CaughtOffside

Newcastle United are looking for reinforcements in the January transfer window and the player on their radar is Giovani Lo Celso of Real Betis, according to Fichajes.

Lo Celso’s future appears increasingly uncertain as the former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder continues to struggle for consistency in La Liga, sparking fresh speculation about a potential return to the Premier League.

The Argentine playmaker, once tipped as one of South America’s most technically gifted midfielders, has endured a difficult campaign so far, managing just one goal in 13 league appearances.

Despite his underwhelming numbers this season, Lo Celso’s underlying qualities remain widely admired across Europe.

Newcastle United are ready to make January signings

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is looking to add new players in the January transfer window to add depth and quality of his squad.

Lo Celso could be available for around €25 million (£22 million), a figure that many within the game would consider modest given his pedigree and international experience.

For Newcastle, who are looking to add creativity and depth to their midfield without breaching financial regulations, the Argentine could represent a potential bargain, provided they can rediscover the version of Lo Celso that once lit up Ligue 1 with Paris Saint-Germain and showed flashes of brilliance at Tottenham.

During his time in north London, Lo Celso never truly established himself as a guaranteed starter, often oscillating between impressive performances and lengthy periods of injury or loss of form.

Eddie Howe needs depth in defensive areas

From Newcastle’s perspective, this makes any move a calculated risk. Howe’s side have already invested heavily in midfield in recent windows and cannot afford another high-profile signing who fails to deliver sustained impact.

While Lo Celso would be a short term solution for the Newcastle United midfield, it is still a move that comes with risk and something that Howe and his recruitment team should avoid at this stage.

More than the midfield, they need additions in the defensive department, particularly after the injuries suffered by Kieran Trippier, Dan Burn, Emil Krafth and others.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has issued a defiant hands-off warning to Tottenham Hotspur and other suitors, insisting goalkeeper James Trafford will “absolutely” remain at the Etihad Stadium beyond the January transfer window.

Speculation surrounding the 23-year-old’s future has intensified in recent weeks, with Tottenham Hotspur reportedly identifying Trafford as a potential solution to their own goalkeeping crisis.

Spurs’ current number one, Guglielmo Vicario, has come under increasing scrutiny following a string of high-profile errors, prompting rumors that Thomas Frank’s side could launch a mid-season bid for City’s backup shot-stopper.

However, despite Trafford’s struggle for minutes since his £27 million return to Manchester City in the summer, Guardiola has moved quickly to shut down any talk of an exit.

Pep Guardiola says James Trafford is not for sale in January

Speaking ahead of Manchester City’s League Cup quarter-final clash against Brentford, where Trafford is expected to start, Guardiola was unequivocal about the goalkeeper’s immediate future.

When asked if there was any chance of Trafford leaving in the upcoming window, Guardiola told reporters (via ESPN): “James Trafford stays in January. He’s staying with us this season, absolutely.

“He’s an incredible keeper. Unfortunately for him, Gianluigi is the first-choice keeper, but he is an incredible keeper. I know the position of the keeper is so special, and during the year, in one game, you can change.”

?? Pep Guardiola: “James Trafford stays in January. He’s staying with us this season, absolutely”. pic.twitter.com/RpLyLLiRxq

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 16, 2025

Vicario has been poor this season for Tottenham

Since arriving at Tottenham from Empoli in 2023, Guglielmo Vicario’s spell in north London has been a mixed one.

The imposing Italian has delivered standout moments, showcasing sharp shot-stopping and some incredible leadership qualities.

Particularly last season, he played a key role in Spurs’ 2024/25 Europa League campaign, contributing significantly to their continental success.

However, this season, Vicario’s performances have been overshadowed by a series of costly, high-profile mistakes.

Sevilla attacker Ruben Vargas has been linked with a move away from the club, and multiple Premier League clubs are keen on him.

Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Leeds United are all monitoring his progress, and they could look to make a move for him. According to Fichajes, Leeds are already preparing a €20 million offer to sign the 27-year-old attacker.

It will be interesting to see if Sevilla are prepared to sanction his departure.

Leeds eyeing Ruben Vargas

Leeds could use more quality on the flanks, and signing the La Liga attacker could prove to be a wise decision. Signing a quality player in January could improve their chances of surviving in the Premier League as well. They are currently fighting for survival.

