League, leaving Kane second on the competition’s all-time scoring list behind Alan Shearer.

The striker also won three Premier League Golden Boots during his Tottenham career, finishing as the division’s leading scorer in 2015/16, 2016/17 and 2020/21.

His remarkable 2020/21 campaign was particularly impressive, as he finished the season with both the most goals and the most assists in the Premier League.

Despite his individual achievements, Kane was unable to win a major trophy during his time at Tottenham before completing his move to Bayern Munich.

He has since continued his prolific goalscoring form in Germany, further strengthening his reputation as one of Europe’s finest centre-forwards.

Pedro Porro’s future at Tottenham Hotspur is becoming increasingly uncertain, with the Spain international reportedly considering a return to La Liga.

The 27-year-old only signed a new Spurs contract until 2031 during the summer, but Tottenham’s difficult start to the season appears to have changed the mood around his future.

Barcelona and Real Madrid are both monitoring the situation, with Madrid now believed to be particularly alert to the possibility of signing him.

Tottenham right-back Porro wants La Liga return

According to Cadena SER, Porro wants to return to Spanish football despite committing his long-term future to Tottenham only a few months ago.

Barcelona are understood to have already contacted the player’s camp, with Porro attracted by the possibility of playing alongside Lamine Yamal after the pair impressed together for Spain at the World Cup.

Real Madrid are also interested. They previously monitored Porro before signing Denzel Dumfries, but his situation has returned to their attention amid doubts over their right-back options.

Porro’s preference is reportedly Barcelona, although he would not rule out a move to Madrid.

Spurs cannot afford to lose one of their best attacking outlets

This would be a major problem for Spurs.

Porro remains one of the most productive attacking full-backs in the Premier League, and his crossing, energy and ability to create from deeper areas give Tottenham something difficult to replace.

Teammate Pape Matar Sarr has previously described him as a “great player”, adding: “For me, he’s in the top five right-backs in the world.” Tottenham’s official website confirmed those comments.

That praise explains why Spurs should fight hard to keep him. The club’s poor start under Roberto De Zerbi does not help, though. If Tottenham continue struggling near the bottom of the table, players of Porro’s quality will inevitably start looking at alternatives.

His long contract gives Spurs negotiating power, so any deal would be expensive.

But if both Barcelona and Real Madrid remain serious, Tottenham may eventually face a difficult choice: convince Porro the project is heading somewhere, or risk losing another important player.

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly in a strong position to sign Antonio Rudiger, as uncertainty over the defender’s future at Real Madrid could open the door to a return to the Premier League.

According to a Football Insider report, Spurs have emerged as a possible destination for the Germany international as his situation in the Spanish capital comes under scrutiny. The north London club could look to take advantage of the circumstances to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the next transfer window.

Tottenham could benefit from Rudiger’s experience

Rudiger has considerable experience at the highest level, having previously impressed in English football with Chelsea before moving to Real Madrid. His physicality, leadership qualities and ability to perform in demanding matches could make him an attractive addition to Tottenham’s backline.

The 33-year-old could also provide valuable experience to a defensive unit that may require reinforcements in the coming months. Tottenham face several key squad decisions, and an established international defender could appeal to the club’s recruitment team.

His Premier League experience could prove particularly valuable, helping him adapt quickly to English football if a move materialises. However, Spurs would need to consider his wages and the overall financial implications before making a formal approach.

Spurs could face competition for Rudiger

Tottenham could face competition if other interested clubs decide to pursue the former Chelsea star. His contract situation, wage demands, and personal ambitions are likely to shape where he plays next season.

A potential move to north London would let Rudiger return to familiar surroundings and keep competing in English football. His arrival could also strengthen Tottenham’s centre-back options, particularly if the club decides to change its defensive personnel.

Nevertheless, much will depend on Real Madrid’s plans and whether the Spanish giants are prepared to let the defender leave. Tottenham must also assess their existing defensive options before committing to a move.

For now, Rudiger’s future remains uncertain, with Spurs poised to make their move if the opportunity arises.

Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing Dinamo Zagreb striker Dion Beljo ahead of the January transfer window.

According to a TEAMtalk report, the Red Devils are monitoring the 24-year-old forward, who has drawn considerable attention after impressive performances in Croatia.

Other clubs keen on Beljo

Tottenham Hotspur and Everton are also keeping tabs on the Croatian international, with all three Premier League clubs assessing the possibility of bringing him to England in the winter transfer window.

Beljo has been in sensational form, scoring 12 goals in his last 14 appearances. His record includes 10 goals in just seven league matches for Dinamo Zagreb, and he has also scored for his country.

The towering 6ft 5in forward could be an interesting option for clubs looking to strengthen their attack. He also scored 38 goals in 48 appearances last season, showing he can deliver consistently in front of goal.

Man Utd are “never, ever going to win the Premier League” with these two players, says Scholes

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Manchester United face competition for Dion Beljo

Manchester United could use more firepower up front, with the club reportedly open to signing another forward to compete with Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha. Joshua Zirkzee’s future at Old Trafford remains uncertain, which could increase the need for reinforcements.

Beljo could be a useful addition, offering a physical presence in the final third alongside his goalscoring ability. However, the Red Devils will face competition from Tottenham and Everton if they pursue a deal.

Spurs could also benefit from adding another centre-forward, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Richarlison’s situation. Meanwhile, Everton need attacking reinforcements after failing to adequately replace Beto after he left for Fiorentina.

Brentford have also been monitoring Beljo, while Newcastle United, Leeds United and other European interests could further complicate the race.

It remains to be seen whether any of the interested clubs will formalise their interest with an offer in January. For now, Beljo’s impressive form has put him firmly on the radar of several Premier League sides, making his future one to watch.