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Transfer news LIVE: Rogers makes Arsenal FC decision; Man Utd £65m bid; Chelsea, Liverpool latest

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Transfer news LIVE: Rogers makes Arsenal decision; Man Utd £65m bid; Chelsea, Liverpool latest

Follow all the latest summer window news, rumours and gossip

Ronan Sullivan

Transfer news LIVE!

Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United have run out of time to get business done before the World Cup begins this evening, though they are all working hard behind the scenes with the summer transfer window fast approaching. The Premier League champions, Arsenal, hold an interest in Morgan Rogers, Eli Junior Kroupi and Sandro Tonali, are in talks for wonderkid Jeremy Monga and have been linked with a stunning swoop for Vinicius Junior as well as Nico Williams.

North London rivals Tottenham have wrapped up a deal for Marcos Senesi after landing Andy Robertson, while they continue their pursuit of Savinho and Jan Paul van Hecke. Chelsea, meanwhile, confirmed the release of four players on Wednesday as attentions shift towards some incomings for new manager Xabi Alonso to work with. Dusan Vlahovic and Dean Henderson have been linked with moves to Stamford Bridge and there is a fresh development regarding Marcus Rashford.

Elliot Anderson is the subject of a fresh offer from Manchester City, leaving Manchester United to look at midfield alternatives and they have been quoted a price for Adam Wharton and Mateus Fernandes. Real Madrid have seen a huge £130m bid for Arsenal target Julian Alvarez rejected, while Liverpool have made an approach for RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande. Follow the latest transfer news, gossip and rumours live below!

Latest summer transfer news and rumours

Arbeloa in talks with Fulham

Former Real Madrid manager and World-Cup winning defender Alvaro Arbeloa has held talks about the vacant managerial role at Fulham, as per David Ornstein.

After Marco Silva joined Benfica - replacing incoming Madrid boss Jose Mourinho - the West London side are interested in taking the Spaniard to Craven Cottage.

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Frimpong to Chelsea?

Chelsea have been tipped to reunite Jeremie Frimpong with Xabi Alonso this summer as Marc Cucurella eyes the exit door.

Frimpong shone under Alonso in Bayer Leverkusen’s historic double-winning season before making a £29.5 million move to Anfield, but Gaizka Mendieta reckons it would make sense for Chelsea to bring him back together with his former head coach.

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Anderson highlights

Is Elliot Anderson worth the fee being mooted?

He is coming off a very impressive season with Nottingham Forest, particularly in the Europa League.

Arsenal back in for Williams

Arsenal are hopeful of finally completing a deal for Athletic Club winger Nico Williams.

The last two summer transfer windows have seen the Spain international linked with a move to the Emirates, and TEAMtalk claim he is still viewed as one of the club’s attacking targets.

There is one potential sticking point though, Williams committed his future to Athletic Club by signing a new ten-year contract last summer.

However, the report states that Williams would be open to testing himself in the Premier League should the right opportunity arise.

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ICYMI: Tottenham sign Marcos Senesi

Tottenham have officially confirmed the signing of Marcos Senesi.

The Argentine defender has joined Spurs on a free transfer following his departure from Bournemouth at the end of his contract.

Senesi has signed a long-term deal in north London and will arrive at Tottenham on July 1.

"It's a very special feeling to be a Tottenham Hotspur player,” Senesi said.

"From the first moment, the club has shown why they want me and how much they want me to be a part of what they are building.

“It's exciting and something I can't wait to be involved in.

"Every time I step on the pitch, I will do my best to make the fans proud and to take the club back to the place it belongs.

“I want to win things with Tottenham and will do everything I can to make that happen."

Man Utd target two midfielders

Manchester United are admirers of Elliot Anderson, but will not enter a bidding war with rivals Manchester United for the Nottingham Forest midfielder's signature.

Instead, the Athletic claim United are focused on candidates like Mateus Fernandes and Alex Scott of West Ham and Bournemouth respectively.

Standard Sport understands the Hammers have set an asking price of £80million for Fernandes as they are expecting to lose the Portugal international following their relegation from the Premier League.

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Vinicius makes decision amid Arsenal links

Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior has decided he will remain at the Santiago Bernabeu at least until the end of next season.

The Brazilian’s future has been called into question ever since talks over a new deal stalled last November.

Vinicius' contract is set to expire next summer and there has been tentative links with a move to Arsenal as Mikel Arteta seeks to bolster his attacking options.

