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Thomas Frank responds to Eberechi Eze hijacking: 'I don't want players who don't want to play for Tottenham'

'To make it very clear': Frank hits out over Eze transfer collapse

Thomas Frank responds to Eberechi Eze hijacking: 'I don't want players who don't want to play for Tottenham'

'To make it very clear': Frank hits out over Eze transfer collapse

Dame Helen Mirren and Pierce Brosnan on the red carpet in Leicester Square for Thursday Murder Club premiere

Mirren and Brosnan on red carpet for Thursday Murder Club premiere

Sport | Football

Transfer news LIVE: Arsenal book Eze medical; Liverpool plan Isak bid; Man Utd offered Rabiot; Chelsea latest

A stunning late move has lit up the summer window again

Targets: Morgan Rogers, Alexander Isak and Eberechi Eze

London Standard

Alex Young @ alexwsyoung

Transfer news LIVE!

The summer window has been handed two huge twists as it enters its final stretch. Arsenal re-entered the transfer market after Kai Havertz picked up a knee injury, the severity of which remains unknown, and quickly moved to hijack Tottenham’s move for Eberechi Eze. Spurs had agreed a deal with Crystal Palace and a contract with the player, but the Gunners swooped in at the 11th hour and turned the player’s head. A medical is expected on Friday. Where do Spurs go now? They still like Savinho and have been linked with Morgan Rogers.

In another twist, Liverpool could finally be edging towards signing Alexander Isak with Newcastle set to bid again for Yoane Wissa. Marc Guehi also remains a target for the Premier League champions, but both deals look difficult to complete. Another forward on the move could be Nicolas Jackson, who Newcastle and Aston Villa admire.

Chelsea could use funds from a potential sale of Jackson to finally wrap up deals for Alejandro Garnacho and Xavi Simons, while Christopher Nkunku continues to discuss a move back to RB Leipzig. Manchester United want a new midfielder, and have turned attentions to Eduardo Camavinga and Lucien Agoume. Follow the latest transfer news, gossip and rumours live below!

Latest transfer news headlines

Southgate puzzled by Poland links

Former England boss Sir Gareth Southgate says he is not actively looking at a return to management and was puzzled to see himself linked with the Poland job over the summer.

It is 13 months since the former defender called time on his successful eight-year stint as national team boss in the wake of their Euro 2024 final defeat by Spain in Berlin.

Asked whether he is looking at returning to management or if the future lies in something else, Southgate said: "You can't say never to anything because 15 years ago I left Middlesbrough and I wasn't certain I would manage then.

"Then I ended up on a strange path into managing the national team. But it's not something I'm actively looking at at the moment."

Southgate's sojourn meant eyebrows were raised when speculation emanated from Poland in June that his return to management could be with their national team.

"I am kind of used to it," he said of the rumours about him. "I mean, I was linked with the Poland job, which I knew nothing about, so that was a strange one.

"Something gets written and then it's reported everywhere, but yeah, there's probably a lot of others, but I kind of accept it now for what it is."

Gareth Southgate famously donned a waistcoat during the 2018 World Cup (Owen Humphreys/PA)

PA Wire

Hojlund nears United exit

AC Milan are aiming to finalise the Rasmus Hojlund deal this week, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.

The 22-year-old Danish striker is considered surplus to requirements at Manchester United.

Ruben Amorim left him out of United’s squad for their Premier League opener against Arsenal on Sunday.

The Serie A club is expected to propose a loan deal with an obligation to buy for £35 million, though the purchase clause would only be triggered if certain performance targets are met this season.

Rasmus Hojlund

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Arsenal explore Kai Havertz replacement

Arsenal forward Kai Havertz is set to spend some time on the sidelines with a knee injury, according to David Ornstein.

The 26-year-old was absent from an open training session at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday morning.

The exact extent of his injury remains unclear, leaving the length of his absence uncertain.

Meanwhile, Arsenal are actively exploring the transfer market to bolster their attack and provide cover for Victor Gyokeres.

Kai Havertz

Arsenal FC via Getty Images

Nottingham Forest reach Douglas Luiz agreement

Nottingham Forest have reached an agreement with Juventus for 27-year-old Douglas Luiz.

The Brazilian midfielder will return to England in a €30m deal.