Spurs are looking to add more depth on the flanks as well. It will be interesting to see if they are prepared to follow up on their interest with an official proposal. The 27-year-old could be attracted to the idea of joining a big club like Tottenham. They will be able to provide him with Champions League football and the platform to showcase his qualities at the highest level.

Villa and Newcastle also keen on Vargas

Villa and Newcastle are also looking to add more players to their sides. They will be hoping to compete in European football regularly, and they need to improve their team. The 27-year-old is expected to be a very useful acquisition for them. He will add pace, player and unpredictability. It remains to be seen where he ends up.

If Leeds can convince Sevilla to accept the €20 million offer, it could prove to be a reasonable investment. The player is at the peak of his career, and he could justify the outlay in future.

It remains to be seen how the situation develops.

Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing the RC Lens midfielder Mamadou Sangare, as per TEAMtalk.

The 23-year-old has done quite well since joining the French outfit, and he is certainly one of the best midfielders in the league this season. He is a talented young player with a bright future, and he could develop into a key player for all three clubs.

Manchester United need someone who can break up the opposition attack and protect the back line. The 23-year-old could be ideal for them. He has been outstanding defensively. The player is averaging 3.66 tackles, 7.98 duels won, and 7.76 recoveries per 90 minutes in the league this season.

He is a young player, and he will only improve with coaching and experience. He could develop into a key player for the club.

Jean-Louis Leca, Racing’s Sporting Director, said: “His well-rounded profile and personality, perfectly aligned with our project, convinced us. Thanks to his work rate and ability to get forward, Mamadou is an influential midfielder both defensively and offensively. He also possesses very interesting athletic and technical qualities.”

Similarly, Tottenham need a reliable partner for Joao Palhinha. The African could add defensive steel and physicality in the middle of the park. Tottenham have looked vulnerable defensively this season, and they need to tighten up. Signing the 23-year-old could be ideal for them.

Chelsea already have two quality midfielders like Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez. Sangare could be the ideal cover for Caicedo.

It will be interesting to see if the French outfit is willing to sanction his departure. He is an important player for them, and losing him would be a blow. However, the Premier League clubs certainly have the financial muscle to submit a lucrative proposal.

Furthermore, convincing the player to join the club might not be too difficult either. He will look to compete at the highest level, and the move to England could be exciting for him. He would get to play for some of the biggest clubs in the world, and it remains to be seen how the situation unfolds.

Sangare has the physicality and technical attributes for English football, and he could develop into a future star in the right team.

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly considering a bold managerial change that could see former Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández take over from Thomas Frank, according to Fichajes.

The North London club’s hierarchy is said to be increasingly concerned about the team’s form and lack of tactical identity under Frank, who only took charge last summer.

Tottenham’s start to life under the Danish manager has been far from convincing. The team has managed just 10 wins in 25 matches across all competitions, and Sunday’s 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest is being described by many as the lowest point of the season.

The loss, coupled with several flat performances in recent weeks, has intensified speculation about Frank’s future at the club.

Tottenham have been inconsistent this season

While Frank was initially seen as a progressive appointment, a manager capable of implementing a balanced, possession-based style, Spurs’ recent displays have been inconsistent and uninspired.

Senior club figures have grown frustrated with the lack of progress and are questioning whether Frank can deliver long-term success.

Xavi Hernández has emerged as a serious candidate to replace Frank should Tottenham decide to make a change mid-season.

The former Barcelona manager is currently available and is believed to be open to a Premier League challenge.

Tottenham’s board reportedly view Xavi as a strategic, long-term investment, rather than a short-term fix.

His track record of promoting youth, emphasising technical football, and maintaining a clear tactical identity is seen by them as principles that can help the club move forward and progress.

Could Xavi move to the Premier League?

Despite his pedigree as a Barcelona legend, Xavi’s managerial tenure in Spain drew mixed reviews.

While he won La Liga in 2023 and helped stabilize the team after years of turmoil, critics argued that his methods lacked consistency against elite European opposition.

However, his commitment to tactical discipline and player development has caught the attention of several top clubs across Europe, including Tottenham.

For now, Tottenham’s hierarchy is said to be adopting a wait-and-see approach but more results like the defeat against Forest will raise questions over the future of Frank.