However, AS report Vinicius Jr will ‘definitely’ be a Real Madrid player next season, potentially leaving on a free transfer in July 2027.

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Man City see Anderson bid rejected

Manchester City have had an offer for Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson rejected.

According to The Athletic, the bid was £106m with potential add-ons taking the deal to in excess of £120m.

However, Forest reportedly want the fixed fee for Anderson to eclipse the £125m British record Liverpool paid Newcastle United for Alexander Isak last summer.

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Tottenham confirm Marcos Senesi squad number

Marcos Senesi will wear the No5 shirt at Tottenham that has most recently been held by the likes of Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Jan Vertonghen.

“Marcos' experience, quality on the ball, and competitive edge will strengthen us defensively, as well as giving us flexibility in formation,” said Spurs head coach Roberto De Zerbi.

“He's comfortable playing in a possession-based team, reads the game very well and has the personality to thrive in a demanding environment.

“I also love his mentality and desire to keep improving and I'm looking forward to working with him and seeing the big contribution he can make to the team.”

Done deal! Tottenham sign Marcos Senesi

Tottenham have now officially confirmed the signing of Marcos Senesi.

The Argentine defender has joined Spurs on a free transfer following his departure from Bournemouth at the end of his contract.

Senesi has signed a long-term deal in north London and will arrive at Tottenham on July 1.

"It's a very special feeling to be a Tottenham Hotspur player,” Senesi said.

"From the first moment, the club has shown why they want me and how much they want me to be a part of what they are building.

“It's exciting and something I can't wait to be involved in.

"Every time I step on the pitch, I will do my best to make the fans proud and to take the club back to the place it belongs.

“I want to win things with Tottenham and will do everything I can to make that happen."

Transfer news LIVE: Rogers responds to Arsenal FC; Man Utd learn Rashford decision; Chelsea, Liverpool latest

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Sport | Football

Transfer news LIVE: Rogers responds to Arsenal; Man Utd learn Rashford decision; Chelsea, Liverpool latest

Follow all the latest summer window news, rumours and gossip

George Flood, Senior Sport Editor @ GeorgeFlood24

Transfer news LIVE!

The summer window is fast approaching as Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham all look to get transfer business complete before the World Cup begins this week. Arsenal have their eyes on Bournemouth striker Eli Junior Kroupi, who took the Premier League by storm in his debut season. The Gunners also hold interest in Sandro Tonali, while talks continue for wonderkid Jeremy Monga.

Chelsea are eyeing new recruits before Xabi Alonso arrives as their next head coach in July. They have been linked with a move for striker Dusan Vlahovic and goalkeeper Dean Henderson. Manchester United have been quoted a price for Adam Wharton, while Elliot Anderson favours a switch to Manchester City. Tottenham have wrapped up a deal for Marcos Senesi after landing Andy Robertson, while they continue their pursuit of Savinho and Jan Paul van Hecke.

Real Madrid have seen a huge £130m bid for Arsenal target Julian Alvarez rejected, while Liverpool have made an approach for RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande. Follow the latest transfer news, rumours and gossip live below!

Latest summer transfer news and rumours

Tottenham confirm Marcos Senesi squad number

Marcos Senesi will wear the No5 shirt at Tottenham that has most recently been held by the likes of Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Jan Vertonghen.

“Marcos' experience, quality on the ball, and competitive edge will strengthen us defensively, as well as giving us flexibility in formation,” said Spurs head coach Roberto De Zerbi.

“He's comfortable playing in a possession-based team, reads the game very well and has the personality to thrive in a demanding environment.

“I also love his mentality and desire to keep improving and I'm looking forward to working with him and seeing the big contribution he can make to the team.”

Done deal! Tottenham sign Marcos Senesi

Tottenham have now officially confirmed the signing of Marcos Senesi.

The Argentine defender has joined Spurs on a free transfer following his departure from Bournemouth at the end of his contract.

Senesi has signed a long-term deal in north London and will arrive at Tottenham on July 1.

"It's a very special feeling to be a Tottenham Hotspur player,” Senesi said.

"From the first moment, the club has shown why they want me and how much they want me to be a part of what they are building.

“It's exciting and something I can't wait to be involved in.

"Every time I step on the pitch, I will do my best to make the fans proud and to take the club back to the place it belongs.

“I want to win things with Tottenham and will do everything I can to make that happen."

