Football Insider

Tottenham Hotspur have significantly strengthened their attacking options with the imminent signing of Mohammed Kudus from West Ham United.

The 42-time Ghana international enjoyed a productive spell at the London Stadium, registering 19 goals and 13 assists in 80 appearances across all competitions — despite the Hammers generally underperforming during that time.

Now, Kudus is set to trade East London for North, with The Athletic reporting (9 July) he’ll join Spurs for £55million off the back of the Lilywhites’ triumph in the Europa League final — sealing Champions League football despite finishing 17th in the Premier League.

Kudus — who also garnered interest from Newcastle and Chelsea — is Spurs’ fifth signing of the summer following the conversion of Mathys Tel and Kevin Danso’s loans into permanent deals and the arrivals of youngsters Luka Vuskovic and Kota Takai — with Spurs looking to back new manager Thomas Frank.

His move will, of course, draw the ire of the West Ham fanbase, but there’s far more to it than that.

Mohammed Kudus arrival could spell trouble for Son Heung-min

Kudus‘ arrival is a huge statement of intent from Spurs, who will now seek to re-establish themselves at the top of the Premier League table and add another trophy to the Europa League crown won under Ange Postecoglou.

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However, for Son Heung-min, this may be just the latest step on his path away from Tottenham.

The South Korean is a club legend, notching 173 goals and 101 assists in 454 appearances across all competitions to date since joining from Bayer Leverkusen in 2015.

Given his status as one of the Premier League’s most fearsome attackers, there have surely been plenty of opportunities for Son to leave for pastures new, but he’s remained faithful to Spurs.

However, last season saw a major dip in Son’s performances, failing to register double-figure goals in the Premier League for the first time since his debut Spurs campaign. 10 goals overall represents his worst return since that same 2015/16 campaign.

Son Heung-min and Tottenham facing difficult decision

At 33 years old, Son has started to look a shadow of his former self and was even dropped to the bench by Postecoglou for the Europa League final, playing just 23 minutes at the end of the match.

The likes of Brennan Johnson and Dejan Kulusevski have often been preferred in his position, while Richarlison, Mikey Moore and Wilson Odobert are involved in the battle for places on the wings.

The addition of Kudus — along with Tel on a permanent basis — will surely only serve to push the veteran further down the pecking order.

Son — whose contract expires next summer — must now decide whether he wants to remain as an experienced squad player or find a new challenge.

Indeed, Spurs must also consider whether or not they want to keep such a handsome salary package on the books, given the reduced playing time Son is likely to endure.

Manor Solomon looks set to return to Tottenham Hotspur this pre-season despite his form for Leeds United last term.

Leeds‘ return to the Premier League comes after they won 100 points, scored 95 goals and lifted the Championship trophy, as Solomon’s last-minute winner at Plymouth sealed the title on the final day.

The Tottenham loanee scored 10 goals and added 12 assists to become a crucial cog in Daniel Farke‘s promotion-winning side, but a permanent deal for the Israel international is yet to be agreed this summer.

Solomon’s departure from Elland Road was officially confirmed on 1 July as Leeds farewelled him and Joe Rothwell, but Daniel Farke remains fond of the winger as his Premier League squad takes shape.

Solomon sends ‘remember’ message amid Leeds transfer links

Football Insider revealed back in April that Leeds’ higher-ups saw Solomon as one of six players who are ready-made Premier League starters, and the Whites have shown a clear intent to sign him permanently.

Solomon has also attracted interest from both Marseille and Everton so far this summer with no option to buy the winger included in his initial loan deal at Leeds, and as things stand he remains a Spurs player.

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The 25-year-old hasn’t publicly declared where he plans to play next season, but posted a selection of images on Instagram (8 July) which included him playing and training with the Israel national team.

Solomon’s post was liked by Pascal Struijk and Wilfried Gnonto as well as Junior Firpo despite not including any images of his time at Leeds, and had the four-word caption of: “A summer to remember”.

Solomon switch unlikely as Leeds step up transfer plans

Football Insider Verdict

Solomon’s social media activity doesn’t give much inclination as to where his future lies as he prepares to return to Tottenham for pre-season training, but Leeds will still press on with their plans to sign him.

Former Peacocks goalkeeper Paul Robinson told Football Insider on 4 July that Leeds are doing their upmost to reach a permanent transfer agreement with Tottenham, but have so far been unsuccessful.

