GiveMeSport

Tottenham Hotspur’s search for a new left-winger is gathering momentum as recruitment planning continues behind the scenes. While several high-profile names have been linked with Thomas Frank’s side, Spurs’ internal process has placed heavy emphasis on data, scouting reports and long-term fit rather than headline appeal alone.

That approach has opened the door to less obvious options being seriously considered alongside established stars. As Tottenham assess how best to strengthen their wide areas, one name in particular has risen rapidly through the club’s internal rankings.

Fresh reporting has now clarified who that is.

Spurs identify surprise winger target

According to TEAMtalk, Tottenham Hotspur hold a strong interest in Christos Tzolis, with the winger highly rated by both the club’s analytics department and senior scouting staff.

Tottenham have been monitoring a wide pool of left-sided options, including Ademola Lookman, Rodrygo, Savinho, Nico Williams and Maghnes Akliouche. However, TEAMtalk report that Tzolis is viewed internally on the same level as any of those alternatives.

Sources indicate that Spurs’ analytics team, alongside a high-ranking scout at the club, believe the Greece international could be the most effective signing for Frank’s system.

Why Tzolis has impressed Tottenham’s recruitment team

Tzolis has been in outstanding form for Club Brugge since joining in 2024, following a prolific spell with Fortuna Düsseldorf, where he finished as the top scorer in Bundesliga 2.

The 23-year-old, who has been described as 'phenomenal', enjoyed an excellent first season in Belgium, registering 16 goals and nine assists, and has carried that form into the current campaign with seven goals and nine assists from 17 starts.

TEAMtalk add that Spurs scouts have watched Tzolis regularly in recent months, impressed by his consistency, versatility across the frontline and ability to combine work rate with end product.

Record fee could shape Spurs’ next move

Despite Tottenham’s interest, any deal would not be straightforward. TEAMtalk report that Brugge would demand a club-record fee to allow Tzolis to leave, valuing him at at least €40 million (£35m).

That figure would surpass their current record sale - the €37m received from AC Milan for Charles De Ketelaere in 2022. Spurs, meanwhile, recently raised around £35m through the sale of Brennan Johnson to Crystal Palace, which could influence their thinking.

Internally, some at Tottenham believe that if Tzolis can be secured in that price range, it could represent strong value given his age, trajectory and output. With Manor Solomon having departed on loan to Fiorentina, the need for reinforcements is clear.

For now, Tzolis remains one of the most highly rated options on Spurs’ list - and one that could yet become a defining signing if the numbers align.

Tottenham Hotspur are continuing to explore creative midfield options during the January transfer window as they look to add greater control and fluency to Thomas Frank’s side. While Spurs are not expected to rush into deals, there is an acceptance internally that the squad needs added coherence in key areas.

Recruitment discussions have therefore extended beyond short-term fixes, with Tottenham assessing players whose situations elsewhere could open doors. One familiar name has resurfaced amid renewed speculation, with developments at a London rival now shaping the conversation.

Fresh reporting has added momentum to that link.

Spurs considering move for Paqueta

According to The Boy Hotspur, Tottenham Hotspur are considering a bid for Lucas Paqueta, with West Ham United potentially open to selling at the right price.

The report suggests West Ham could entertain offers in the region of €30 million (£25–26m) if an acceptable proposal arrives, although no official bid has yet been submitted. Writing to subscribers, The Boy Hotspur claimed: “Spurs are close, I am told this afternoon.”

Paqueta as been a key figure at West Ham since arriving from Olympique Lyonnais in 2022, but the Hammers’ difficult season has raised questions about potential departures. Paqueta reportedly earns in the region of £150,000-a-week with the Hammers. The Brazilian was cleared of spot-fixing allegations in mid-2025, removing a significant barrier that previously complicated any transfer discussions.

This is not a new idea. Tottenham held a strong interest in Paqueta during the summer of 2025, with enquiries widely reported at the time. Discussions included exploratory talks with his representatives and even potential swap structures, but no agreement materialised.

Sources including Fabrizio Romano confirmed Spurs’ interest last year, noting that Paqueta was open to a European move. West Ham, however, demanded a high fee and were reluctant to strengthen a London rival - particularly after already losing Mohammed Kudus to Tottenham that summer.

The current context is different. West Ham’s league position, coupled with their need for funds and reinforcements, could make negotiations more realistic than before.