£15m Everton bid for Middlesbrough starlet rejected

Everton have had a £15m bid for Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney rejected, according to the Daily Mail.

Boro are seeking at least £20m for the Championship Player of the Season, who Crystal Palace also retain an interest in.

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Sancho released by Man Utd

Manchester United have confirmed the release of six players, including £73m signing Jadon Sancho.

Sancho - who signed in the summer of 2021 under Ole Gunnar Solksjaer - was loaned to Aston Villa this season, but will now depart the Red Devils on a free transfer after his contract expired.

The other players released include Casemiro and Tyrell Malacia, alongside development players Sonny Aljofree, Dermot Mee and Malachi Sharpe.

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Spurs interest in Serie A right-back amid Porro rumours

Tottenham are interested in Atalanta right-back Raoul Bellanova amid interest in Pedro Porro from Real Madrid, according to Italian press reports.

Bellanova, 26, only made 15 Serie A starts for the Bergamo side last season, but retains interest from other Premier League clubs, including Nottingham Forest and Fulham.

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Man Utd consider Fernandes deal

Manchester United are interested in West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes, according to Sky Sports.

The Red Devils are evaluating a move, but are currently unlikely to match the Hammers’ reported £80m evaluation.

Getty

Martinez agrees personal terms with Juventus

Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has agreed personal terms with Juventus, according to reports from Italy.

Martinez, 33, could sign a three-year contract with the Old Lady and has agreed to a significant pay cut from his Villa salary. The two clubs are yet to agree on a fee, but Villa may ask for £15m for the Argentina number one.

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Van Hecke agrees terms with Spurs

Brighton defender has agreed personal terms with Tottenham despite interest from Liverpool and Chelsea, per reports in the Dutch press.

The north London side are his preferred destination, with Brighton already rejecting two bids from the Lilywhites.

The Seagulls are looking for a fee nearer to £70m for the Dutch defender.

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Disasi returns to Chelsea after West Ham loan

West Ham have confirmed defender Axel Disasi is returning to parent club Chelsea after the conclusion of his six-month loan deal.

Disasi will hope for a fresh start at Chelsea under incoming manager Xabi Alonso, after being exiled under former Blues boss Enzo Maresca.

Also departing are development squad players Michael Forbes, Junior Robinson, Tyron Akpata, Daniel Rigge, David Chigwada and Tom Wooster.

Getty

CONFIRMED: Traore leaves West Ham

West Ham have confirmed Adama Traore will leave the club at the conclusion of his contract on June 30.

The winger is a long-time disciple of Nuno Espirito Santo and joined West Ham from Fulham in January.

He had been expected to stay with the club after they were relegated to the Championship, but his departure has now been confirmed, with one assist and no goals scored in 12 appearances.

Veteran shot-stopper Lukasz Fabianski will also depart, having spent eight years with the club.

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Why Tottenham signed Marcos Senesi revealed as squad number and start date confirmed

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The Argentine centre-back will join Spurs on a free transfer on July 1, following the expiration of his contract with Premier League rivals Bournemouth.

Senesi has penned a long-term deal in north London and becomes their second signing of the summer already, with fellow defender Andy Robertson also set to arrive next month for nothing after he departs Liverpool.

The 29-year-old has been handed the No5 shirt at Spurs that has been vacant since midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg’s permanent departure for Marseille last year and was previously worn by the likes of Jan Vertonghen.

“From the first moment, the club has shown why they want me and how much they want me to be a part of what they are building. It's exciting and something I can't wait to be involved in.

“Every time I step on the pitch, I will do my best to make the fans proud and to take the club back to the place it belongs. I want to win things with Tottenham and will do everything I can to make that happen.”

Senesi joined Bournemouth from Dutch giants Feyenoord in 2022 and went on to make 128 appearances across all competitions, forming a key part of the team that finished sixth in the Premier League this season and secured Europa League qualification under now Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola.

However, he rejected multiple contract offers to extend his stay at the Vitality Stadium and had been linked with the likes of Chelsea and Liverpool in recent months, ahead of Spurs making their move early as they look to avoid a repeat of a near-disastrous brush with relegation.

Senesi has earned three senior international caps for Argentina but is not in their squad for this summer’s World Cup. His arrival comes amid ongoing uncertainty over the Spurs future of compatriot and captain Cristian Romero.

“Marcos' experience, quality on the ball, and competitive edge will strengthen us defensively, as well as giving us flexibility in formation,” explained Tottenham head coach Roberto De Zerbi.