Tottenham defender Archie Gray has reacted to a major announcement made by the North London club.

The former Leeds United man made a good account of himself last term, even though Spurs finished just one place above the Premier League relegation zone.

Gray made nine starts during Tottenham’s triumphant Europa League run, epitomising his importance to former boss Ange Postecoglou.

The versatile 19-year-old is now hoping to achieve further success under the stewardship of new head coach Thomas Frank.

Gray reacts as Tottenham make key coaching appointments

On Monday, 7 July, Tottenham announced Frank’s coaching staff ahead of the 2024/25 Premier League season.

The North London club posted on their official Instagram account: “Following the recent appointment of Thomas Frank as our new Head Coach, we can now confirm the full composition of our men’s first team coaching staff ahead of the new season.

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“Further to the previously-announced arrivals of Justin Cochrane (First Team Assistant Coach), Chris Haslam (Head of Performance & First Team Assistant Coach), Andreas Georgson (First Team Assistant Coach) and Joe Newton (First Team Coach Analyst), we can confirm that Matt Wells will remain on the coaching staff as First Team Assistant Coach.

“In addition, we welcome Cameron Campbell as First Team Individual Development Coach and Fabian Otte as First Team Goalkeeper Coach – they arrive following spells at RB Leipzig and Liverpool, respectively.

“Furthermore, we’re pleased to announce that Stuart Lewis and Dean Brill have been promoted into new roles from our Academy.

“Stuart is now First Team Academy Transition Coach following four successful years leading our Under-18s. As part of this new role, he will aid the development and integration of our young players into the senior set-up.

“Dean becomes First Team Assistant Goalkeeping Coach, having previously worked as Head of Academy Goalkeeping.”

The post attracted a like from Gray, who made 28 Premier League appearances last season.

Gray set to thrive under Frank

Football Insider verdict

Amid a host of injuries to first team players at Tottenham last season, Gray featured more heavily for the North Londoners than he otherwise would have done as a teenager who had only previously played for then Championship club Leeds.

However, the 19-year-old did not shy away from his heightened responsibilities and performed well as a centre back, fullback, and midfielder when required.

Gray further exemplified his talent by making three appearances during the England Under-21s’ successful European Championship campaign.

But after excelling under Postecoglou, the former Leeds man is set to perform even better under Frank, who has proven his exceptional coaching ability throughout his Brentford career.

The former Bees boss managed to turn ex-Championship players such as Bryan Mbeumo into some of the Premier League’s most notable players, and should be able to help Gray hit a new level in Tottenham colours.

Tottenham midfielder Archie Gray was quick to react on social media as Spurs confirmed their latest signing ahead of the new season.

Spurs have already seen significant change this summer, with Thomas Frank taking over from Ange Postecoglou last month as the new head coach.

The club wasted no time in getting to work in the transfer market, as Tottenham secured Mathys Tel on a permanent deal following his brief loan spell.

The Tottenham hierarchy are expected to back Frank heavily, with interest shown in players such as Bryan Mbeumo and Mohammed Kudus as part of plans to strengthen the squad.

In the latest development, the club announced on social media that they have made another signing, but this time, a player who will join their academy setup as part of their long-term strategy.

Tottenham confirm Max McFadden signing after Leeds exit

Tottenham have officially announced the signing of Max McFadden, with the midfielder joining the club’s Under-21 squad following the expiry of his contract at Leeds United.

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The 19-year-old took to Instagram to share his excitement about the move, writing: “Happy to have joined this amazing club, can’t wait for this next chapter to begin. COYS.”

Supporters may have noticed Gray, who also came through the Leeds academy before joining Spurs last summer, leaving a message of support on the post saying: “Go on the boy.”

McFadden has signed a contract at Spurs running until 2027. The midfielder spent the last three years at Elland Road after previous spells with Colchester United, West Ham and Southend United.

Last season, he made 12 appearances in Premier League 2 for Leeds, scoring two goals in under 700 minutes of action.

The versatile youngster is capable of operating in several positions across midfield, having featured as an attacking midfielder, central midfielder, and even leading the line as a striker.

Tottenham face Chelsea competition for Mohamed Kudus signing

While Spurs continue to strengthen their youth ranks, they are also working on bolstering their senior squad, with West Ham’s Mohamed Kudus among their top targets this summer.

Reports suggest the Ghana international is open to a move to North London, but Tottenham face strong competition from Chelsea for Kudus, who are considering a late swoop to hijack the deal.