My view: why this deal makes sense for Spurs - with caveats

From a Tottenham perspective, Paqueta fits a clear need. Spurs have lacked rhythm and composure in midfield, and this is not simply about deflecting pressure away from Frank. Adding a technically secure, press-resistant midfielder could help stabilise performances and raise the baseline of the team.

That said, there are obvious complications. Selling to a direct London rival would not be popular with West Ham supporters, especially after last summer’s business. Even at a reduced price, internal resistance could slow progress.

For Spurs, patience will be key. If West Ham’s stance softens further, this could be a deal that finally moves after years of speculation. For now, it remains one to watch - but not yet one to assume.

Tottenham Hotspur are assessing their squad options as the January transfer window progresses, with decisions to be made over players on the fringes of Thomas Frank’s regular plans. While Spurs are not actively looking to overhaul their attacking group, there is an understanding that certain situations may need addressing as the month unfolds.

Several clubs across Europe are closely monitoring opportunities involving Premier League players who could benefit from increased minutes. One such case has now drawn attention, with developments suggesting Tottenham may be open to a temporary solution.

Fresh reporting has offered insight into that stance.

Tottenham open to loan exit for forward

According to Yeni Akit, Tottenham Hotspur are prepared to evaluate loan offers for Mathys Tel during the January transfer window.

The report claims the 21-year-old, who has been described as 'unbelievable', is frustrated by his lack of regular minutes under Thomas Frank and is keen to secure an immediate move away this winter. Spurs are said to be open to a temporary departure and will assess proposals as they arrive.

Tel joined Tottenham on a permanent basis for £30m last summer after initially arriving on loan from Bayern Munich in February. However, his involvement this season has been limited, starting just three league matches - prior to Sunderland - and scoring two goals from 419 minutes across 15 appearances.

Galatasaray monitoring situation closely

Galatasaray are among the clubs to have registered an interest, with the Istanbul side keeping a close eye on Tel’s situation as they weigh up attacking reinforcements.

The Frenchman’s ability to operate both centrally and from wide areas has caught the attention of Okan Buruk, who values versatility within his forward line. Yeni Akit report that Galatasaray would be willing to submit an official offer if the conditions are deemed “reasonable”, although no details have been provided regarding the structure of any potential deal.

At this stage, interest remains exploratory, but Tel’s profile and availability make him an attractive short-term option if Spurs formally open the door.

Roma interest adds competition

Galatasaray are not the only club monitoring Tel. Last month, Corriere della Sera reported that AS Roma had contacted the player’s agent to discuss a possible January move.

Roma could yet emerge as competition should Tottenham confirm their willingness to sanction a loan. Any decision is expected to hinge on the destination, playing role and overall suitability for the player’s development.

For now, Tottenham are weighing their options - but with interest building across Europe, Tel’s future looks increasingly likely to be resolved before the window closes.

Tottenham Hotspur are continuing to assess attacking options during the January transfer window as they weigh up whether to add further depth to Thomas Frank’s squad for the second half of the season. With Spurs active in multiple competitions, recruitment discussions remain ongoing behind the scenes as opportunities emerge.

Several forward profiles are being reviewed, particularly players whose situations elsewhere could still shift as the window progresses. One name linked to recent internal conversations has drawn increasing attention across the league, with developments at his current club shaping what could happen next.

Fresh reporting has now added clarity on Tottenham’s position.

Tottenham make enquiry for Man City forward

According to TEAMtalk, Tottenham Hotspur have made enquiries about Omar Marmoush during the current transfer window. The report states that Spurs have asked about the 26-year-old’s availability but have not submitted a formal bid.

Manchester City are understood to be reluctant to allow a mid-season exit, valuing Marmoush’s role during a congested fixture schedule. Marmoush joined City from Eintracht Frankfurt in January 2025 for £59 million and is under contract until the summer of 2029. His opportunities have been limited so far this season, with just two Premier League starts and one Champions League start, despite Pep Guardiola previously describing him as “one of the best”.

Why Marmoush is on Tottenham’s radar

From a Tottenham perspective, Marmoush’s appeal lies in his versatility. The £370,000-a-week Egypt international can operate as a central striker, a No.10 or from wide areas, fitting Frank’s preference for flexible attacking options.

Despite restricted minutes, Marmoush has contributed nine goals and four assists in 40 appearances for City, suggesting there is output to be unlocked with greater responsibility. Spurs are also mindful of managing workloads across competitions, making adaptable forwards particularly valuable at this stage of the campaign.