“He's comfortable playing in a possession-based team, reads the game very well and has the personality to thrive in a demanding environment.

“I also love his mentality and desire to keep improving and I'm looking forward to working with him and seeing the big contribution he can make to the team.”

Offering further insight into why Senesi was targeted, Tottenham sporting director Johan Lange added: “Marcos is a defender who brings a combination of quality, intelligence and leadership to our squad.

“His experience at the highest level, his composure in possession and his desire to compete for every ball make him an excellent fit for the way we want to play.

“We are delighted to welcome him to the club and believe this is the perfect place for him as he enters a great stage in his career.”

Savinho: Tottenham talks over £60m move continue as Man City winger seeks assurances

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Savinho is seeking more first-team football next season as talks continue over a move to Tottenham.

Standard Sport reported last month that Spurs were back in for the Manchester City winger, who was a serious target last summer under former head coach Thomas Frank but an agreement over a fee could not be reached.

Spurs have revived their interest, and it is expected that the fee in the region of £60million would be required if the move materialises. Any deal would include add-ons and bonuses.

The Brazilian signed a new contract at City in October, which runs though to summer 2031.

City last summer stood firm on their £70m valuation last summer, a figure Spurs baulked at, as they planned to reinvest that money by signing a replacement. Instead, the Spurs talks broke down, Savinho stayed put, and City signed Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo in January for £65m.

Semenyo, Rayan Cherki and Jeremy Doku all enjoyed fine form in the second half of the season, further hampering Savinho’s chances of earning the level of game time he wanted.

Playing more regularly is the winger's priority as he weighs up his options for next season.

While it is understood that he wishes to leave City in order to play more, the expected arrival of manager Enzo Maresca as Pep Guardiola’s replacement brings an added unknown.

It remains unclear how highly Maresca rates Savinho and if the Brazilian’s place in the first-team pecking order would change.

Ben Davies signs new Tottenham contract as Yves Bissouma leaves on a free

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Longest-serving player extends his stay

Matt Verri

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Your matchday briefing on Tottenham, featuring team news and expert analysis from Sam Tabuteau

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Ben Davies has signed a one-year contract extension at Tottenham.

The 33-year-old's existing deal was set to expire at the end of the month, but an extension has been agreed to take Davies' time in north London to 13 years.

The Welshman will provide cover at centre-back and left-back but it is his leadership that is most valued by Roberto De Zerbi.

Davies made only three Premier League appearances this season, having undergone surgery on a broken ankle in January.

However, he was still a key figure in the dressing room and a vocal presence in trying to steer the club away from relegation.

"Tottenham Hotspur really feels like home," Davies said.

"It's been a huge part of my football journey and I'm grateful for what the club has given me so far in my career. My heart's on my sleeve for this club and I'll give everything for it."

Spurs were heading for relegation until De Zerbi's arrival at the club. The Italian led Spurs to 11 points from his seven matches in charge as they just about avoided the drop.

Davies did not feature in any of those squads due to injury but he attended almost every team meeting and match and saw just how big an influence De Zerbi had.

"He lifted us, he lifted the fans, he lifted the club," Davies said.

"Having his presence, his confidence, and we can feel a lot of relief having got over the line we did. The job he did is amazing but I'm excited to see what he brings in the future to this club.

"He's incredibly passionate to the smallest details. It's honestly a pleasure to watch."

The Welshman also hailed the role the Spurs supporters played as he looks to play his part in ensuring next season is a less torturous experience for them.

"What they gave us towards the end of the season was incredible - a huge, huge lift. I think it really brought us closer as a group," Davies said.

"Sometimes in the tough times you see what people are about. I think the fans really stood up, stuck by us. That's what true fandom is, right? Hard times, good times, we stick together.

"Hopefully we have a better year next year."

Departing: Yves Bissouma

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As Davies extends his stay at Spurs, Yves Bissouma is set to leave upon the expiry of his contract on June 30.

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Transfer news LIVE: Arsenal learn Kroupi fee; Rogers latest

Man Utd make Romero transfer decision amid Tottenham uncertainty

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Bissouma joined from Brighton in 2022 in a deal worth £25million, and went on to make 111 appearances in all competitions.

The midfielder saw first-team opportunities restricted last season under Thomas Frank due to disciplinary reasons, but enjoyed more exposure during Spurs’ successful battle against relegation under new manager Roberto De Zerbi.

