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Tottenham insider Paul O Keefe believes that Jack Grealish is unlikely to become a Spurs player in January, explaining why the Englishman might be out of reach for the North London side.

Tottenham making ambitious Jack Grealish move

The rumours of Tottenham potentially making a move for Grealish have got some Spurs fans excited.

While the attacking midfielder has had a poor 2024, his quality is not in doubt, and some might believe that he can produce his best again in the right environment.

According to various outlets, Man City would be willing to sanction the 29-year-old’s departure if they manage to sign a replacement in January, with Tottenham circling over the player.

However, it has been reported by a number of sources that Spurs would only want to sign the former Aston Villa man on loan and City would have to cover a portion of his £300,000-per-week wages for that to happen.

Paul O Keefe explains why Grealish deal is unlikely

Paul O Keefe, who often breaks news on the developments inside Hotspur Way, has now taken to social media to suggest that Tottenham fans should not get their hopes up about a deal for Jack Grealish.

He too referred to the midfielder’s salary as the main stumbling block, pointing out that City have no reason to subsidise his wages.

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O Keefe added that as things stand, the England international is ‘extremely unlikely’ to end up at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in January.

He tweeted: “I don’t think they would pay the wages and no particular reason why Man City should/would help them. I don’t know for certain but I’d be labelling that one very unlikely.”

Tottenham have one advantage in Grealish pursuit

While the odds are stacked against Spurs, the club do have one advantage, which is that Johan Lange is thought to have an excellent relationship with Grealish from their time together at Villa.

In fact, it was widely reported that the Dane was the one who spearheaded Tottenham’s approach for the City man back in the summer.

Tottenham Hotspur reportedly want to add cover in one area of the pitch, but they are not willing to spend a large portion of their January transfer budget on that position.

Will Spurs sign a new goalkeeper in January?

Guglielmo Vicario is currently out with a fractured ankle and is not expected to be back in action for the foreseeable future.

It was reported by Football.London’s Alasdair Gold a couple of days ago that Ange Postecoglou and his staff view the Fraser Forster‘s inability to sweep up behind a high defensive line as a major weakness and are thus considering adding a goalkeeper to their squad in January.

Gold explained in that report that Spurs are contemplating whether to sign a temporary backup goalkeeper or to sign a long-term option who can take over as Vicario’s understudy when Forster departs in the summer.

Tottenham goalkeeping dilemma for January

The Daily Mail have now confirmed that the Lilywhites are exploring the market for potential goalkeepers as they want to add cover in that position.

However, the report asserts that strengthening between the sticks is not considered a priority by the club in January.

Instead, the North London club are expected to use the bulk of the transfer funds to strengthen their attack and defence, with reinforcements in those areas seen as a more pressing need.

Tottenham’s decision may depend on Guglielmo Vicario’s recovery

Should Spurs be confident that Vicario would return to action at the start of February, they might decide to postpone their pursuit of a goalkeeper until the summer and trust Forster to hold the fort until then.

However, if the Italian’s rehabilitation does not go as planned over the coming weeks, they might be forced to bring another backup shot-stopper through the door.

Alasdair Gold has provided a bunch of interesting reasons why loan signings might be preferable for Tottenham over permanent ones during the January transfer window.

Tottenham expected to have a busy January

With the January window now officially open, Tottenham’s plans will hopefully already be in place regarding their top targets.

While Spurs have historically not been big spenders in January, they are expected to have a busy winter market this time out, with the squad in desperate need of reinforcements to push up the table.

Interestingly, it has now emerged that the Lilywhites might be leaning towards temporary deals as such transfers would have a bunch of benefits to the club.

Alasdair Gold explains why Tottenham might prefer loan deals

Football.London’s Alasdair Gold has now claimed that Spurs want to do some quick deals in January and pointed out that a loan deal would be easier to get over the line and much cheaper.

He suggests that while fans might not see such deals as ambitions, loan signings could offer Tottenham a number of benefits, including the fact that they would not block the development of young talents such as Archie Gray, Lucas Bergvall, Mikey Moore, Yang Min-hyeok and Luka Vuskovic.

The journalist explains that there is also the cynical view that loans would represent a lower risk as Ange Postecoglou‘s loan signings would not have to be kept beyond the end of the season if the Australian fails to last long in the job.

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Tottenham face a big dilemma in backing Postecoglou

There is no doubt that Postecoglou needs to be backed with the players he wants in order for him to have a fighting chance of turning things around this season.