Football Insider revealed West Ham have already rejected an offer from Spurs fro Kudus, believed to be worth around £50m with £5m in add-ons.

With Chelsea monitoring the situation closely, Spurs may need to act fast with an improved bid if they are to avoid missing out on the forward.

Tottenham have been issued a stark warning over defender Cristian Romero and his future at the club as Atletico Madrid intensify their interest.

Diego Simeone has made Romero one of his top targets to bolster his defensive ranks this summer and Spurs are expected to accept an offer from the Spanish side.

The 27-year-old has a £60million valuation placed on him by Spurs, who bought him for £42.5m from Atalanta in 2021.

Romero has since made 124 appearances for the club and started in their Europa League final win over Manchester United.

Frank issued warning as Romero seeks exit

Pundit Tony Cascarino, talking to talkSPORT, felt Spurs shouldn’t need to convince Romero to stay put in North London.

Cascarino believes the Argentine does not want to remain at the club: “Convincing players I am not a fan of that you shouldn’t be trying to convince a player to stay.

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“You’ve got to want to be there and I’m not sure he wants to be at Spurs.

“I’ve always felt that he’s played his best football that he’s played his best football when he’s had to and when Atletico have made a clear indication they want him.”

The former Chelsea player then provided a message for new Spurs boss Thomas Frank: “That would be one of his issues [Frank], he’s got to look players in the eye and find out do you want to be at this football club.”

Frank should be prioritising defence over attack

Football Insider verdict

Spurs are standing firm in their valuation of Romero, and whilst Frank may not want to sell the defender, if the 27-year-old does not want to be at the club then he should be allowed to leave.

Frank already has plenty on his to do list and a £60m boost to his transfer funds would be a welcome increase.

Romero, and his partnership with Micky van de Ven, would be a loss that Frank would need to replace.

Defensive additions have so far not been a key part of Frank’s summer spending despite Spurs conceding 65 goals in 38 Premier League games last season.

The Dane is targeting forward options with Mohammed Kudus a top target from West Ham.

The club could also activate Eberechi Eze’s release clause or make a shock swoop for Celtic’s Daizen Maeda.

Aston Villa’s Jacob Ramsey has also been linked with a move to North London.

Given his Brentford teams were known to be defensively sound and compact, Frank is currently trusting the Spurs squad he has inherited to become harder to beat.

Romero’s departure would force a defensive addition to be signed, something which Frank should be focusing more on.

Tottenham Hotspur midfielder James Maddison has responded to Manchester United defender Harry Maguire amid speculation he could leave North London this summer.

New Spurs manager Thomas Frank has Crystal Palace ace Eberechi Eze on his list of transfer targets, which could force Maddison out of the club.

The 28-year-old has been at Spurs for two seasons after joining from Leicester City in a £40million deal in 2023.

A knee injury forced him to miss the final six matches of the season and he could only watch from the sidelines as Spurs beat Manchester United in the Europa League final to win their first trophy in 17 years.

Maguire message prompts Maddison reaction

Maguire took to Instagram (6 July) to post multiple pictures of him reflecting on his post-season break.

The 32-year-old has become a key player at United since Ruben Amorim’s arrival in November, making 40 appearances for the Red Devils last season, scoring four goals.

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Maguire captioned his post: “Summer 25 – Memories made,” with a red love heart emoji, which was liked by Maddison.

The pair were team mates for a season at Leicester City back in the 2018/29 season helping the Foxes to a ninth placed Premier League finish that campaign.

Frank’s forward’s search could lead to Maddison exit

Football Insider verdict

Frank’s pursuit of Eze currently looks set to be hijacked by closest rivals Arsenal.

It was exclusively revealed by Football Insider that Arsenal are exploring the prospect of activating Eze’s £68m release clause after enquiring about his availability.

The Gunners though are accelerating plans for Chelsea’s Noni Madueke, so it remains to be seen whether they can afford both players alongside a striker.

Eze may therefore still be available, and his arrival could limit opportunities for Maddison in the number 10 position.

The seven time capped England star will have to prove to Frank during pre-season that he deserves a place in the Danes starting line-up.

Forwards though may be required at Spurs this summer with the uncertain futures for Richarlison, Son Heung-min, Manor Solomon and Bryan Gil.

Chelsea will create a transfer nightmare for Premier League rivals Tottenham by hijacking their move for Mohammed Kudus.