Also departing the club is Matthew Craig, who made his first-team debut against Leeds on the final day of the 2022-23 Premier League season, and went on to spend time on loan at Doncaster, Barnsley and Mansfield Town.

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Manchester United 'make Cristian Romero transfer decision' amid Tottenham uncertainty

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Manchester United are not expected to make a move for Tottenham captain Cristian Romero this summer despite reports on the contrary.

The centre-back's future in north London has been uncertain for some time, first being open to leaving the club last summer amid interest from Atletico Madrid.

The Spanish giants were expected to compete for his signature again this summer, but are now reportedly facing stiff competition from Man United.

Argentine journalist Gaston Edul, who is said to have close ties to Romero, reported on Monday evening that United were "preparing an offer" for the Spurs skipper.

But Press Association and BBC Sport report that Romero is not a target for Michael Carrick this summer.

It remains to be seen if Spurs will entertain selling their captain this summer.

Romero has been a vocal critic of the club hierarchy during two years of underachievement, which has seen Spurs finish 17th in back-to-back Premier League campaigns.

The World Cup winner almost missed the club’s final-day relegation-decider, having instead said to have prioritised the final of the Argentine Championship between boyhood club Belgrano and River Plate.

Romero was promoted by Belgrano on their social media channels in the days leading up to the biggest game in Spurs’ modern history, videoed carrying footballs at the club’s training ground, but was in attendance in north London days later as the club avoided relegation on the final day of the season.

Spurs have been busy strengthening their defence already this summer, with centre-back pair Marcos Senesi and Jan Paul van Hecke both targets.

Senesi is expected to join from Bournemouth on a free transfer, while a third bid for Van Hecke will be submitted after Brighton last week rejected Spurs' first two.

Van Hecke is reportedly keen to be reunited with De Zerbi, after the pair's time together at the Seagulls.

Spurs also have highly rated teenage star Luka Vuskovic set to return from a loan spell with Hamburg, where his form saw him named in the Bundesliga team of the season.

It is felt that Vuskovic, who will play in this summer’s World Cup, is ready to come in and challenge for minutes at Spurs next season.

Harry Redknapp exclusive: 'Roberto De Zerbi must rebuild Tottenham around this player'

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Ahead of a huge summer rebuild, the former Spurs manager has some advice for the current boss

Your matchday briefing on Tottenham, featuring team news and expert analysis from Sam Tabuteau

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Harry Redknapp has told Roberto De Zerbi how to get Tottenham back on top again after a disaster season which saw Spurs avoid relegation on the final day.

A 1-0 win over Everton saw Spurs secured a 17th-place finish for the second season on the spin.

Spurs’ dismal league campaign the year prior was offset somewhat the historic Europa League triumph, but there was nowhere for the club to hide 12 months on.

Thomas Frank was sacked in February before the disaster appointment of Igor Tudor sent Spurs spiraling into the relegation zone, before De Zerbi - and West Ham’s own miserable form - saw the club cling on to their Premier League status.

Redknapp took over Spurs in 2008 with the club in the relegation zone - having picked up just two points from their opening eight games - and guided them to the League Cup final, and then into the Champions League during his four seasons in charge.

The veteran manager did not come by any silverware during his in N17, but would he ever have let things get so bleak?

“I don’t know, hopefully not!” Redknapp told Standard Sport.

“When I was there, [Mauricio] Pochettino was there, you would never have imagined us finishing 17th two years running, that’s for sure. It’s been a bit of a disaster really hasn’t it?”

Asked to identify the cause of Spurs’ tailspin, he cited poor player recruitment and the managerial merry-go-round - but backed De Zerbi to restore the side to Europe.

Redknapp continued: “I think the new manager has sorted it out. I think Tottenham next year, for sure they’ll be a top-six team.

“De Zerbi, I like him. He did a great job at Brighton. All the people I talk to who have played for him like him and respect him. I think he’ll do well, I think next year they’ll be up there.”

Tottenham have moved quickly in the summer transfer market, picking up ex-Liverpool full-back Andy Robertson on a free transfer, and are said to be working on deals for centre-back pair Marcos Senesi and Jan Paul van Hecke.

Archie Gray has been a rare positive for Spurs

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But as De Zerbi faces up to a thorough squad rebuild, Redknapp hopes Archie Gray will feature prominently in his plans.

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The highly rated 20-year-old, signed from Leeds in 2024, was one of the club’s most consistent performers during a tumultuous campaign, and won all three of the club’s end-of-season, player of the year awards, which are voted on by fans.