The medical could take place tomorrow, if all goes according to plan

Luiz was eager to make the move back just a year after his £50m transfer to Turin.

His time in Italy proved difficult, as he managed only three starts for the Serie A giants since leaving Aston Villa last summer.

Douglas Luiz

REUTERS

Chelsea confident of double deal

Chelsea remain confident they can sign both Xavi Simons and Alejandro Garnacho, rather than one or the other, writes Dom Smith.

The Blues’ recruitment team have been in direct talks to sign both players for a number of weeks now, and confidence remains high that both deals can eventually be done.

Standard Sport understands Chelsea wish to sign both players this summer and are working on securing player sales, which would accelerate the arrival of RB Leipzig’s Simons and Manchester United’s Garnacho. Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson are two players who will leave if suitable exits can be resolved.

FULL STORY HERE!

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Medical booked

Here is footage of Claudio Echeverri arriving in Germany last night ahead of completing a season-long loan move to Bayer Leverkusen from Manchester City.

The talented teenager is expected to undergo a medical today...

Why has Alexander Isak not handed in a transfer request?

Newcastle striker Alexander Isak has, informally, requested a transfer. However, formally requesting a transfer has some knock-on effects, writes Sam Tabuteau.

It can come in the form of a legal document and would outline a desire to breach the terms of their employment.

In some cases, it means forfeiting significant contractual perks, like signing-on fees and loyalty bonuses.

More on that here!

AFP via Getty Images

Eze involved in Crystal Palace training

Eberechi Eze trained with Crystal Palace on Wednesday as Tottenham attempt to wrap up a deal for the 27-year-old England midfielder, writes Sam Tabuteau.

With Spurs set for a fresh round of talks with Palace, Eze trained with the Palace squad ahead of their Conference League play-off first leg against Fredrikstad.

Palace manager Oliver Glasner is due to confirm whether or not Eze will be involved against Fredrikstad when he holds his pre-match press conference on Wednesday afternoon.

Arsenal have cooled their interest in Eze, paving the way for Spurs to seal a move for their primary transfer target before the end of the window.

FULL STORY!

The FA via Getty Images

Palace agreement

More Crystal Palace news and a significant one at that.

Sky Sports claim the Eagles are closing in on a £32million deal with Leicester for Bilal El Khannouss.

It is understood there is broad agreement on terms, but Palace not yet fully committed to the transfer, as they retain interest in Tyler Dibling.

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New potential Eze replacement target emerges

Crystal Palace are reportedly eyeing up Southampton youngster Tyler Dibling as a potential replacement for Eberechi Eze.

According to talkSPORT, Palace are prepared to enter the race for the teenager who has been subject to interest from several Premier League clubs this summer.

Everton have already seen a bid rejected.

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Tottenham target THREE new signings as they push to wrap up Eze deal

The defender is among the best in the world in his position

Leader: Cristian Romero

AFP via Getty Images

Matt Verri

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Your matchday briefing on Tottenham, featuring team news and expert analysis from Matt Verri

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Thomas Frank did not have to wait long to get one of his big wishes as Tottenham head coach.

On Friday he expressed his desire for Cristian Romero to extend his stay at the club. Three days later, the centre-back put pen to paper on a new four-year deal.

It comes a week on from Romero being named as Spurs' new club captain to replace Heung-min Son, and ends any speculation over his future.

For all the talk of what transfer business Spurs might do in the final weeks of the window, agreeing a new deal with Romero is as major a statement as any signing they will make.

Cristian Romero guided Tottenham to glory last season

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Just a few months ago, the smart money appeared to be on a summer departure. Atletico Madrid were interested in Romero, who had only two years left on his previous contract and did little to inspire confidence that he saw his long-term future in north London.

"LaLiga is the one [league] left to play in. I would love to, to tell you the truth," Romero said in an interview in April. "I would love to play there because it's the league I'm missing."

Having rarely conducted interviews in English in his four years at Spurs, he has now done so twice in a matter of days. There have been accusations that Romero appeared at his most committed when representing Argentina, but the past week has put him front and centre of a new era at Spurs.

"I'm very happy here in the club," Romero said after the contract news was made official. "For me, this club is the best in the world.

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"My message to the fans is thank you for your amazing support every day and every match. For me, and it's important also for the team."

Romero has the strongest case of any Spurs player to being one of the best players in the world in his position.

