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Tottenham and Arsenal could go head-to-head for an attacking midfielder who is considered to be among the best young talents in Europe.

Spurs want to sign up-and-coming midfielder

We are referring to Georgiy Sudakov, who has won many admirers with his performances for Shakhtar Donetsk over the last year and a half.

He is now garnering even more attention in light of his impressive start to the season, and in particular, his exciting displays in the Champions League.

It was reported a few days ago by Football Insider that Tottenham are doing their ‘due diligence’ on the 22-year-old ahead of the January window.

Spurs set for a transfer battle?

The same report also claimed that Manchester City are also fans of Sudakov and are eying the youngster as a potential long-term replacement for Kevin de Bruyne.

Now, TuttoJuve have also backed up Tottenham’s interest in the Shakhtar star but they suggest that the Lilywhites’ biggest competitors for the youngster’s signature might be Arsenal.

The outlet claims that the two North London clubs are the teams showing the most interest in the midfielder ahead of the winter.

Deal not easy to do

However, it is explained that it would not be easy to bring Sudakov to the Premier League, with Shakhtar expected to play hardball.

It is asserted that the Ukrainian side will expect a considerable fee if they are to be convinced to part ways with their talisman mid-season.

Former Tottenham scout Mick Brown is sceptical about the reports backing the Lilywhites to make a move for one England midfielder.

Tottenham to be involved in transfer battle for 24-year-old?

The player in question is Angel Gomes, who has turned quite a lot of heads with his performances for Lille over the last few years.

The midfielder’s stock has grown even further in light of his impressive displays for England under Lee Carsley, and it has been suggested that Tottenham are now ready to offer the player a route back to the Premier League.

However, according to GiveMeSport, Spurs could face major competition from the likes of Manchester United, Aston Villa and Newcastle United for the player’s signature.

Former Spurs scout not convinced about transfer

Mick Brown, who has worked as a scout for the likes of Tottenham, Manchester United and Aston Villa, and remains well-connected in the game, has now cast doubt on these rumours.

He suggested that signing another attacking midfielder is unlikely to be a priority for Ange Postecoglou in January.

When asked about Spurs’ rumoured interest in Gomes, Brown told Football Insider: “I don’t think Tottenham are among those interested. They’ve already got James Maddison who can play a similar role. I would see those two as being not too dissimilar.

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“I know Gomes plays a bit deeper but we’ve seen Maddison drop into that space in recent games. They’re both players who want to see a lot of the ball and look to make things happen, they’re clever passers and good in possession. I’d be surprised if Tottenham made a move for Gomes because of that.”

Tottenham do need a number eight

Postecoglou has tweaked his formation a little this season as he no longer uses a number ten. Instead, he uses two number eights, with both James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski given the freedom to drop deep to pick up the ball.

However, Tottenham are lacking cover for those two players, with none of Pape Sarr, Rodrigo Bentancur or Yves Bissouma being natural fits for that role, while Lucas Bergvall is not yet the finished product.

It would thus make sense for the North London club to add another energetic attacking midfielder to their squad of Gomes’ mould.

A new report claims there is now a significant likelihood of Tottenham losing one of their most important players over the coming transfer windows.

Comments about future are fuelling transfer speculation

The strongest indicator that a Tottenham player is performing well is when one of the biggest clubs in Europe begins to show interest.

Earlier in the international break an interview with Pedro Porro in Relevo mentioned that Real Madrid hold a growing interest in the Tottenham fullback, with Dani Carvajal set for an extended period out with injury.

Porro said: “Of course, I’m proud with these links, it means I’m doing things well. If that happens one day, it happens. Now I’m fully focused on my club, Tottenham.”

Madrid seem to have their eyes set on the Premier League for a new right-back with reports of them also appreciating Trent Alexander-Arnold (Athletic) and Reece James (SPORT).

While Porro did state he was ‘focused and comfortable’ at Tottenham, his pleasure at being appreciated by Madrid has brought scrutiny. Furthermore, reports from other parts of Europe are now adding to speculation over Porro’s future, suggesting it is already a matter of when.