However, at the same time, Johan Lange and the decision makers at Spurs will also be wary of allowing the Australian to spend big on some players as there is a risk that those players would be deemed surplus to requirements by whichever manager replaces the Australian.

One would thus think that the club’s recruitment department will have a big say in which new faces come through the door.

Alasdair Gold has claimed that Tottenham’s former managing director, Fabio Paratici, could have an important role to play in the club’s January transfer pursuits.

Fabio Paratici continues to be involved at Tottenham

It has been 20 months since Paratici resigned from his position as Tottenham’s managing director of football due to his alleged involvement in Juventus’ capital gains scandal.

However, it has been well documented that the Italian has continued assisting the Lilywhites as a consultant, with Daniel Levy often turning to him for his input before making decisions.

Paratici continues to attend Tottenham’s home games, and he was spotted once again in Spurs’ 2-2 draw against Wolves on Sunday.

Alasdair Gold on Fabio Paratici’s role in January

Football.London’s Alasdair Gold also backs up that Paratici was indeed a guest in one of the boxes in the west stand’s middle tier. The journalist suggests that it might not be a coincidence that the 52-year-old was spotted so close to the opening of the January window.

Gold points out that even after leaving his managing director role, the former Juventus director has continued to assist Spurs in the transfer market. Paratici played a crucial role in the acquisition of James Maddison and Guglielmo Vicario, while also recommending both Brennan Johnson and Radu Dragusin to the club.

The Football.London reporter suggests that with Tottenham attempting to make some quick signings in January, Paratici’s contacts within the game and his relationships with various clubs could come in handy for Spurs over the coming weeks.

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Tottenham would have already identified their top targets

One would assume that Johan Lange and Ange Postecoglou would have already settled on their top transfer targets for January, no doubt with some inputs from Paratici as well.

Unlike the Italian, Lange tends to operate in secrecy, which is why the media might not have caught onto the identity of Tottenham’s top targets in the window.

Will Lankshear’s future at Tottenham could hinge on one pivotal decision this January, with a crossroads looming for the promising young forward as the transfer window progresses.

Ange Postecoglou’s juggling act with Tottenham’s squad

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou finds himself in a delicate balancing act this January transfer window, as he looks to address mounting injury concerns while simultaneously managing potential player exits.

Among the players attracting attention this winter is 19-year-old forward Will Lankshear, whose meteoric rise has been one of the bright sparks of the season for Tottenham.

Lankshear, who penned a new five-year deal with the club earlier this season, has enjoyed a whirlwind few months—scoring his first goal for the club, making his Premier League debut, and even enduring the highs and lows of football with a red card in the same Galatasaray match where he opened his goalscoring account.

While Lankshear’s potential is undeniable, Tottenham’s current situation complicates matters. With injuries plaguing several key players, Postecoglou is facing tough decisions regarding squad depth and the future of emerging talents like Lankshear.

Clubs circle as Tottenham weigh Will Lankshear’s future

Football.London reports that Will Lankshear has caught the eye of multiple clubs this transfer window, with some eager to secure the teenager on a permanent basis and others seeking a loan move to develop his talents further.

However, Tottenham’s ongoing injury issues may ultimately dictate whether the forward stays or departs this January.

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The outlet revealed: ‘Football.London understands there has been a lot of interest in Lankshear, with some clubs looking to sign him permanently and many on loan, but Tottenham’s injury problems make it difficult right now to let him go.’

They further report that: ‘Richarlison is on the way back now from his hamstring problem, but the Brazilian’s injury record makes it difficult for Tottenham to allow Lankshear to go out on loan right now even if he really could do with the minutes for his development.’

Why a loan move might be best for Lankshear

While Will Lankshear is undoubtedly a player with immense promise, there are legitimate questions about whether he is ready to shoulder the responsibility of being Tottenham’s second-choice forward at this stage of his career.

His talent is clear, but he remains a raw prospect, and consistent playing time is vital for his development.

A loan move to a competitive club could provide the young striker with invaluable experience, enabling him to refine his skills and gain confidence in a less pressured environment.

Tottenham’s interest in Lyon’s Maxence Caqueret could trigger a January transfer window bidding war, with the midfielder set to be available at a bargain price.

Tottenham’s hunt for reinforcements within their squad

Tottenham Hotspur have endured a challenging season defensively, with key injuries exposing frailties in their backline and forcing Ange Postecoglou to rely on a stretched squad.

