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Tottenham’s growing interest in Yan Diomande is not simply another name surfacing in the rumour cycle. It is a clear signal of intent. With talks described as “very advanced” between Spurs and the RB Leipzig winger’s representatives by Sky Sports, Thomas Frank’s vision for Tottenham is beginning to take a more defined shape.

This is not about chasing hype or reacting late in the market. This is a targeted move that reflects how Frank wants his Spurs side to look, move and hurt opponents.

Diomande’s rise in the Bundesliga has been rapid and eye-catching, with reports suggesting he has an £88m release clause.

At just 20, the Ivorian has already developed into one of Leipzig’s most dangerous wide threats, combining explosive acceleration with a fearless approach in one-on-one situations. Leipzig are calm publicly and have not yet opened formal negotiations, but Tottenham’s acceleration behind the scenes suggests serious intent. Frank is not looking for cosmetic upgrades. He is hunting profiles that directly fit his tactical identity.

Frank’s attacking systems have always been based on intensity, vertical movement and constant stress on opposing defences. His wide players are not there to recycle possession or hold shape conservatively. They are there to force mistakes, commit defenders and attack the space behind full-backs repeatedly. Diomande’s game fits that philosophy almost perfectly.

He plays on instinct, drives directly at defenders and is most dangerous when the game becomes stretched. That suits a Tottenham side expected to lean further into structured pressing and fast transitions under Frank rather than slow, possession-heavy control. Diomande would not just add pace to Spurs’ attack - he would change the rhythm of it. Full-backs would be pinned deeper, recovery runs would be constant, and central attackers would benefit from the space created by his vertical threat.

This is why Tottenham’s interest feels calculated rather than opportunistic. Diomande - described as a 'monster in the making' by one analyst and compared to Kylian Mbappe by another site - is not being targeted as a luxury addition. He is being viewed as a functional piece in a system that demands constant forward momentum.

Why Spurs Are Moving Early

The phrase “very advanced talks” is significant. Tottenham clearly do not want to be dragged into a full-scale bidding war once the summer window opens properly. Leipzig’s model is well known. They remain patient, allow interest to build, and sell only when maximum leverage has been achieved. Once multiple elite Champions League clubs move from monitoring to formal negotiations, prices rise sharply.

This early movement suggests Tottenham view Diomande as more than just one option among many. They see him as a priority target.

A Calculated Risk in Tottenham’s New Recruitment Logic

There is no escaping the fact that this remains a high-upside gamble. Diomande is not a finished product. His adaptation to Premier League physicality, his consistency across a full domestic season and his end-product over sustained periods all remain part of his development arc. But Tottenham’s current recruitment direction points toward a greater willingness to embrace that type of controlled risk.

Rather than defaulting to ageing, short-term solutions on inflated wages, Spurs are leaning into assets with elite growth potential and long-term resale value. Diomande fits that model exactly. Leipzig’s reputation as one of Europe’s most reliable development clubs also plays heavily into that confidence. Players rarely leave Leipzig tactically naïve or physically underprepared.

For Frank, this is not just about what Diomande can do today, but what he could become within a year of working inside his structure. A winger who already thrives in chaos becomes significantly more dangerous when that chaos is organised.

How Diomande Changes Tottenham’s Attack

Tottenham’s evolution under Frank is expected to centre on speed of execution rather than sheer volume of possession. Diomande’s presence would naturally tilt Spurs further in that direction. His ability to attack recovery defenders instantly would give Spurs a constant outlet on the break, while his willingness to commit multiple defenders would open central corridors for runners from midfield.

This is especially important for a Spurs side that has often struggled to turn territorial dominance into clear-cut chances. Diomande creates problems before defensive shape can fully reset. That ability is priceless in the Premier League, where low blocks and compact structures dominate the weekly tactical landscape.

Frank’s football thrives on moments of instability. Diomande lives inside those moments.

Barcelona Interest Raises the Stakes

Barcelona’s exploratory interest adds a new layer to the situation. While their involvement remains informal at this stage, their presence alone validates the trajectory Diomande is on. Once clubs of that stature escalate from monitoring to movement, the entire landscape changes.

Tottenham understand that dynamic. Move early and the deal remains manageable. Wait too long and both valuation and competition intensify rapidly. Player preference becomes harder to control, and negotiation leverage shifts sharply toward selling clubs and agents.

This is why Spurs’ acceleration now makes strategic sense rather than feeling rushed.