AS Roma are exploring the possibility of signing Tottenham Hotspur forward Mathys Tel as part of their January plans to reinforce their attacking options, according to a report from Calciomercato.

The Italian club, under the guidance of Gian Piero Gasperini, are keen to bolster their frontline amid growing uncertainty surrounding their current striking depth and long-term planning.

The 20-year-old French forward, who joined Spurs from Bayern Munich last summer, has impressed in flashes under Thomas Frank but has struggled to cement a consistent starting role in North London.

Roma view Tel as a dynamic and versatile attacker capable of playing across the front line, a player who could inject pace, creativity, and youthful energy into their squad as they look to push for a Champions League qualification spot.

Roma are looking at Tottenham star to add depth

The Giallorossi have been searching for reinforcements in attack, with Joshua Zirkzee of Manchester United previously identified as a priority target.

However, reports in both Italy and England suggest that the Red Devils have no intention of letting Zirkzee leave in January, preferring to reassess his situation in the summer.

This has forced Roma to pivot toward alternative options, with Tel emerging as a serious name under consideration.

While no formal contact has yet been made between Roma and Tottenham, the Italian club’s recruitment team is closely monitoring Tel’s situation.

Mathys Tel is looking for more playing time

Tel remains highly rated but has faced stiff competition for minutes, with the likes of Richarlison and other Spurs attackers.

Frank has used him mainly as an impact substitute, a role that could prompt the young Frenchman to consider opportunities elsewhere in search of regular football.

Spurs are not actively looking to sell Tel but could consider a loan deal if it helps accelerate his development, particularly if the club manages to secure an additional attacking reinforcement in January.

Tottenham could soon welcome Manor Solomon back to the club, as he prepares to leave La Liga side Villarreal. The winger left the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium during the summer, but his loan deal could now be cut short.

Solomon has struggled for prominence at Villarreal, where he has made only 10 appearances across all competitions. He has one goal and four assists, but he does not appear to be counted on by Marcelino Garcia Toral, which would suggest that an exit could be impending.

Manor Solomon able to break Villarreal loan agreement

According to El Periódico Mediterráneo (via Sport Witness), Solomon is frustrated with his lack of game time at Villarreal, and he could seek to return to Tottenham when the transfer window opens in January. There is a clause in the loan deal between the two clubs that allows him to unilaterally terminate the agreement, which would allow him to end his time at the La Liga club.

It would not be ideal for Tottenham were Solomon to return in January, although they would not be short of suitors to take him if he does become available. West Ham have shown interest in his services, and more recently, Leeds have been linked with re-signing him, following his successful loan at Elland Road last season.

How should Tottenham approach the situation with Manor Solomon?

Solomon is contracted to Tottenham until the end of the 2027-28 season, so there are chances for him to be sold for a good price. That would be the ideal solution in the event of him returning early from Villarreal, although there is little chance of anything other than another loan when the transfer window re-opens in January.

It remains to be seen how Solomon’s situation plays out, but it would be no surprise to see him end his Villarreal loan early.

The future of Thomas Frank as Tottenham Hotspur manager is becoming uncertain, with mounting pressure on the Danish coach following a string of poor performances and growing discontent among supporters.

Frank, who only took charge of Spurs in the summer of 2025, is facing increasing scrutiny after a series of inconsistent results that have left the club drifting away from their top-four ambitions.

Internal discussions have already begun at Tottenham regarding his long-term position, with Mauricio Pochettino identified as the strongest potential replacement, sources close to agents industry have informed CaughtOffside.

Spurs’ owners, ENIC, are not currently planning an immediate dismissal. The board continues to show patience, believing that Frank deserves more time to implement his tactical ideas and stabilise the team.

Tottenham are not fully convinced with Thomas Frank

However, behind the scenes, frustration is building among certain senior figures who fear the season could spiral out of control if results do not improve soon.

Tottenham’s recent performances, including the 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest and disappointing draws against lower-ranked sides, have only intensified the pressure.

The team’s lack of attacking rhythm, defensive vulnerability, and unclear identity have left both fans and analysts questioning Frank’s methods.

Should Tottenham decide to make a managerial change, Pochettino remains the top candidate to return to North London.

Pochettino is currently the head coach of the United States men’s national team.