Kudus has shone in West Ham colours, notching five goals and four assists for the East Londoners last term.

But after the Hammers finished just 14th in the Premier League last season, the Ghana international is set for pastures new.

Amid their quest to sign a new right winger, Tottenham have unsuccessfully bid for Kudus this summer, but retain an interest in the 24-year-old.

Chelsea set to hand Tottenham transfer nightmare by bidding higher for Kudus

Thomas Frank must desperately add more quality to his Spurs ranks after the North London side qualified for the Champions League via their Europa League triumph despite their domestic woes.

Meanwhile, Kudus’ West Ham exploits suggest that he could be an ideal asset for Tottenham, while he boasts Champions League experience thanks to his Ajax spell.

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However, according to The Guardian’s Jacob Steinberg via X on Saturday 5 July: “West Ham turned down a £50million proposal for Kudus from Spurs earlier this week but have not received any new offers since then.

“As reported earlier, they are expecting a bigger bid from Chelsea.”

If Tottenham miss out on Kudus’ signature, they will be in a concerning position in the transfer market, as fellow target Bryan Mbeumo is set to join Manchester United.

Meanwhile, the North Londoners had also set their sights on Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo before he signed a fresh long-term contract with the Cherries.

Spurs move would be better for Kudus than Chelsea switch

Football Insider verdict

If West Ham accept a higher bid for Kudus from Chelsea, Tottenham will have missed out on yet another transfer target, which would come as a major blow for new boss Frank.

Meanwhile, the Hammers man should hope that Spurs successfully land his signature rather than the Stamford Bridge outfit.

Even though both London rivals can offer Kudus Champions League football, Tottenham should be able to hand him more game time than the Blues.

Enzo Maresca has already been busy in the transfer market, while Chelsea have signed fellow winger Jamie Gittens, who will likely be a starter next season.

While the West Londoners are set to facilitate Noni Madueke’s exit, Kudus would still face competition in wide areas from the likes of Pedro Neto and Christopher Nkunku.

On the other hand, Tottenham’s previous advances for Mbeumo and Semenyo indicate how keen they are to add a new right winger to their starting lineup.

Tottenham have been handed a boost in their pursuit of OGC Nice forward Evann Gussand as they race a number of top clubs for his signature.

Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed what his sources have said about the 24-year-old’s future amid growing interest in a big-money move this summer.

Alongside a host of English clubs, Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce also now hold a strong interest in the Ivory Coast international but he is not interested in a move to Turkey.

This comes after Football Insider revealed on 4 July that Tottenham have joined the race for Guessand as Thomas Frank plans to refresh his forward line.

Sources say Spurs are confident they can beat the likes of Brighton and Wolves to the forward’s signature given their qualification for next season’s Champions League.

The Ligue 1 outfit have set a £20-25million asking price for the forward, who has three years remaining on his contract, after he scored 12 goals and picked up seven assists last term.

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Tottenham plot move to sign Nice star Evann Guessand

Tottenham are planning to sign a new forward this summer and have also been linked with moves for the likes of Mohammed Kudus and Eberechi Eze.

Guessand has been tipped to be a good fit for Frank’s plans given his physical profile and ability to play anywhere across the front line.

Now, O’Rourke has explained that the forward’s decision to turn down advances from Fenerbahce has given Spurs a boost in their transfer ambitions.

“Nice are bracing themselves for interest in the upcoming window,” he told Football Insider.

“There’s been talk that Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce would like to sign him as well.

“My sources tell me the player himself is not overly keen on that move, so that will be positive news for his Premier League suitors.

“Looking at the interested clubs, Brighton, West Ham, Wolves…

“Tottenham I’m sure would be pretty hopeful that, if they do follow up their interest, that they could win the race for his services.”

Atletico Madrid prepare to step up Cristian Romero interest

Incoming deals are not the only focus in North London this summer, as they are also bracing for interest in key players including Cristian Romero.

Football Insider revealed on 5 July that Tottenham are expected to accept offers for Romero as Atletico Madrid look set to step up their pursuit of the defender.

Diego Simeone has made no secret of his desire to land the 27-year-old and he will push to bring him to Madrid right up until the September deadline.

This comes after former Spurs scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Atletico have held talks with Romero’s agent about what it would take to sign him.

Tottenham star James Maddison has responded to an emotional message shared by teammate Dominic Solanke.