Verdict: This Is a Frank Signing Through and Through

Yan Diomande is not a marketing signing. He is a system signing. Everything about his profile aligns with the football Thomas Frank wants to build at Tottenham: aggressive in transition, fearless in wide areas, and relentless in forcing defensive errors.

Advanced talks do not guarantee a deal, and Leipzig will not sell cheaply. But Tottenham’s early movement shows this is a deliberate pursuit rooted in tactical planning rather than reactionary hype.

If Spurs land Diomande, it will say far more about their future identity than their present ambitions. It would be a statement that Tottenham under Frank intend to be faster, more vertical and far more dangerous when games break open.

Tottenham are ready to splash the cash in order to strengthen their side in the January transfer window.

After a torrid season under Ange Postecoglou in which Spurs finished 17th in the Premier League and won the Europa League, the north London side have struggled again this time around with the club sitting in the bottom half of the table.

As a result, Thomas Frank is already feeling the heat as head coach and will be keen to work closely with Fabio Paratici in January in order to ensure that the squad has everything they need in order to challenge at the top end of the table.

Tottenham Ready For Conor Gallagher Move

Tottenham's need for reinforcements could see them move for a familiar face in the centre of midfield.

According to Fichajes, Spurs are ready to stump up in order to sign Conor Gallagher next month. Atletico Madrid are hoping for around £50million to sell the English star. Everton and Newcastle United are also keen, however it's the Lilywhites who are leading the chase and are ready to meet the Spanish giant's asking price.

Gallagher is keen to play regular first team football in the hope of earning a spot in England's World Cup 2026 squad, while a move away could free up space on Atletico's wage bill to recruit elsewhere, with Gallagher earning £200,000 a week.

Gallagher Would Be Perfect For Spurs

While Tottenham are in desperate need of attacking reinforcements with Antoine Semenyo top of their list, a top-quality midfielder would also be a huge boost for them.

One of the biggest criticism of Spurs this term has been the lack of energy and dynamism in the middle of the park. Gallagher would certainly solve that.

Scoring 10 and creating 10 in 95 appearances for Chelsea, Gallagher moved to Atletico and was instantly loved by Diego Simeone for his tenacity in midfield. In 70 appearances, he has scored six goals and provided six assists in that time.

A true box-to-box player, the 25-year-old would be a massive signing for Frank's side and would add genuine battling qualities to the ranks, while also possessing the technical quality to make his mark as well.

Of course he came through the youth ranks with Chelsea and so it remains to be seen if he'd be open to joining their fierce London rivals, but in terms of a footballing move, it's certainly one which could make a lot of sense all round.

Tottenham could be handed a surprise route to signing Ivan Toney in January through Everton’s reported interest in Richarlison, according to ESPN.

The former Spurs forward has endured a difficult spell since his move away from Goodison Park, and a potential return to Merseyside is now being explored as the January transfer window approaches. While any deal would be complex, the report suggests it could have significant knock-on effects across the Premier League striker market.

Toney, who currently plays for Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli, is understood to be keen on a return to England, and his situation is closely linked to Richarlison’s future. With Tottenham also monitoring their attacking options ahead of the winter window, this developing storyline could yet become one of the most intriguing transfer chains of January.

Everton interest in Richarlison could unlock Ivan Toney path for Spurs

According to ESPN, Everton are exploring the possibility of re-signing Richarlison, just a short time after his exit from the club. Any move would not be straightforward financially, but Everton believe there could be scope to bring the Brazilian back if conditions align. That interest is significant for Tottenham because it could help facilitate their pursuit of Ivan Toney, who is keen to return to the Premier League from Al Ahli.

Toney’s link to Tottenham is notable due to his previous relationship with Thomas Frank from their time together at Brentford. Frank knows the striker’s qualities better than most, and Spurs are understood to be open to adding a proven goalscorer to their squad if circumstances allow. However, ESPN report that Everton are also considering a direct move for Toney themselves, meaning Spurs could face competition from the very club attempting to sign Richarlison.

Despite receiving a reported £100 million cash injection from their majority owners in October, ESPN state that those funds have been earmarked to strengthen Tottenham’s overall financial position rather than being diverted into a January spending spree. As a result, Spurs’ ability to pursue Toney outright appears limited unless player movement creates room to manoeuvre.

The report also notes that Tottenham do not have a large pool of high-value, easily sellable assets, which only adds to the complexity of any winter business. That reality increases the importance of the Richarlison situation, with his potential exit one of the few obvious ways Spurs could generate flexibility.