While the defensive gaps remain a glaring issue, recent reports suggest that Tottenham may be broadening their focus to include opportunities that could arise in the midfield.

One such opportunity might be Maxence Caqueret, the Lyon midfielder who has emerged as a possible target for Spurs.

With Lyon facing significant financial difficulties, there is speculation that they may be forced to part ways with key players in January, making Caqueret a realistic option for Tottenham’s recruitment team.

Tottenham monitoring Maxence Caqueret transfer as Lyon struggle

The Lilywhites boss Ange Postecoglou is reportedly keeping close tabs on Maxence Caqueret and exploring the possibility of luring the Lyon midfielder to Hotspur Way during the January transfer window.

According to GIVEMESPORT sources, the north London club are prepared to move swiftly if Lyon make the 24-year-old available at a bargain price.

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Scouts from Spurs have already been deployed to monitor several Ligue 1 talents, and Caqueret’s performances have evidently caught their attention.

Sources further indicate that Tottenham’s willingness to act hinges on Lyon’s financial desperation. While Postecoglou has also shown interest in other Ligue 1 stars, including Lens’ Andy Diouf and Abdukodir Khusanov, Caqueret has emerged as a prime target due to his potential affordability and tactical suitability.

GIVEMESPORT has learned that Tottenham are assessing whether they could negotiate a cut-price deal or secure the player on loan, which would align with their strategy of economical yet impactful recruitment.

Ange Postecoglou faces stiff transfer competition for Caqueret

While Tottenham have taken a keen interest in Maxence Caqueret, they face mounting transfer competition from both domestic and international suitors.

West Ham United, Crystal Palace, and Everton are closely monitoring the midfielder’s situation, and GMS sources suggest that these clubs are growing in confidence that Lyon will lower their financial demands as they scramble to raise funds before the February transfer deadline.

Beyond England, Bayer Leverkusen, the reigning Bundesliga champions, have also expressed interest in the Lyon academy graduate.

Although a move to Germany did not materialise in the summer, the Frenchman remains a sought-after prospect.

For Tottenham, securing Caqueret would represent a calculated gamble that aligns with Postecoglou’s philosophy.

However, the Lilywhites must contend with the challenge of competition and the urgency of Lyon’s situation, but if they can strike a deal below market value, the addition of Caqueret could provide the midfield reinforcements Tottenham have long sought.

Tottenham kick off the new year with a crucial home clash against an in-form Newcastle United.

Spurs’ first game of the 2025 calendar year is here, and we’re all looking forward to it—or maybe, just maybe, not so much. Half the Premier League season is done, and honestly, it’s been quite a while since I last checked the league table. Don’t plan on checking it anytime soon, either.

It’s that time of the year when Spurs face one of those annoying sides—Newcastle United. The stats suggest hope, though. These two have a habit of tormenting each other at home. We’ve seen nightmarish losses on both ends, but Saturday’s fixture favours Tottenham, at least in theory. These games are always entertaining—33 goals in their last seven meetings prove that, even if some of those moments were unforgettable for all the wrong reasons.

Let’s not forget the reverse fixture this season: Spurs’ first loss, and how Nick Pope decided to play the game of his life. That match set a theme for Tottenham’s season—dominating play but failing to convert chances. (Still blaming Ange? Really?) With the home advantage on Saturday, maybe Spurs can reconcile that bitter memory and make a statement.

What time does Tottenham vs Newcastle kick-off?

Location: London, England

Stadium: Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

Date: Saturday 4th January 2025

Kick-off time: 12:30 pm BST

Referee: Andy Madley

VAR: Chris Kavanagh

How both teams go into Tottenham v Newcastle

Spurs are fresh from a 2-2 draw with Wolves—a match that should have been a comfortable win. Yet again, wasted chances told the story, though there were positives tactically. Postecoglou opted for two defensive midfielders rather than the usual pair of attacking midfielders, bringing something Spurs have lacked this season: ‘unpredictability’. Still, five home league games without a win (worst run since 2008) is a haunting stat. It’s about time that changed.

As for Newcastle, they’re in red-hot form—five straight wins, 16 goals scored, and none conceded in their last three. Their 2-0 win over Manchester United was a walk in the park. United didn’t register a single shot on target, and Newcastle’s discipline and organisation were impeccable. You will hardly find them conceding due to players out of position—a concept Spurs seem to struggle with lately.