Pedro Porro to be sold within a year

An Inter Live report is now suggesting that it is ‘very likely’ that Tottenham accept a bid from Real Madrid and Pedro Porro will make his exit, either in January or next summer.

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The likelihood of Porro’s departure appears to be a culmination of Real Madrid’s interest and the Spaniard taking their pursuit of him as praise. However, no official bid has been made and there has been no suggestion from Tottenham that they would even entertain an offer for their defender.

Daniel Levy is a fierce negotiator and with three years remaining on Porro’s contract, Tottenham would surely be looking for a sum well above the reported €45m they paid for him when he joined from Sporting Lisbon.

In fact, Graeme Bailey reported today that Tottenham are planning to offer Porro a new long-term deal in 2025, despite him currently being under contract until 2028.

Unlikely to let such an important player go

Transfer speculation occurs with all talented footballers, but the claim that Porro’s exit is ‘very likely’ at this stage, feels little more than an assumption that Tottenham will inherently bend to Real Madrid’s will. If anything, Tottenham have shown a tendency to hold on to players possibly longer than they should and refuse to accommodate for less than their valuation.

Pedro Porro is receiving the praise many will believe he richly deserves after an incredible transformation under Postecoglou. While some use the number of goals Tottenham concede collectively as a means to devalue their individual defender, Porro is instrumental in how they build out their possession game from defence. His bravery in possession is quintessential of Postecoglou’s footballing philosophy and his value to this project at Tottenham could well be higher than what Real Madrid may be willing to offer.

Suggestions that it is ‘very likely’ Tottenham will let another of their star players move to Real Madrid, seem to be distinctly premature.

Tottenham Hotspur have launched a bid to sign 17-year-old St Patrick’s Athletic striker, Mason Melia, whose impressive performances in the League of Ireland have caught the eye of a number of Premier League teams.

Getting to know Mason Melia

Mason Melia is one of the Republic of Ireland’s most promising prospects. He was only 15 when he made his first appearance for St Patrick’s Athletic, coming off the bench to score a screamer, which made him the club’s youngest-ever goalscorer (Irish Independent).

Melia showed his quality in his first season playing senior football, with two goals and one assist in 10 league appearances, and he only started one of those matches.

He has taken advantage of his increased game time this season, scoring six goals in 14 starts, while he made a further 17 appearances off the bench for St Pats, who are four points off league leaders, Shelbourne (Transfer Markt).

It is not just at club level where Melia has learned to thrive. Two years ago, he helped the Republic of Ireland win the under-16 Victory Shield, while last year he pitched in with two goals and two assists as his country reached the quarter-final of the under-17s Euros.

Tottenham make a bid for Mason Melia

Irish journalist, Conor McEvoy, reveals that Spurs have made a bid for Melia, with his asking price sitting at one million euros. The bid has not yet been accepted, despite some reports stating otherwise.

Although Melia cannot leave St Pats until he turns 18 next September, up to six Premier League clubs are reportedly looking to sign him, including North London rivals, Arsenal (Irish Mirror).

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It is no surprise the youngster is in demand, as he has received praise from his supporters and teammates alike. St Pats striker, Aida Keena, heaped praise on Melia last month.

Speaking to the Irish Independent, he said: “When I was 16 I was in the St Pats U-19s, so it’s brilliant to see him [Melia] in the first team at 16. He knows how good he is and how good he can be, he has a good head on his shoulders.

“He’s playing men’s football, and it’s not just his goals, his overall game is getting better and better. I am there to give him any advice he needs but he doesn’t need much, it will be me asking him for advice now.”

Another young signing for Postecoglou

Ange Postecoglou is no stranger to signing young players, with Dominic Solanke being the only player he signed in the summer older than 20 (Transfer Markt).

But in the centre forward position, there is less excitement surrounding the younger players than in other positions. Alejo Veliz has failed to make an impact since joining Spurs, spending most of his time on loan at other clubs. And while Dane Scarlett and Will Lankshear have both shown some promise, there is no harm in signing another young striker.