Why the Richarlison-Toney link makes sense but remains risky

From an analytical standpoint, the logic behind this potential transfer chain is clear. Tottenham need greater reliability in front of goal, and Toney offers a proven Premier League profile that few available strikers can match. His physicality, finishing and link-up play would give Spurs a different dimension in attack, particularly during periods when injuries limit their options.

At the same time, Richarlison’s possible return to Everton would offer the player a familiar environment where he once thrived and where expectations are different to those at Tottenham. From Everton’s perspective, re-signing a player who understands the club and the pressure of fighting near the bottom of the table could be seen as a relatively safe move.

However, there are significant risks on all sides. For Spurs, committing resources to Toney - described as 'world-class' by Hermann Hreidarsson - without a clear financial pathway would be difficult given the restrictions outlined by ESPN. For Everton, undertaking another major deal for Richarlison would come with obvious financial considerations and questions over whether his form can truly be revived.

For Toney himself, the decision is also far from straightforward. A return to England would put him back under heavy scrutiny, and interest from multiple clubs only complicates his next move.

What happens next for Tottenham, Everton and Toney

As January approaches, movement on Richarlison is now one of the key factors to watch. If Everton formally move to bring him back, it could quickly accelerate developments around Toney’s future. Should that not happen, Spurs’ pursuit of a striker may remain on hold due to the financial limitations outlined by ESPN.

Everton’s potential involvement in a direct move for Toney also adds an extra layer of intrigue, with both clubs possibly competing for the same player. For now, this remains a developing triangle, but any progress on one side is likely to have immediate consequences for the others as the winter window draws closer.

Cristian Romero's auxiliary shift as Tottenham Hotspur's centre-forward is exactly what the doctor ordered for Thomas Frank and company as he scored two goals late on in his side's 2-2 draw with Newcastle United at St James' Park, thus securing a share of the spoils for the travelling north Londoners. And the defender couldn't help but upset the apple cart with his celebration.

Eddie Howe's men – who took the lead through substitute Bruno Guimaraes' well-taken effort in the 71st minute – were largely on top of their opposition, but Romero levelled proceedings just seven minutes after with a lovely, glanced header. Anthony Gordon then regained his side's advantage from the penalty spot with four minutes of regulation time left.

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Tottenham Hotspur have not had a shot on target in the first half of a Premier League game since November 1.

With mere minutes left on the clock and any chance of earning a point slipping away from the visitors, it was Romero who stepped up again. Mathys Tel's delivery was punched up in the air by Aaron Ramsdale and, without letting it bounce, the World Cup winner met it with a spectacular bicycle kick. The away contingent erupted into raptures; Romero wheeled off in celebration.

Romero Sparks Wild Scene With Post-Goal Celebration in Final Moments

While the Spurs supporters were jumping up and down high up in the nosebleeds, Romero was joined by a sea of yellow shirts in front of the downbeat Newcastle supporters, who had just watched three points being swept from underneath them. That was because of an audaciously acrobatic effort from Romero, a man who has no right to pull off such a feat.

Romero, who was signed from Serie A outfit Atalanta in the summer of 2022, has never been afraid to stir the pot – and he seemingly rubbed fellow South American Guimaraes up the wrong way with his post-goal celebration, which sparked wild scenes at the full-time whistle. Why was that the case?

Well, the 47-cap Argentina international – who is widely regarded as one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League right now – produced a strikingly similar celebration to that of Guimaraes. He walked behind the goal, surrounded by his teammates, and placed his hands over his ears before pointing to 'Romero', which is emblazoned on the back of his shirt.

Frustrated at letting their lead slip on two occasions, Newcastle – spearheaded by Guimaraes himself and Joelinton – attempted to engage with Romero once referee Thomas Bramall called time on the dramatic 2-2 draw in the northeast. Briefly, it threatened to spill over into chaos as plenty of pushing and shoving ensued. Cool heads prevailed.

Newcastle's Dan Burn attempted to add more fuel to the fire by coming over all guns blazing, but the less-aggravated members of either side poured cold water on it.

Waxing lyrical about Romero, though, was Thomas Frank's primary post-match focus. Speaking to football.london, he said: "The perfect bicycle kick, hit the shin, aiming for the bottom corner," he said when describing his skipper's outrageous finish. "I think let's start praising Cuti, I think he deserved that for all of the top performance, defending, on the ball, coolness, calmness, duels.