Marmoush - described as 'world-class' by the official Bundesliga YouTube account - is currently away with Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations, but that has not prevented clubs from positioning themselves as the window unfolds.

Villa interest and City stance shape January picture

TEAMtalk also report that Aston Villa have explored a potential move for Marmoush, adding competition to the situation. Transfer insider Dean Jones has suggested Villa are assessing whether a deal could be possible.

However, City’s reluctance to sell remains the key obstacle. Egypt manager Hossam Hassan has described Marmoush as “an asset for any team” and urged him to remain in the Premier League.

For now, Tottenham’s enquiry appears to be part of ongoing information-gathering rather than an imminent move. Whether that develops further will depend on City’s stance - and how the market evolves as January continues.

Tottenham Hotspur have emerged as surprise contenders to sign Carlos Baleba from Brighton, according to reports from the Daily Briefing.

Thomas Frank's side are hoping to add genuine quality to their side in order to start challenging for European football once again after a disappointing couple of years.

Despite winning the Europa League last term, Spurs finished 17th in the Premier League and are currently struggling in the bottom half this time around as they continue to struggle under Frank.

After selling Brennan Johnson to Crystal Palace, the focus is now on recruiting quality players who can improve the club's fortunes.

Tottenham Plot Shock Baleba Deal

Tottenham are now among the clubs interested in a deal to sign Baleba, as per reports from the Daily Briefing.

Described as 'exceptional', the Brighton star has emerged as one of the most in-demand stars in the Premier League with the Seagulls reportedly looking for around £86million for the star.

Spurs have joined Man United and Liverpool in the hunt for the midfielder, who has scored four goals in 96 games for the south coast club.

Thomas Frank's side have also been linked with a move to sign Red Devils' target Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace.

With Baleba away with Cameroon at AFCON, his future is unlikely to be decided until the summer when a number of suitors will battle it out for his signature.

No Talks Yet Held Over Baleba

Tottenham's interest in Baleba undoubtedly adds an extra element to the transfer saga, but no deal is expected to be done imminently.

Manchester United's interest has been long-standing with the club holding talks via intermediaries over a deal to sign him in the summer, but the Seagulls rebuffed them as they looked to hold on to their star man.

Sky Sports then reported on Friday night (2 Jan) that there had been new talks between the clubs over a deal to take the player to Old Trafford in January.

That, however, was rebuffed by Brighton's CEO Paul Barber. He told talkSPORT: "No call from Old Trafford. No call from anyone connected to Manchester United.

"We have no plans or desire to sell Carlos [Baleba] in this window, or in any future window, but we know he's a talented player and he's got a lot of options ahead of him in the future.

"For us right now, he's an important player in the second half of the season, and we're looking forward to getting him back from AFCON."

Where Baleba will be playing his football remains very much up in the air.

Tottenham Hotspur are increasingly confident they may have a realistic chance of signing Manchester City forward Savinho this month, according to reports.

The struggling north London side are prepared to back Thomas Frank with new signings during the January transfer window and have identified Savinho as a priority target.

The Brazilian was eyed by Spurs before the season, but Man City were reluctant to sell and instead tied the 21-year-old to a new six-year contract in October.

However, Savinho’s limited involvement under Pep Guardiola this season could see Tottenham try to sign the forward again in January, potentially on an initial loan.

Tottenham Remain Keen on Savinho

According to CaughtOffside, Man City are expected to sell at least one attacker this month amid the impending arrival of Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth.

Savinho, as well as Norway international Oscar Bobb, are reportedly seen as the two main candidates to leave, as their places in Guardiola’s pecking order could drop even further after Semenyo’s arrival.

Savinho, who was forced to miss the start of the season through injury, has made just four Premier League starts for Man City in 2025/26, registering two assists.

The £100,000-a-week forward has scored only one league goal for Man City since his arrival from Girona in the summer of 2024, netting in their 2-0 win over Leicester in December 2024.

He was forced off in the second half of the 0-0 draw with Sunderland on Thursday and is set to miss Chelsea’s visit to the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

Savinho Could Replace Brennan Johnson

Tottenham are an attacker short following Brennan Johnson’s move to Crystal Palace. The Wales international left Spurs for £35m earlier this week in a club-record deal for Oliver Glasner’s side.

Johnson has made only six league starts for Spurs this season, scoring two goals in the first two games of the campaign, including a 2-0 win over Man City.