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When Newcastle do concede, though, it’s often when their defenders try to execute an offside trap and fail. Spotting these moments will be key for Spurs‘ attackers. On the flip side, their attack heavily relies on Anthony Gordon and Alexander Isak. Gordon thrives on the left flank, beating full-backs or whipping crosses in for Isak to convert. Both goals against United came from this very pattern. Porro will need to tighten up, as Wolves’ Rayan Aït-Nouri showed just how easily Spurs’ right side can be exploited.

Tottenham team news

Well, I’ll start off with the positives. I know you must be tired of reading too much about Spurs’ injuries lately. The January transfer window opens up tomorrow (1st January), and we’re already hearing a lot of rumours about being linked to a few players. But on a realistic note, it’s unlikely Spurs will do any business so soon and get a player on board within four days—but you never know what to expect.

Now, onto the unavoidable topic—the injury list.

Just when Ange Postecoglou thinks he’s getting a couple of Tottenham players back from the treatment room or the suspension list, he loses another one or two. Though Djed Spence returns after serving his ban, Bentancur is out after picking up his 5th yellow card of the season.

Destiny Udogie’s hamstring injury is a huge blow. Reguilón, who I thought looked decent against Wolves, could well be making his final Spurs appearance if Ange decides to give him a few minutes towards the end.

James Maddison should return to the starting XI after being benched for the previous 2 games. With his yellow cards tally reset, he’ll be itching to add to his tally as Spurs’ top scorer this season.

For those keeping track, Richarlison, Romero, Van de Ven, and Vicario remain sidelined alongside Udogie. Any updates on Moore’s status will follow in the coming days.

Although Ange informed that Dragusin wasn’t a hundred per cent fit going into the Wolves game, he’s likely to start. (Who else do Spurs even have?)

Newcastle team news

Newcastle have their own absentees, including Sven Botman, Nick Pope, and Callum Wilson. Fabian Schär is suspended, forcing Lloyd Kelly, into the lineup. Kelly, who was linked to Spurs in the past, hasn’t played since November, and his rustiness could be an opportunity for Spurs to exploit.

Predicted Tottenham line-up

Forster; Porro, Dragusin, Gray, Spence; Kulusevski, Bentancur, Maddison, Johnson; Solanke, Son.

Our prediction

Alexander Isak is Newcastle’s biggest threat—17 goal involvements in 20 games and a six-match scoring streak in the league. He’s not just a finisher but also a playmaker, dropping deep to link up with Gordon and Newcastle’s dynamic midfield trio. Spurs need to cut off Gordon’s supply line to Isak; stop one, and you might just stop the other.

Eddie Howe deserves credit for Newcastle’s versatility. One match they’ll dominate possession, the next they’ll hit teams on the counter. It makes predicting their tactics and drawing out their playstyle a headache.

While there’s a slightly noticeable pattern in how Newcastle score and concede lately—(favouring the left and occasionally being caught out by a failed offside trap as I’ve mentioned above)—there’s no guarantee we’ll see a repeat of this. However, Newcastle are definitely stronger on the left in attacking terms and Spurs are defensively weaker on the right so that just makes it likelier that Newcastle are going to target Porro’s side. Spurs must find a way to counter that, or this could get ugly.

Predicted score: Tottenham Hotspur 4-1 Newcastle.

Starting the year with a win? Here’s hoping Spurs finally give fans something to cheer about.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Tottenham Hotspur continue to back Ange Postecoglou despite recent struggles, with the January transfer window seen as pivotal to turning their season around.

Tottenham’s challenging season under Ange Postecoglou

Tottenham Hotspur’s 2-2 draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday extended a dismal run that has seen them win just once in their last seven Premier League outings, leaving the North London side languishing in 11th place in the table.

With 19 games played, they sit a significant 11 points off fourth place, a position many fans had hoped to challenge for this season.

Injuries have been a major contributing factor to Spurs’ struggles, with several key players sidelined for extended periods.

These absences have hampered Spurs’ ability to execute Postecoglou’s attacking philosophy and have placed additional pressure on the squad as they look to arrest their slide in form.

Tottenham maintain faith in Ange Postecoglou – Fabrizio Romano

Despite the disappointing results and a series of challenging fixtures, Tottenham Hotspur have shown no intention of parting ways with Ange Postecoglou.

According to Fabrizio Romano, speaking exclusively to GIVEMESPORT, the club’s hierarchy remains fully supportive of their manager and are instead looking to the January transfer window as an opportunity to strengthen the squad.