"And then getting up there and scoring two goals. I think the bicycle kick will most likely get a little bit more praise, but I think the header is more exceptional, the way he does that is better than many strikers."

Could This Match Be Thomas Frank's Momentum Shifter?

It would be remiss to ignore the heaps of pressure on Frank's shoulders. The Danish boss – lured away from Brentford, who constantly punched above their weight under his stewardship – hasn't lost the faith of the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium faithful, but he is certainly flirting with the idea as Spurs have dropped from third to 14th in a matter of five weeks.

The level of needle shown on Tuesday night, largely by skipper Romero, is exactly what Frank and his entourage will require in the coming weeks if they are to avoid being sacked.

Could earning a point late on against Newcastle be a turning point for Frank? Their last win came on November 4 against Copenhagen in the Champions League, with that being followed by two draws and three losses – and picking up more victories, either home or away, will be pivotal.

Tottenham's players did little to detract from the criticism they're facing during their latest Premier League defeat.

Spurs were facing Newcastle United on Tuesday night in a contest that was hugely important following their run that has seen them win just once in their last seven games.

Unfortunately for Thomas Frank, that run has got even worse after being held to a 2-2 draw at St James' Park. Bruno Guimaraes gave the hosts the lead before Cristian Romero leveled the game. Anthony Gordon scored from the spot, before Romero netted a bicycle kick to see the game end in a draw.

Brennan Johnson Fails To Impress

Among many poor performances, Brennan Johnson was arguably Tottenham's most disappointing at St James' Park.

With Spurs struggling for attacking inspiration, the stage was set for Johnson to put in a big performance to prove himself as someone capable of leading Frank's side back up the table.

Xavi Simons, Mathys Tel and Richarlison were dropped to the bench, while Dominic Solanke and Dejan Kulusevski are missing through injury, meaning that the opportunity was there.

But Johnson failed to impress, recording no shots and just one chance created. He also had no successful dribbles and completed just 57 per cent of his passes.

Described by one fan as 'dreadful', the Wales star recorded a 4/10 rating in GIVEMESPORT's player ratings against the Magpies.

Tottenham Need To Sign Lethal Attackers

Tottenham are being massively let down by their attacking players. One win in their last eight games in simply not good enough and that is largely down to a lack of offensive options within the group.

Despite having a wealth of attacking talent in the squad, Spurs had to rely on Romero scoring a bra ce in order salvage a draw against Newcastle and that's not good enough.

Frank has too many players who lack consistency in the final third and that's why they're rooted in the bottom half of the table. Thankfully for them, the January window is just around the corner.

Spurs must sign players with a goal threat if they're going to improve their fortunes in the second half of the campaign. Antoine Semenyo is a player who is high up on their list of potential targets and based on this evidence, they need to move heaven and earth to ensure that they get their man.

The match between Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur may have finished 2–2 thanks to Cristian Romero's acrobatic heroics in the 95th minute, but Eddie Howe's men were given the perfect opportunity to pick up three points when they were controversially awarded a penalty ten minutes earlier. Ex-PGMOL Keith Hackett has offered his verdict.

Perhaps a momentum shifter for Thomas Frank and company given the north Londoners last won a match on November 4, Newcastle took control in the 71st minute after Bruno Guimaraes' side-footed effort. Spurs Captain Romero (operating in his role of makeshift centre-forward) then got in front of Dan Burn to level proceedings.

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: During the first half of their last four Premier League matches – against Manchester United, Arsenal, Fulham and Newcastle United – Tottenham Hotspur have had zero shots on target.

Substitute Anthony Gordon then converted from the controversially-awarded spot kick in the 84th minute – and many around the stadium believed that Howe's side would walk away with all three points. That wasn't the case, though, as Romero reacted quickly to Aaron Ramsdale's punch to produce quite a spectacular bicycle kick five minutes into added time.

Keith Hackett Provides Verdict on Controversial Penalty Given in Newcastle 2–2 Spurs

Many fans – from those online to those in attendance – were baffled by referee Thomas Bramall's decision to give the penalty after consulting the pitch side monitor. With the score poised at 1-1, the ball was whipped into Spurs' danger area by Guimaraes, and it was somewhat flicked out for another corner on the opposite side by right-back Pedro Porro.