And Redknapp tipped him for the captaincy should Cristian Romero depart this summer.

“I think Archie Gray would be one of the people that you look to build your team around,” he said.

“He looks a fantastic young pro, good player, and over the last two years, he’s probably been their best player, I think.

“He is, I assume, a captain of the club in the not-too-distant future. Even next year, if I was there, I wouldn’t hesitate to make him captain, even though he’s only a young kid.

“He could be like Ray Wilkins, who became captain of Chelsea when he was very young. He’s good enough to do that.”

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Toby Alderweireld exclusive: 'Luka Vuskovic can be a Tottenham great, he reminds me of Jan Vertonghen'

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Much is expected of the young centre-back, who was signed nearly three years ago but is yet to play a competitive game for the club having been sent out on loan. Vuskovic, who has four years to on his contract, has most recently enjoyed a hugely beneficial loan spell at Hamburg, who saw him named in the Bundesliga’s team of the season.

Such form has reportedly prompted interest from across Europe, to throw Vuskovic’s future at Spurs into doubt. The player himself has made no secret of his desire to remain on loan at Hamburg so he can player with his brother, whose doping ban end in November.

Alderweireld, who was one of the Premier League’s best defenders during his six years in north London, is among Vuskovic’s admirers, and tipped him to emulate his former team-mate Vertonghen.

”I played against Luka Vuskovic in Belgium when he played for Westerlo. I think he's physically very strong for his age, so that's a positive. He will only get stronger and stronger. I didn't see a lot of games from him, but of course, if you're in the team of the year playing for Hamburg, it means you're doing well.

“Maybe he can do the pre-season [with Spurs] and show his qualities. But he's young, so if it's not this season, in the future he will definitely get a good chance to prove himself, get a regular start in the first team.

“He will get the opportunity, of course, it's up to him to take the chances or not, but he has everything to become an unbelievable centre-back. He’s strong, quick, good with his feet, even in the attacking box of the opponent, he can win some headers, score some goals, he's a very all-round complete defender.”

Alderweireld added: “He's more than just a defender. He scores all of the goals, and he's good with passing as well ... he's not a typical defender, not only a no-nonsense defender. He has a lot more qualities about him. [I would compare him to] Jan Vertonghen. He's also good with things other than only defending with his head.”

Toby Alderweireld was speaking exclusively to the London Standard in association with BOYLE Sports 2 Goals Ahead. The early payout offer allows fans to back a team and if they go 2 goals up at any point during a 90 minute match (e.g 2-0, 3-1, 4-2), BOYLE Sports will immediately settle as a winning bet, no matter the final result. Go to BOYLE Sports for more.

Tottenham see second bid for Paul Jan van Hecke rejected by Brighton

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Spurs are keen to sign the Dutch centre-back this summer, having already wrapped up a Bosman signing of Marcos Senesi from Bournemouth, amid uncertainty over the future of captain Cristian Romero.

Van Hecke is expected to leave Brighton this summer with just one year left to run on his contract, and Brighton chief executive Paul Barber has confirmed that Spurs are not the only interested team. Liverpool and Newcastle have also been linked.

Brighton are reportedly demanding £70million to sell the 25-year-old, with Spurs having first bid around £40m. Another offer from Spurs has now been rejected, with another expected.

Barber told talkSPORT: "There's always going to be a lot of interest in our best players, and certainly in the case of Jan Paul.

"Yes, we have rejected a bid from Tottenham over the last week or so, in fact, two bids. From that point of view, it has to be right for us as well as the player.”

He added: "We have to be in a position to make the best trades to suit our model and also to make sure that we're supporting Fabian [Hurzeler, Brighton manager], because he's got another big season ahead of him.

"He's had two seasons in the Premier League, he's finished eighth on both occasions, this time we've been fortunate enough to qualify for a European competition.

"We want to go as deep in that competition as we can, while also doing well in the Premier League.

"To do that, we need to make sure Fabian's got the best possible squad and we've got the right balance between the young players that typically we like to bring in and develop, and the more experienced players like Pascal Gross and others, who can actually help us progress in all of the competitions that we're in.

"As always, it's a balancing act, and hopefully this summer we can work hard to pull it off again."

“For me, Van Hecke is ready. He's ready to play because he played under De Zerbi and he showed that he can play in the moment, that he's mature, and we need players that are already mature.”