The wide forward is expected to be available for Palace’s visit to Newcastle United on Sunday, where Glasner’s side will be looking to bounce back after failing to win their last four games.

Thomas Frank Under Pressure

Thomas Frank is under pressure at Tottenham following a difficult first half of the Premier League season, with just seven wins from his first 19 games.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Thomas Frank is coming under increasing pressure from supporters following another disappointing performance against his former side, Brentford.

The 52-year-old joined Spurs from the Bees in the summer but many underwhelming displays have followed since, including the goalless draw in London on New Year's Day.

Frank was booed when he approached the away end at the Gtech Community Stadium following the final whistle, which showed the current mood among the match-going fanbase.

While the Dane deserves some more time to try and turn the tide at Tottenham and get his team producing performances which are better on the eye, there will be question marks from ENIC whether he is the right man for the job beyond this season, and for the long-term.

One manager who could be available next summer is Mauricio Pochettino, following the 2026 North American World Cup.

Tottenham Must Bring Pochettino Back in 2026

Tottenham sacked Mauricio Pochettino in 2019 following five years in charge of the club, with the obvious intention of trying to reach the next level as Jose Mourinho was appointed as the Argentine's successor.

Neither Mourinho nor the subsequent hires of Nuno Espirito Santo, Antonio Conte and Ange Postecoglou - taking away the Europa League success - have really worked out, and Frank is yet to really make his mark either.

One of the main criticisms of Frank is his football, which has been described as unwatchable as his team struggle to impact the final third.

The latest goalless draw means that Tottenham have scored just two goals in their previous four matches, and fans want to see better than that. Postecoglou was sacked in the summer having played more entertaining football, but ultimately finishing in 17th position in the Premier League.

Another mid-season managerial change wouldn't be ideal for ENIC, and they would be likely be unable to convince Pochettino to return to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium now, given he will take charge of the World Cup hosts in six months' time.

But Spurs should be sounding the 'world-class' 53-year-old out about an extraordinary second spell in charge following the tournament, with reports that the club's owners see him as the number one target should Frank get the sack.

Pochettino Wants Premier League Return

While he is happy with the job he is currently in, Pochettino has told the BBC that he would 'love' to return to the Premier League in the future.

The appeal of the Argentine is that he is a manager who the fans loved, and his appointment would be extremely well received by the majority of fans.

It would be a chance for the Spurs hierarchy to unite everyone at the club and that is exactly what they need if they want to kick on again.

Of course, the old adage is that 'you should never go back to your old club', but Tottenham and Pochettino feels like a different situation to many others.

The manager led Spurs to the Champions League final in 2019 and no manager has come close to doing the same since, albeit Postecoglou's Europa League triumph will live long in the memories.

Pochettino Back to Spurs Written in the Stars

For many reasons, Pochettino coming back to Tottenham does feel written in the stars, and he would bring an attractive style of play for fans to enjoy once again.

Spurs don't feel like they're going anywhere under Frank at the moment and while he perhaps does deserve a full season to give him time to implement his ideas, the feeling right now is that it won't work long-term.

In that regard Tottenham don't have anything to lose with Pochettino, and he might be the best and most realistic fit for them in the summer of 2026.

Even when Pochettino left it felt as though he would be back managing them one day, and that moment might not be too far away. Watch this space.

Tottenham Hotspur are interested in a deal to sign Brazilian left-back Souza from Santos during the January transfer window after reports from his home nation, according to journalist Tom Barclay.

According to GIVEMESPORT senior correspondent Ben Jacobs, Spurs could make a second move to try and bring Manchester City winger Savinho to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this month to strengthen Thomas Frank's attacking options, having failed to agree a deal during the summer.

The City forward has been described as a 'dream' target to replace Brennan Johnson, who completed his switch to Premier League rivals Crystal Palace on Friday.

But Savinho might not be the only Brazilian player who the north Londoners attempt to sign in the next few weeks, with interest in the 19-year-old Santos player confirmed.

Tottenham Keen to Sign Souza

Reports from Brazil in recent hours had alluded to Tottenham's interest in the teenage full-back, with suggestions they've even made an official bid for his services.

While Barclay hasn't confirmed if things have gone that far, the Sun journalist says Spurs do have an interest in bringing the 'gem' to the club in the next month.

Despite his tender years, Souza has already made 38 appearances for Santos - who Neymar also represents - scoring one goal and providing four assists.

Souza Has Been Heavily Praised

Interest from Tottenham and other clubs is no surprise given the rave reviews Souza has been getting in his homeland.