All the while, Rodrigo Bentancur was adjudged to have manhandled Dan Burn in the box by those manning VAR. Bramall was recommended to have a look himself and, after closer inspection, he pointed to the penalty spot. Bramall said: “After review, Tottenham number 30 makes a holding offence at the back post and clearly does not look at the ball. My final decision is penalty kick.”

Gordon, as mentioned, stepped up to convert – and plenty of those associated with Frank's men were disappointed in the decision, given the common consensus was there was simply not enough deliberate contact to warrant Newcastle the chance to dispatch from 12 yards out, which they did.

Even Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand took to X (formerly Twitter) to suggest the decision was a poor one. "Disgraceful decision to reward Newcastle [with a] penalty. Whoever [is] controlling the VAR should be ashamed and the ref then reviews and should be also. Well done Newcastle."

A fan posted footage of the incident on X alongside the caption: "Another howler from VAR. You can't give this as a penalty. Even Burn is surprised." In response, Hackett claimed that Bentancur was holding the lofty defender and Bramall was correct in his decision to award a penalty.

"Bentancur is holding Dan Burn. Correct decision to award a PK."

Of course, neither Spurs nor Newcastle were able to walk away with a grin on their face due to sharing the spoils – but the visiting side can certainly feel hard done by. Jamie Carragher claimed it was "harsh" on commentary duty for Sky Sports, while Spurs' Kevin Danso called for consistency. "It's tough. It feels like some weeks a ref will give it and some weeks they won't," the 27-year-old Austrian said. "We just have to focus and do exactly what we did today."

Thomas Frank and Eddie Howe Give Own Verdict on Decision

From the footage, Bentancur did appear to have his arms around the 6ft 7in frame of Burn as Guimaraes teased a delivery into the box but, as play developed, the Newcastle defender seemed to continue to run over the Spurs midfield, thus resulting in them falling to a heap on the floor. "It was an absolute mistake from the VAR," said Spurs boss Frank, per BBC Sport.

"The referee did good to do the ref call and they encourage the refereeing call on the pitch. For me, that is never a penalty. Even speaking to some from Newcastle [they] don't think it's a penalty and we need consistency. I think the referee's call on the pitch, he nailed it, and VAR can only be if it's clear and obvious."

Perhaps unexpectedly, Howe believes that Bramall was right to overturn his original decision of no penalty. "I hadn't seen it, I'm only seeing it now," the English manager said when asked about the controversy in his post-match interview. "The big thing is the defender isn't looking at the ball at all, he's looking at Dan [Burn]. I think it's probably the right call."

Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur drew 2-2 in the Premier League on Tuesday evening.

In the first half, not much really happened in terms of goalmouth action and clear-cut chances, but Newcastle were definitely looking the more threatening of the two sides. The hosts were finding success, especially down the wings through Harvey Barnes and Jacob Murphy and were also threatening from long throws and crosses into the box to their big defenders and, of course, Nick Woltemade.

Joelinton and Lewis Miley had the best opportunities of the first half, with the Brazilian hitting the woodwork from a tight angle and the youngster testing Guglielmo Vicario from just inside the box, but Tottenham still carried somewhat of a threat going forward. Although Spurs had several talented attackers such as Mohammed Kudus, Brennan Johnson and Randal Kolo Muani on the pitch, Lucas Bergvall was by far their biggest threat going forward.

The first half came to a close with the sides level at 0-0.

In the 71st minute, the deadlock was finally broken, and it was broken by the hosts. Bruno Guimaraes, who was brought on at half-time, scored the goal, and it was a wonderfully placed finish into the bottom right corner. Anthony Gordon produced some brilliant play down the left wing to get the ball into the box, and Kevin Danso's interception on Nick Woltemade fell straight to the Brazilian, who made no mistake with his finish to make it 1-0.

Newcastle's lead lasted just eight minutes, as Cristian Romero scored a brilliant equaliser for Spurs. Mohammed Kudus put a good cross into the box, and the Argentinian was there to meet it with a fantastic diving header, which was guided right into the bottom corner. Lewis Hall and Daniel Burn could've done more to stop the goal, as Hall could've closed down Kudus better and Burn could've got on the correct side of Romero to stop him from getting contact on the ball.

In the 86th minute, Newcastle regained the lead. Rodrigo Bentancur gave away the controversial penalty after holding Newcastle player Burn in the penalty area, and Anthony Gordon stepped up to successfully convert his penalty past Vicario and put Newcastle in a 2-1 lead.