The Argentine, who famously guided Spurs to the Champions League final in 2019, still holds enormous affection among supporters and is seen as someone who understands the club’s culture and playing philosophy.

His familiarity with the club’s infrastructure and his history of developing young players make him an ideal fit for Spurs’ long-term vision.

Two Premier League managers are on Spurs’ radar

While Pochettino is viewed as the front-runner, Tottenham have also shortlisted Oliver Glasner and Marco Silva as alternative options should the managerial situation escalate.

Glasner, currently at Crystal Palace, has impressed with his rapid impact since arriving in the Premier League, guiding the Eagles to an FA Cup triumph and implementing an intense, structured style of football.

His tactical acumen and ability to quickly adapt to English football make him a serious contender.

Silva, meanwhile, has earned plaudits for his work at Fulham, where he has built a disciplined and competitive side on a limited budget.

Manchester City are closely monitoring Pedro Porro’s contract situation at Tottenham Hotspur, as reported by TEAMtalk.

The Premier League giants are in the market for a new right-back, and Porro’s name has re-emerged as a serious option, though Tottenham are determined to keep him and are already working on a new long-term deal to extend his stay beyond 2028.

Porro’s link to Manchester City dates back to 2019, when the club signed him from Girona for a reported £11 million.

Despite his potential, the Spanish full-back never made a senior appearance for City, spending loan spells at Real Valladolid and Sporting CP before making a permanent move to Lisbon.

Man City are interested in signing Pedro Porro

It was there that Porro truly developed into one of Europe’s most dynamic attacking right-backs, eventually earning a £39 million transfer to Tottenham in 2023.

Now, just three years later, City’s recruitment team are said to be keeping tabs on his progress, admiring how his game has evolved since leaving the Etihad.

Pep Guardiola reportedly views Porro as a technically gifted, attack-minded full-back capable of thriving in City’s inverted system, much like João Cancelo at his peak.

Tottenham, meanwhile, are in no mood to lose Porro. The club is currently negotiating a new improved contract that would make the 26-year-old one of their top earners.

Porro has been an integral figure under manager Thomas Frank, combining defensive reliability with creative flair.

The Spanish defender is known for not only his ability to defend but also to help the team in the attacking positions, something that has impressed Man City.

Spurs have no desire to let the defender leave

Spurs suggest the club’s hierarchy view Porro as “untouchable” and see him as central to their long-term project.

While Porro remains high on City’s list, the Premier League giants are also tracking Tino Livramento of Newcastle United, another young, versatile right-back.

Guardiola is said to be weighing both profiles carefully as part of a wider defensive rebuild, with City looking to refresh key areas next year.

Igor Thiago has become one of the standout names of the winter transfer window. His strong performances for Brentford have put him firmly on the radar of Premier League giants.

Sources close to the player’s situation have informed CaughtOffside that Tottenham, Newcastle and Aston Villa are all showing “serious interest”, while clubs from Serie A and La Liga are also keeping an eye on the Brazilian striker.

Thiago has 12 goals in 16 matches this season.

Brentford set Igor Thiago asking price

Brentford’s stance is clear, and the club has set a price as high as €70 million, with some reports even mentioning £70 million. That figure makes a January move difficult, especially given Thiago’s contract until 2029. Brentford are reluctant to lose such a key player midway through the season.

Aston Villa boss Unai Emery sees Thiago as a long-term alternative to Ollie Watkins and could push for a bid in the €50–57 million range. Tottenham have explored a loan deal, but Brentford are not open to it. Newcastle, who signed Yoane Wissa from Brentford in the summer but have yet to see him play due to injury, view Thiago as the ideal signing to strengthen their attack.

Given Brentford’s position, a big move in January looks unlikely. However, strong offers are expected to arrive in the summer. For Thiago, the priority remains playing regularly and performing well to secure his place in Brazil’s squad for the upcoming World Cup.

Tottenham move could tempt Thiago

He will look to compete at a high-level and join a big club. The move to Tottenham would probably be more attractive for him compared to the other two clubs. Tottenham have an exciting project, and they recently won the UEFA Europa League. A quality striker could make a huge difference for them in the final third, and the move would be ideal for all parties.

It will be interesting to see if they are willing to pay the asking price in the summer.