Many forwards in the past, such as Melia’s fellow countryman, Troy Parrott, have failed to break through at Tottenham, but there is always the chance the club end up developing someone like Harry Kane. And at around a million euros, signing Melia is very low risk and would be an exciting move if Spurs can get the deal done.

Tottenham Hotspur’s George Feeney is emerging as one of the most exciting young prospects in English football, with his natural talent and footballing pedigree marking him as a player to watch in the coming years. Now, he has been selected in The Guardian’s list of next-gen starlets.

A rising star from Northern Ireland

Feeney’s journey to Tottenham began in Belfast, where his performances for Glentoran quickly set him apart as a footballer with immense potential. At just 15, Feeney made headlines by becoming Glentoran’s youngest-ever goalscorer, an achievement that drew attention from Premier League scouts.

Tottenham Hotspur, known for their successful academy, ultimately secured his signature in July 2024, and since his move to North London, Feeney’s development has been eagerly followed.

His early success at Glentoran, where he made 10 senior appearances, underscored his maturity and technical ability, marking him as one of the brightest prospects in Northern Ireland.

Although he represented Northern Ireland at youth level for the U16 and U17 sides, the young striker more recently switched his allegiance to Wales in 2024. When has a player from Wales ever broken through at Tottenham?

George Feeney named in The Guardian’s next-gen list

The Guardian name a Premier League next-gen list every year, picking one teenager from each club in the top division to keep an eye on. This year, Tottenham’s entrant is George Feeney.

The Guardian wrote: “There was a reason why the Belfast Telegraph described Feeney as a ‘teenage sensation’, and Tottenham were delighted when they won the race for his signature towards the end of last season, beating off competition from a host of Premier League rivals.

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“Listed at 5ft 8in, Feeney is known for his technical gifts and assurance on the ball.”

Since arriving at Tottenham in July, Feeney has not only had to adapt to a new level of competition but has also embraced a positional change on the pitch. Previously a centre-forward at Glentoran, Spurs have shifted him into a central attacking midfield role in their under-18s, highlighting his versatility and tactical intelligence.

This new role has allowed Feeney to display a broader range of his talents, showcasing his technical gifts, vision, and decision-making abilities.

At 5ft 8, Feeney may not be the most physically imposing player, but his intelligence and vision on the pitch more than make up for it. As he continues to develop within Tottenham’s youth academy, his adaptability and skill in different attacking roles suggest that he could become a crucial player for the club’s future.

Football heritage: a family of international talent

Adding to his intrigue, George Feeney is not just another promising young player—he is part of a footballing dynasty. The Guardian wrote: “His father, Warren, won 46 caps for Northern Ireland while his grandfather, Warren Sr, also played for the country. Feeney’s great-grandfather, Jimmy, played twice for Ireland.”

This rich lineage has provided Feeney with a unique legacy to build upon, but it also adds a weight of expectation as he seeks to carve out his own identity in football.

Now, as he continues to navigate the early stages of his career, George Feeney is poised to become one of Tottenham’s standout youth prospects. His technical ability, versatility, and footballing pedigree mark him as a player to watch, and fans of both Spurs and Northern Ireland will be keeping a close eye on his development in the years to come.

Tottenham Hotspur are making big plans regarding Pedro Porro after learning about Real Madrid’s interest in the right-back.

Pedro Porro on Real Madrid’s radar

It has emerged over recent weeks that Los Blancos have been impressed by Porro’s performances for Spurs and are considering making him the long-term heir to Dani Carvajal at right-back (CaughtOffside).

The 24-year-old’s impressive showing for Spain in the Nations League on Tuesday is only likely to have strengthened the La Liga giants’ resolve to sign the defender.

However, it has now emerged that Tottenham are making plans to stop the Spanish giants from swooping for their star man.

Spurs set to take steps to keep Porro

TBR Football now report that Ange Postecoglou’s side are ‘aware’ of the ‘growing interest’ in Porro, particularly from Madrid.

The report says that the North London club are ‘very happy’ with the former Sporting Lisbon man’s performances and are not surprised that he is on the radar of Europe’s biggest clubs.