The dramatic end to the match continued, as in the 95th minute, Spurs equalised to make it 2-2. It was Romero with the goal again, and if you thought his diving header was good, this was even better. The centre-back produced a superb overhead kick, which nestled into the bottom corner, despite not being hit with much power.

Romero's overhead kick was the last action of the match, and the points were shared at St James' Park.

Match Highlights

Newcastle United Player Ratings

GK: Aaron Ramsdale - 5.5/10

Hardly had a single thing to do all evening until the goals. Spurs only managed two shots on target, so Ramsdale will be disappointed to let in two, espeically the second.

RB: Valentino Livramento - 7.5/10

Saw plenty of the ball and was very efficient in possession. Livramento was also defensively sound whilst managing to remain a threat going forward.

CB: Malick Thiaw - 7.5/10

Saw more of the ball than any other player on the pitch. Thiaw didn't put a foot wrong when playing the ball out from the back and was never really defensively challenged.

CB: Daniel Burn - 6.5/10

The big defender won pretty much everything in the air and headed lots of crosses away, but he seemed to struggle against the pace and power of Kolo Muani at times. Burn also got caught on the wrong side of Romero when he scored his headed goal to equalise for Spurs.

LB: Lewis Hall - 6.5/10

Played with plenty of energy up and down the right flank, but could've done better for Spurs' equalising goal, as he didn't even attempt to close down Kudus.

CM: Sandro Tonali - 7/10

Put in a pretty good first-half performance, but was substituted at half-time. The Italian not only worked hard and pressed well but also had several moments of quality, especially with his passing, which sometimes left the opposition's midfield struggling.

CM: Joelinton - 6.5/10

Worked hard in midfield, but didn't really do much in possession.

CM: Lewis Miley - 7/10

Had a good opportunity to score in the first half but squandered it. The youngster worked his socks off and showed real quality when in possession.

RW: Jacob Murphy - 6/10

Didn't really contribute anything to the match outside of his energy and work rate. Murphy only ever really put crosses into the box, which became quite easy for Spurs to defend against.

ST: Nick Woltemade - 7/10

Had a really poor first half, but redeemed himself in the second. The big striker looked very immobile in the first half, but he majorly improved in the second with his hold-up and link-up play.

LW: Harvey Barnes - 6/10

Had a promising first half showing where he had several bright moments down the left wing, but was almost anonymous in the second half as Porro seemed to suss him out.

SUB: Bruno Guimaraes - 8.5/10

Completely changed the game for Newcastle. Guimaraes not only scored a fantastic goal, but he fought hard and had plenty of moments of quality in the final third.

SUB: Anthony Gordon - 8.5/10

Had parts to play in both of Newcastle's goals, converting the second and producing some brilliant wing play to create the first.

SUB: Anthony Elanga - N/A

Didn't do much after coming on.

SUB: Fabian Schar - N/A

Didn't do much after coming on.

Tottenham Hotspur Player Ratings

GK: Guglielmo Vicario - 6.5/10

Made a few important saves during the match to keep the scoreline low, and couldn't have really done anything to stop Newcastle's goals.

RB: Pedro Porro - 7.5/10

Defensively dealt with Barnes very well and was also a threat in the final third, especially with his crossing and balls into the box.

CB: Cristian Romero - 9.5/10 (Man of the Match)

The most important player on the pitch. Not only did Romero keep Woltemade pretty quiet throughout the match, he also scored a phenomenal brace, netting a diving header and an overhead kick.

CB: Kevin Danso - 7/10

Like Romero, Danso also did very well up against Woltemade, but was arguably partially at fault for Guimaraes' goal, as he cleared the ball right to him.

LB: Destiny Udogie - 6.5/10

Put in a defensively solid performance up against Murphy, but didn't really offer anything going forward.

CM: Rodrigo Bentancur - 4.5/10

Although it was harsh, the Uruguayan gave away a penalty for his side. As for being in possession, Bentancur was quite sloppy and didn't take many risks despite his side chasing the match for most of it.

CM: Pape Sarr - 6.5/10

Played with a lot of energy, but was quite sloppy in possession and struggled to deal with the quality in Newcastle's midfield at times.

CM: Lucas Bergvall - 8/10

A shining light for Spurs. Although his side really struggled to produce anything going forward, Bergvall always tried to make things happen when he got on the ball. The youngster played with plenty of energy and had some very tidy moments where he made bursting runs to get Spurs up the pitch.

RW: Mohammed Kudus - 7.5/10

Did very well up against Hall. Kudus didn't see that much of the ball in wide areas, but when he did, he was good in one-on-one situations and provided a really good assist for Romero's goal.