According to scout Antonio Mango, the defender has a 'sweet left foot' and has been described as enthusiastic, tenacious, aggressive and energetic.

Meanwhile, South American football journalist Nathan Joyes believes that the 'athletic' teenager's attacking numbers would drastically improve if he was part of a better squad.

Tottenham Need More Depth at Left-Back

Tottenham's current options at left-back are Destiny Udogie, Ben Davies and Djed Spence, although the latter's natural position is on the opposite flank.

With Davies' contract expiring at the end of June and with the Welshman looking set to depart, it is no surprise to see that the north London outfit may be looking to bring in a new player.

With a left-back and an attacker on the agenda, it could be a busy month of incomings for Tottenham as they look to push themselves up the Premier League table and boost their Champions League hopes in the second half of the season.

Tottenham Hotspur have checked on Levante striker Etta Eyong as they aim to bring in reinforcements in the final third this month, according to MailOnline.

Spurs are soon to be one attacker down, with Brennan Johnson edging closer to leaving the club already this window. GIVEMESPORT sources have confirmed that a deal for Johnson to move to Crystal Palace is now done, while his medical was scheduled for Thursday night.

The north London club will receive a fee in the region of £35m for Johnson, and they could allow them to strengthen their squad over the coming weeks. Johnson enjoyed an impressive season under Ange Postecoglou in terms of his final third production, but he's struggled to make too much of an impact this term under Thomas Frank.

Tottenham Eyeing Forward Reinforcements in January

According to a report from MailOnline, Tottenham have checked on Levante striker Eyong as they search for new attacking additions ahead of the second half of the season. Spurs want to add better forward options during the January transfer window, and the sale of Johnson means a new attacking signing might be necessary.

Eyong has scored five goals and provided one assist for Levante in La Liga this season, while he also contributed with three goals and assists combined for Villarreal before leaving the club in the summer. He's already making a significant impact at senior level at the age of 22, and he's currently at the African Cup of Nations with Cameroon.

Eyong is a natural striker, so he wouldn't be a like-for-like replacement for Johnson, but he would certainly improve Tottenham's attacking options this month.

Tottenham Need Another Winger

Eyong, described as 'special', would be a strong addition to Frank's attacking options, but there's certainly an argument to suggest that they need a winger as more of a priority, particularly with Johnson heading through the exit door. Frank's current centre-forward options include Mathys Tel, Richarlison, Randal Kolo Muani, and Dominic Solanke, so it's not a position they are in desperate need of strengthening.

There's no doubt Tottenham do need to do business after a disappointing start to the campaign, but the January window is notoriously difficult to do bring in players at the right value.

Tottenham Hotspur fans booed manager Thomas Frank following their 0-0 draw with Brentford on New Year's Day.

The Lilywhites were looking for consecutive wins for the first time in the Premier League since the opening two games of the season, but failed to create any real clear-cut chances and were instead held to a goalless draw for the first time since May 2022 by Frank's former side.

The Danish manager has come under pressure for his style of play in recent months since taking over as manager from Ange Postecoglou in the summer, and the most recent performance seems to have rubbed fans up the wrong way once again.

Tottenham Fans Boo Thomas Frank

After the game, the Spurs squad went over to the away section of the crowd to applaud the fans, and were joined by Frank and his coaching staff.

Journalist Alasdair Gold revealed that he got booed by the fans as he did so, and now footage has emerged from within the crowd where those boos are very audible, as Frank claps and then quickly walks away before showing any kind of reaction.

Results this season have not been good enough for the north London side, and they currently sit 12th in the Premier League at the halfway stage of the season, with just seven wins and 27 goals scored in their 19 games.

That's despite Frank spending big in the summer to bring in the likes of Xavi Simons, Randal Kolo Muani and Mohammed Kudus to bolster his attacking options, as he looked to build upon their Europa League triumph.

Frank Needs Goals to Turn Fans Around

There's an easy way for Frank to win the fans back and get them on side, and it starts with scoring more goals and actually playing to win games, rather than not lose them.

Too often this season the team has failed to be threatening, and it leads to fans questioning decisions from the management. Despite their troubles in front of goal, Frank continues to play three more defensive-minded midfielders on a regular basis, but he must abandon that principle and instead start looking to play on the front foot.

Should the team start to score more goals, by default they will then start to win more games, and that will then see fans become more accepting of the situation. Without that though, his days in charge are beginning to look numbered.