It is revealed that even though Porro’s current deal runs until 2028, Tottenham are already making plans to offer the player a new long-term contract in the new year.

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Madrid also looking at other options

Spurs do not have to panic about Carlo Ancelotti’s men swopping for Porro just yet as TBR Football reveal that the Tottenham man is far from the only right-back on their radar.

The reigning European champions are allegedly also tracking the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Reece James, Jeremie Frimpong and Juanlu ahead of the January window.

It is explained that Madrid are currently ‘doing their homework’ on these options, which suggests that they have not settled on a number one target just yet.

You would not blame Ange Postecoglou for feeling the heat at Spurs right now, but the manager insists this challenge is no more severe than the ones he’s experienced in the past at Celtic.

Pundits are turning on Ange Postecoglou

While pundits and neutrals throughout the game adored Ange Postecoglou in his early days at Spurs and praised his bold tactical approach to football, it seems the tide is turning of late.

Postecoglou has repeatedly been described as naive and impractical for refusing to change his methods and his style of play to a more reserved setup in certain circumstances.

The 3-2 defeat against Brighton before the international break feels like a real turning point for many in the media, who insist Postecoglou is to blame for Tottenham’s downfall.

Celtic job brought massive pressure

Postecoglou is not about to crumble under the pressure, though. In fact, he’s not even sure the Spurs job is the most intense he has taken in his career.

Speaking to Optus Sport, Postecoglou explained how difficult the Celtic job was and how it compares to coaching in the Premier League.

He said: “The challenge is the competition – you’re playing against the best in the world. The demands of that are pretty dramatic in terms of where I’ve come from in terms of starting my journey. This club has its own unique challenges for sure. Are they more difficult than others? I don’t know.

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“When I was at Celtic I was expected to win. If you lose one game it’s a major problem and not many can cope with that.”

Success will come to Spurs

A lot has been made of the fact that Spurs have not won a trophy for 16 years, and Postecoglou has been very vocal about his belief that he can end that drought.

In the interview, he added: “It’s just a different challenge for sure. I get why people would say it’s the level and the scrutiny is the reason why you’re not having success – I don’t believe that. I believe we will have success and there’s nothing here that makes me think that is insurmountable.”

The international break is over, and one Spurs star has come away from the fixtures on a high after putting in a strong performance for his country and making it into the EA FC25 Team of the Week.

Radu Dragusin stars for Romania

He may not get much gametime for Tottenham Hotspur, but Radu Dragusin is a regular fixture in the Romania national team.

It was a highly successful international break for Dragusin and his country this time around, too, with Romania registering two wins from two Nations League games, beating Cyprus 3-0 and Lithuania 2-1.

Dragusin even managed to get himself on the scoresheet this week, his first goal at senior international level, in the win over Cyprus on Saturday.

In an Instagram post after the game, Dragusin celebrated his goal and the win, writing: “Happy for my first goal in the national shirt. Really proud of the way we played and secured the 3 points. The hard work must continue.”

EA recognise Dragusin performance

It’s far more than just a goal for Dragusin, though, who put in solid performances in both the international fixtures.

That was enough to secure him an upgraded card as part of EA FC25’s Team of the Week, with Dragusin being bumped to an 84 rating.

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His score is made up of the following attributes: Pace 83, shooting 46, passing 63, dribbling 75, defending 84, and physicality 85.

Other players included in the Team of the Week include Arsenal’s Leandro Trossard, Borussia Dortmund striker Serhou Guirassy, Liverpool’s Dominic Szoboszlai, and Inter Milan full-back Denzel Dumfries.

Dragusin should get a chance soon

Tottenham return to domestic action at the weekend with a London derby against West Ham, and Ange Postecoglou’s players had better prepare for a ferocious team talk from the manager.

Brighton defeat a low-point for Postecoglou

Before the international break, Spurs left their fans bitterly disappointed when they threw away a two-goal lead against Brighton, coming away from the Amex Stadium on the wrong end of a 3-2 scoreline.