ST: Randal Kolo Muani - 7.5/10

The Frenchman may not have had a single shot on goal during the match, but his all-around performance was actually very good. Kolo Muani caused the Newcastle defence plenty of problems with his pace and power going forward and was a real handful to deal with.

LW: Brennan Johnson - 4/10

An evening to forget for the Welshman. Johnson didn't really have a single ounce of success in the final third and had some moments where he was really sloppy and wasteful in possession of the ball.

SUB: Mathys Tel - N/A

Didn't do much after coming on.

SUB: Xavi Simons - N/A

Didn't do much after coming on.

SUB: Richarlison - N/A

Didn't do much after coming on.

SUB: Archie Gray - N/A

Didn't do much after coming on.​​​​​​​

SUB: Wilson Odobert - N/A

Didn't do much after coming on.

Tottenham supporters were left infuriated when Newcastle were awarded a penalty in their 2-2 draw at St James' Park. And the Premier League have now clarified why a spot kick was given.

Bruno Guimaraes had given the hosts the lead in the 71st minute, but Cristian Romero was on hand to tie the game up just minutes later. However, 10 minutes after the equaliser, referee Thomas Bramall was sent to the monitor by VAR, after the video official had spotted Rodrigo Bentancur and Dan Burn tussling during a Newcastle corner.

While the pair did fall to the floor, both players seemingly had a hold of each other. Nevertheless, the official deemed that there was enough contact from Bentancur for a penalty, leaving Tottenham players and fans in disbelief.

Premier League Clarify Newcastle Penalty Decision

The Premier League have since clarified why a penalty was given on their Match Centre account on X. They wrote: "After VAR review, the referee overturned the original decision of no penalty to Newcastle United.

"Referee announcement: “After review, Tottenham number 30 makes a holding offence at the back post and clearly does not look at the ball. My final decision is penalty kick.”"

Despite the referee deciding that it met the threshold for a penalty, there was still bewilderment at the decision. Jamie Carragher labelled it "harsh" while commentating on the game for Sky Sports. And Rio Ferdinand went even further, describing the decision as "disgraceful" on social media.

The former Manchester United defender wrote: "Disgraceful decision to reward #NUFC penalty… whoever controlling the VAR should be ashamed + the ref then reviews and should be also. Well done Newcastle."

Kevin Danso Calls For Consistency After Newcastle 2-2 Tottenham

Newcastle winger Anthony Gordon would go on to score the spot kick and put Eddie Howe's side in front with just minutes to go in the tie. But, fortunately for Tottenham, Romero then levelled proceedings once again.

After Aaron Ramsdale punched a corner high into the air, the Argentine attempted a bicycle kick. Despite not making the cleanest contact with the ball, it bounced its way into the Newcastle net for his second of the night.

Neither side was able to snatch all three points at the death. But Tottenham players might feel hard done by due to Newcastle receiving a controversial penalty. Kevin Danso, speaking after the game, stated that the decision felt "tough" on the visiting side because of the lack of consistency in the Premier League regarding holding during set-pieces.

Tottenham are planning to steal a march in their pursuit of Antoine Semenyo.

The Bournemouth star is set to be a wanted man in the January transfer window as significant attention turns his way from the Premier League and beyond.

Signing a new contract over the summer, Semenyo has gone on to score six goals in 13 appearances this term to put him firmly on the radar of some of football's biggest clubs.

Hailed as a 'world-class' star by teammate Justin Kluivert, the forward could have his pick of the bunch in just a few weeks' time.

Tottenham Plot Semenyo Move

Tottenham are set to intensify their interest in Semenyo next month, according to Sky Sports News.

Spurs, who were put off by Bournemouth's £70million+ valuation over the summer, are reportedly ready to trigger the new release clause in his Bournemouth contract. That clause is said to be £60million plus £5million in bonuses.

Thomas Frank's side are desperate for a left-sided attacker and have identified Semenyo as the ideal man to step into their side. However, if Spurs think they'll have things all their own way, they'll be sadly mistaken.

Liverpool and Manchester City were also credited with an interest in the 25-year-old just last month, while Arsenal have also kept an eye on his progress. The Gunners are unlikely to make a move though, given the wealth of attacking options at their disposal.