Both the creative midfielder and the striker will hope to enjoy a successful campaign under new Spurs boss Thomas Frank next term.

Maddison scored 12 goals and produced 10 assists in 45 appearances last season, while Solanke notched 16 goals and eight assists in the same number of outings.

Meanwhile, despite their Europa League triumph, the North Londoners finished just 17th in the Premier League last term and must enjoy a better domestic season under Frank.

Maddison responds as Solanke shares emotional social media post

Both Maddison and Solanke will have an early opportunity to impress Frank when Tottenham face Champions League winners PSG in the Super Cup final on 13 August.

Meanwhile, on Friday, 4 July, the striker took to Instagram as he shared wedding photos alongside the caption: “Truly Unforgettable moment of our lives, surrounded by the best people in the world.

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“My other half, for life.”

Maddison, who scored in the Europa League semi-final against Bodo/Glimt in his last Spurs appearance, commented: “You romantic devil you.”

Tottenham will want more from Maddison next season

Football Insider verdict

Maddison has become a key player for Spurs since joining the North London side from Leicester City ahead of the 2023/24 season.

However, during his first campaign in Tottenham colours, the attacking midfielder scored just four goals in 30 appearances across all competitions, although he did make nine assists.

Last term’s return of 12 goals and 10 assists was significantly better than his 2023/24 efforts, but Frank will want more from the Englishman next season.

Maddison’s career-best tally arrived in 2021/22, when he notched 18 goals and 12 assists in 53 appearances for Leicester, helping the East Midlands side finish eighth in the Premier League.

As Spurs look to restore their status as a top-flight highflier, also juggling Champions League duties, Frank will need the 28-year-old to produce his best attacking performances regularly.

Tottenham have joined Brighton, West Ham and Wolves in the race to sign OGC Nice forward Evann Guessand in the summer transfer window.

Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed what sources have told him about the 24-year-old’s future and a potential move to the Premier League.

Nice are bracing themselves for interest in Guessand over the coming weeks and are reluctant to let him leave after qualifying for the Champions League.

The Ligue 1 outfit have set a £20-25million asking price for the forward, who has three years remaining on his contract, after he scored 12 goals and picked up seven assists last term.

Tottenham are planning to sign a new forward this summer and have also been linked with moves for the likes of Mohammed Kudus and Eberechi Eze.

There is a belief that Guessand’s profile would make him a perfect fit for Thomas Frank’s side and they are now prepared to rival Premier League clubs for his signature.

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Tottenham eye Evann Guessand deal after Kudus latest

Former Spurs scout Mick Brown told Football Insider on 2 July that Chelsea will rival Tottenham’s efforts to sign Kudus and want to beat them to the deal.

The Ivory Coast international represents a potential alternative should Spurs miss out, and they are keeping a close eye on his situation at Nice.

O’Rourke explained that a lot of Premier League clubs are keen on Guessand amid a growing feeling that he will make the move to England.

“A lot of Premier League clubs are looking at Guessand,” he told Football Insider.

“He had a very good season for Nice last season, he got 12 goals and seven assists in 33 Ligue 1 games, so he has a good record.

“He’s got the physical profile that you think would be a success in English football, and can play anywhere across the front line as well.

“There’s been interest from Brighton, West Ham, Wolves and now Tottenham also have an active interest in Guessand.

“Nice are bracing themselves for interest in this upcoming transfer window.

“For Tottenham, he would be a good signing, he would fit into how Thomas Frank plays.

“The way Guessand can play anywhere across the front line would make him a valuable addition.

“Nice will be hoping they can keep hold of him after qualifying for the Champions League themselves.

“They’re looking for a big fee, around £20-25million for a player who still has three years left on his contract.

“It’s not an easy deal to do, but it’s no surprise that a lot of Premier League clubs are looking at him.”

Jacob Ramsey update emerges after Aston Villa latest

On top of their interest in the likes of Guessand, Kudus and Eze, Tottenham are also considering a move to sign Aston Villa’s Jacob Ramsey this summer.

Brown told Football Insider on 3 July that Ramsey is interested in joining Tottenham amid uncertainty over his future under Unai Emery at Villa Park.

After making 25 stars across his 45 appearances in all competitions last season, the midfielder is keen to play regular minutes from the start and believes he can do so at Spurs.

This comes after Brown told Football Insider that Tottenham have made contact with Ramsey’s agent and are weighing up a formal offer for his signature.