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Fabrizio Romano said: “It’s obviously a difficult situation, but what I’m hearing is that Tottenham keep supporting and trusting Ange Postecoglou the January window is going to be important. Obviously, they need to do something.”

Opportunities and challenges ahead as Tottenham look to secure defensive reinforcements

Looking ahead to the January transfer window, Tottenham Hotspur are expected to prioritise the addition of defensive reinforcements.

One name that has emerged as a potential target is Borussia Monchengladbach’s Ko Itakura, a versatile Japanese international who will enter the final 18 months of his contract in January.

While not yet identified as the club’s primary target, sources indicate that Spurs have not ruled out a move for the defender, who could provide much-needed stability at the back.

The challenge for Tottenham lies not only in securing the right players but also in integrating them into a system that demands high levels of tactical awareness and technical proficiency.

Postecoglou’s track record suggests he is capable of moulding a cohesive unit, but the margin for error is increasingly slim as the season progresses.

Tottenham Hotspur have entered the race for Randal Kolo Muani, with the French forward’s future at Paris Saint-Germain hanging in the balance.

Kolo Muani’s struggles at Paris Saint-Germain

Randal Kolo Muani arrived at Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2023 with high expectations, following a £64.2 million transfer from Eintracht Frankfurt. However, the French forward’s time in the capital has been far from smooth sailing.

Despite his reputation as a World Cup finalist and a promising attacking talent, Kolo Muani has struggled to secure regular playing time under PSG head coach Luis Enrique.

The 26-year-old has started just three matches across all competitions this season—a stark contrast to his prolific form in Germany.

His two league starts came in August and September, and his sole Champions League start saw him substituted before the hour mark.

Goals have been hard to come by as well; his last strike came on September 1, leaving him with just two goals this season. Frustration has been mounting, and it is clear that his future at PSG looks uncertain.

Tottenham join the race for Kolo Muani

As January approaches, interest in Kolo Muani has intensified, with Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur all engaging in discussions with his representatives.

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Sources have told TBR Football’s chief correspondent, Graeme Bailey, that while the 26-year-old has attracted attention from Italy and Turkey, his preference is a move to England.

Paris Saint-Germain are reportedly open to a loan deal in January but are keen to include an option to make the move permanent.

Discussions are expected to cover the financial terms of such a deal, with PSG keen to recoup a significant portion of the £64.2 million they invested in the player.

The stakes for Kolo Muani’s next move

Finding the right club is critical for Kolo Muani, particularly with just 18 months remaining before the next World Cup.

While his performances for PSG have been underwhelming, he remains a key figure in Didier Deschamps’ French squad. However, his national team status could be at risk if he does not secure regular playing time soon.

TBR Football understands that Kolo Muani has been advised to prioritise a move that guarantees minutes on the pitch and a system that suits his playing style.

Despite his struggles in Paris, his talent and potential are evident, and a change of environment could reignite his career.

Chelsea have reportedly moved to the front of the queue to sign a Serie A defender, who is also in the sights of Tottenham Hotspur.

Tottenham could have a transfer battle with Chelsea

Patrick Dorgu has been creating waves in Serie A for the last 18 months and the 20-year-old’s stock is growing with each game as he continues to impress further forward for Lecce this season.

Spurs are said to be big fans of the 20-year-old, with some outlets over recent months even installing the Lilywhites as favourites to land the player.

Fabrizio Romano revealed just a few days ago that both Spurs and Chelsea explored a deal for the player last summer and are continuing to keep tabs on him ahead of January.

Chelsea could step up Patrick Dorgu pursuit

The Daily Express have now claimed that Enzo Maresca admires Dorgu’s qualities and sees the youngster as the right option to bolster the Chelsea defence.

The same outlet claims that the Blues have scouted the Denmark international extensively, and have now overtaken both Spurs and Manchester United in the race, thus moving to the front of the queue to sign the youngster.

However, it is pointed out that Dorgu has a contract with Lecce until 2029, with his deal containing no release clause. As a result, Lecce are expected to hold out for a sizable fee.

Would Dorgu still be a priority for Tottenham?

The improved performances of Djed Spence of late have arguably made a new left-back less of a priority for Ange Postecoglou. However, if Destiny Udogie’s injury turns out to be bad then things could change.

Perhaps the club might look to sign a versatile left-sided defender who can cover at left centre-back as well as a left-back. That is a very different profile to Dorgu, who is more of an attack-minded wing-back.