The responsibility of being vice-captain under Ange Postecoglou brought more consistency and less of the rash, volatile displays that there were too many of earlier in his career.

While those traits can still rear their head, usually in the form of a charge out of defence and a crunching challenge, Romero has a history of rising to the occasion and more of that can be expected as captain.

He has won three major trophies with Argentina. Wearing the captain's armband in May, Romero was named player of the match as he led Spurs to victory in the Europa League final.

Cristian Romero is among the best defenders in the world

Adam Davy/PA Wire

The UEFA Super Cup last week was a rare final defeat, but Romero was still a rock in defence and scored his side's second goal.

That mentality of delivering on the biggest stage is a crucial trait and one this young Spurs squad did not have much of before winning the Europa League.

With Romero here to stay, the chances of a repeat of that night in Bilbao have certainly gone up.

"I love football, I love this club," Romero said.

"After winning the Europa League, it's like a special season now. In football, sometimes there are good moments, bad moments. The most important thing for me is to stay all together.

"We want to win. Maybe, why not again this season? Another trophy with the club is important for everyone."

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Cristian Romero hopes to win more silverware with Tottenham after he agreed a new contract.

Despite having two years remaining on his previous contract, the Argentine signed a fresh four-year deal on Monday. It compounds a positive week for the player, who was named club captain last week.

Romero made seven appearances in Tottenham’s Europa League-winning campaign last season, donning the captain’s armband in the final, and feels there is no reason Spurs won’t be able to replicate the feat.

“After winning the Europa League, it is like a special season now,” he explained.

“We want to win. Why not win again this season?

He continued, saying he was honoured to have been named captain. Accompanied by his young son, he led Spurs out at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday as they opened their Premier League campaign with a routine 3-0 win over Burnley.

“The last two weeks, first captain, and now sign the contract with the club. For me it is a fantastic decision.

“First time as captain, it was incredible for me. Going to the pitch with my son [on Saturday], it was special for me.

“I love football, I love this club, it was special for me going on the pitch with him.

“My message to the fans is thank you for amazing support every day and at every match. It is important for the team.

“I am very happy here in the club. For me, this club is the best in the world. I love football, I love this club.”

Romero had been linked with a move to Atletico Madrid earlier in the summer. He spurned their interest in order to extend his stay in north London, though, despite previously saying he was ‘open’ to the move.

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Rejuvenated Brazilian leaves Thomas Frank with a welcome selection decision if he can stay fit

Richarlison scored twice - including a stunning scissor kick - to help Spurs to a 3-0 win over Burnley on Saturday

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Matt Verri

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Your matchday briefing on Tottenham, featuring team news and expert analysis from Dan Kilpatrick

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There was no shortage of theories over which Tottenham players would benefit most from Thomas Frank's arrival this summer.

Archie Gray and Brennan Johnson were obvious candidates - Frank tried to sign both when in charge at Brentford. Pedro Porro was another, having been described by Frank last season as having “Trent-ish offensive qualities”.

Few, though, placed Richarlison on that list.

The 28-year-old made just four Premier League starts last term and scored five goals in all competitions.

He was the subject of interest from Saudi Arabia last summer and talk of an exit continued into this summer, with Brazilian side Palmeiras among the clubs linked.

Watching Richarlison stroll off to a standing ovation on the opening weekend of the Premier League season, that felt a world away.

Thomas Frank joked Richarlison has already scored the goal of the season with his spectacular effort against Burnley

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It is now hard to see how, should he stay fit, Frank can take him out of the side.

The forward did not look entirely thrilled to miss out on the opportunity to seal a hat-trick but his job had been done, a brace sending Spurs on their way to a comfortable 3-0 win over Burnley. Frank joked that the second of the those, a stunning scissor kick, had already secured the goal of the season award.

It felt positive enough that Richarlison was even in the starting line-up three days on from leading the line in the UEFA Super Cup against Paris Saint-Germain.

His time at Spurs has been regularly hampered by injuries and Thomas Frank made it clear after the match that is still at the front of his mind.

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“I always thought he was good when he played for Everton and when he came to Tottenham we know he struggled with some injuries,” Frank said on Saturday.

“He was unlucky also so we are very aware that we need to build him and protect him because we can’t say we just played two games back-to-back, he did well both and we are out of the woods.