First half dominance made way for complacency and clumsiness, with Brighton completely overwhelming the Tottenham players to take all three points.

At the time, Ange Postecoglou described the defeat as his worst since taking over at Spurs, particularly because of the manner in which his team capitulated (ESPN).

Postecoglou needs catharsis after international break

Since then, most of the squad have been away on international duty, while Postecoglou has remained at Hotspur Way with a small handful of his first-team squad.

Speaking to Optus Sport about that period of time and how he’s feeling about the Brighton game now, Postecoglou revealed he is ready to let the players know how unhappy he is about that defeat.

He said: “You never know if [the international break] is good or bad. Maybe for the players it was good, but I don’t like sitting on a loss. There can be a tendency to over-analyse things. It wasn’t a good one. The first half was unbelievable, but I didn’t like the second half and what we looked like.

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“It wasn’t the loss, it was the manner I wasn’t comfortable with. I’ve been sitting on it for 10 days, I’m ready to explode once they get back in the building and that will be my therapy.”

Players deserve a dressing down

This is exactly the right approach. The players might think they can run away from that defeat and sweep it under the rug, but it absolutely needs to be addressed and those mistakes must become a valuable lesson for the squad.

Progress cannot be made unless you confront the bad and the good in equal measure, and Postecoglou is clearly going to make sure no one can shirk the responsibility of what happened at Brighton.

Tottenham Hotspur’s announcement of Djed Spence’s new contract until 2028 is a decision that reflects a renewed belief in a player once on the fringes of the squad.

After struggling to make an impact in his first two seasons, Spence has now worked his way into Ange Postecoglou’s plans and proven his worth at a pivotal moment in his career.

The 24-year-old right-back arrived from Middlesbrough for a reported £20 million in 2022, but loan spells at Rennes, Leeds United, and Genoa followed as he found playing time hard to come by under previous managers.

Djed Spence’s resurgence: A comeback story

As recently as January, Djed Spence’s Spurs career looked over. Training with the U21s and reportedly on the lookout for a permanent move away, he appeared to be surplus to requirements (Alasdair Gold).

However, an impressive preseason under Ange Postecoglou turned the tide. Spence not only earned his spot back in the first team but began to show his versatility—being deployed in both full-back roles and thriving under Postecoglou’s attacking system.

His performance in Tottenham’s 2-1 win over Coventry City in the Carabao Cup, where he netted his first goal for the club, cemented his comeback. It is performances like these that underline why extending Spence’s contract was a logical decision. The club clearly recognises his potential not only as a squad player but as someone who can grow into a key contributor over the next four years.

A perfect fit for Postecoglou’s system

Ange Postecoglou’s tactical setup demands full-backs who can do more than just defend. They must contribute to attacking phases, cut inside, and exploit spaces, especially against teams that play a low block. This is where Spence shines.

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His electric pace and technical ability make him a threat going forward, while his defensive stats—such as zero miscontrols and dispossessions this season—highlight his reliability at the back (FBREF).

With Pedro Porro and Destiny Udogie being Tottenham’s primary full-back options, Spence’s versatility allows him to challenge for both spots, ensuring healthy competition.

Moreover, his aerial duels and progressive carries per 90 minutes are higher than any other full-back in the squad, meaning he offers something different in attacking transitions. This is crucial for Tottenham, especially in a season where squad depth will be tested due to injuries and fixture congestion.

Takeaway: Why Spence’s new contract is a win-win

Djed Spence’s new contract is not just a reward for his perseverance but also a shrewd move by Tottenham. In a season where depth will be vital, Spence’s ability to slot into various roles across the defence and midfield gives Postecoglou much-needed flexibility.

His pace, dribbling ability, and improved defensive work make him the ideal candidate to thrive in this system. Tottenham are betting on Spence’s potential to further develop and become a key figure over the next few seasons.

With the security of a long-term deal and the faith of the club, Spence now has every opportunity to prove himself. His journey from the fringes to a vital squad member is a reminder of the importance of patience and perseverance, and could this deal ultimately prove to be a masterstroke for Spurs?