Semenyo Would Be A Perfect Fit For Spurs

Tottenham's interest in Antoine Semenyo is no surprise at all. An injury to Dominic Solanke and the patchy form of Richarlison means that Frank has no proven goalscorer in his team. That's clearly affecting the team's performances.

Spurs are also lacking a top quality left-sided attacker since the decision to allow Son Heung-min to leave the club for the MLS over the summer. It means that the north London side are painfully short in that area.

A deal to sign Semenyo will certainly be expensive, but Spurs have no choice but to pay.

A move to Liverpool or Manchester City may be more appealing for the forward on paper. However, I just can't see him getting sufficient game time at either of those clubs. At Tottenham, however, Semenyo would be the lead man.

That would be the perfect role for the 25-year-old as he moves into the prime years of his career. With the right players around him and the trust of his manager to be a key star, Semenyo could take his career to the next level by moving to Spurs.

Thomas Frank is under real pressure at Tottenham Hotspur.

Spurs are without a win in their last four Premier League matches, with a solitary point coming against Manchester United in that run, with three defeats to London rivals Chelsea, Arsenal and Fulham.

Supporters are turning against the former Brentford manager, with a real disconnect between the team and the fans present. Frank called out the supporters for booing goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario during Saturday's defeat to Fulham at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with Pedro Porro coming out after the game and making a statement of his own, having been spotted getting angry with team-mate Lucas Bergvall after the final whistle.

Frank said: "I didn't like that our fans booed at him [Vicario] straight after and a few times he touched the ball. They can't be true Tottenham fans because everyone supports each other when you are on the pitch.

"And we do everything we can to perform. After, fair enough, boo, no problem. But not during. That's unacceptable in my opinion."

Porro wrote on Instagram: "Football is emotions. In football, as in life, there can always be mistakes. What I will not tolerate is hearing disrespect from the fans to my team-mates, hence my frustration at the end of the game."

Awful record

Defeat to Fulham meant it was just three home wins in the last 21 matches in N17 - a shocking statistic that Frank must turn around, with just one of those wins coming under him - the first game of the season against Burnley.

The reality is that Spurs have stagnated somewhat in the last six years - the Europa League triumph apart.

Since Mauricio Pochettino left the club, Tottenham have finished 6th, 7th, 4th, 8th, 5th and 17th, only qualifying for the Champions League once through the league and luckily through that Europa League triumph last year.

Frank is the fourth permanent manager in that time - the sixth to lead the team after interim periods under Cristian Stellini and Ryan Mason and what Pochettino - now manager of the US national team gearing up for the World Cup - said before he left has been ignored.

Better furniture required

Pochettino had just guided Spurs to fourth in the Premier League and the final of the Champions League, but those finishes did mask a slow downturn in performances from a team that had been together and gelled and excelled together over a period of five or so years.

Pochettino warned things would have to change and that it would be painful.

Speaking in 2019 he said: "When you talk about Tottenham, everyone says you have an amazing house but you need to put in the furniture.

“If you want to have a lovely house maybe you need better furniture. And it depends on your budget if you are going to spend money. We need to be respectful with teams like Manchester City or Liverpool who spend a lot of money. We are brave, we are clever, we are creative.

"Now it’s about creating another chapter and to have the clear idea of how we are going to build that new project. We need to rebuild. It’s going to be painful.”

What Tottenham have done since then is rebuild, rebuild and rebuild again under different managers. It has been painful for supporters, that is for sure, but there has not been a proper, focused rebuild of the squad.

Forty-two players have been signed permanently in that time frame, with a further nine joining the club on loan deals. But when those signings are spread across four different head coaches - five if you count that five of those transfers were made for Pochettino - it is not a true rebuild, when a new boss comes in with his own ideas, his own philosophy and perhaps a desire for different players to play a different way.

Trust the process

Spurs have lurched from one manager to the next and have had a squad that has constantly had to be changed and updated as a result. At some point you have to stick with the man at the helm and - for want of a better phrase that has become synonymous with a certain manager who was allowed time to create down the road - trust the process.

Daniel Levy's departure as chairman at the start of this season leaves Vinai Venkatesham and the Lewis family in charge in N17. It feels like a new era behind the scenes and it has already been confirmed that a £100million investment has been made that will help when it comes to the January transfer window.

That message of a painful rebuild has been completely ignored and whether it is Frank who is given the time and space to really make it stick, or another person at some point this season or next summer - Pochettino may be back on the market then after the World Cup has ended - who knows, but whatever happens, Tottenham need to get their next big decision right.

The supporters demand it.