“That we need to prove over a little bit longer time but the first signs are good.”

The challenge for Spurs is keeping Richarlison fit

Adam Davy/PA Wire

Spurs have been cautious with Richarlison's fitness this summer, leaving him out of the opening pre-season friendly against Reading to instead build his levels in training.

If Spurs can keep him available, the Brazilian could be an ideal fit for the new manager.

In games where Frank sets Spurs up to sit in a shape and pick their moments on the counter, Richarlison plays that lonely forward role well.

Against PSG, he was superb in holding the ball up and linking with Mohammed Kudus and the midfield. In the second half as the pressure built on Spurs, Richarlison eased that on more than one occasion by drawing a cheap foul.

That work-rate and all-round play was on display again in the Burnley match but there was end product to match it. Richarlison swept home a confident first-time finish inside the opening ten minutes and then doubled his tally after the break in spectacular fashion.

He could have had more too, with Martin Dubravka producing a brilliant save to turn an effort from the Brazilian behind.

Spurs will continue to manage Richarlison's fitness but there will be plenty of opportunities for him this season. With Dominic Solanke having injury problems of his own, there is no guarantee the England forward will immediately take back the starting spot.

Solanke had an injury-disrupted pre-season and started on the bench against Burnley

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Even when Solanke does return to full fitness and potentially the starting line-up, having Richarlison as an option to rotate will be to the benefit of both players.

It is a welcome selection headache for Frank.

Squad depth has too often been an issue for Spurs in recent seasons and having two top strikers fit and in form would majorly boost Frank's ambition of getting his side to compete on multiple fronts.

After three years that have largely been a struggle, Richarlison has been a perfect start to a new era at Spurs.

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Tottenham opened their 2025-26 Premier League campaign with a win over Burnley on Saturday, but the occasion was marred by a new addition to Thomas Frank’s injury list.

Yves Bissouma was absent from the matchday squad, with Frank confirming at full time that he had picked up an issue in training.

Thomas Frank confirmed a few days later: “Destiny got a knee injury that we're assessing at the moment that just kept him out for this pre-season tour. When we know more, we'll update more."

The midfielder was left out of the Spurs squad to face Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup for disciplinary reasons, but he did not return for a Premier League opener against Burnley, as expected.

He said: “Unfortunately he got injured in training yesterday so very unfortunate. An injury we look into how much it is.”

Asked for an update on the player’s condition in July, Frank said of the midfielder: "I don’t like to put a timeline on it [but] put it this way: he’s not ready for the first game of the season."

Kulusevski took to social media recently with a post of him juggling a football with his feet. The caption read: "First time since May."

Spurs have not put a timeframe on how long Maddison will be out but he is set for a long spell on the sidelines, but he is expected to miss much of this season.

A club statement read: “His surgery will take place in the coming days and, following that, James will then begin his rehabilitation with our medical team.

“Everyone at Tottenham Hotspur wishes James a full and speedy recovery. We will be supporting him every step of the way.”

The defender recently confirmed that his rehabilitation is going well and he is involved in all the meetings and tactical discussions with Thomas Frank despite being unable to join training with his new manager.

"I had to learn how to walk again. I was on crutches, my knee was really stiff from the surgery. It was a long process but, once I got back to normal walking, it became a positive journey.

He added: "But honestly, I just want to be back on the pitch training with the boys again. I can't wait to be back. I've been working hard, on and off the pitch, with the fitness staff. Once I'm fully fit, I can't wait to be back with the boys and back for the matches too."

Plenty of big moves being worked on before the summer transfer window closes

Targets: Eberechi Eze, Alexander Isak, Savinho

Getty / ES Composite

Arthur Ferridge

Transfer news LIVE!

Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester United are pressing on in their attempts to sign new players and make a strong start to the new Premier League season. Tottenham look set to make a splash in the market in coming days, amid reports Eberechi Eze has been left out of the matchday squad for Crystal Palace’s season opener at Stamford Bridge. He is thought to be closing in on a move to Spurs, who are also eyeing a deal for Savinho.

Liverpool have confirmed the arrival of Giovanni Leoni from Parma, though Friday night’s 4-2 win over Bournemouth may have highlighted the need to persist in a deal for Marc Guehi before the window closes. There has been a fresh update regarding the future of Alexander Isak as he is set to miss Newcastle's opening game of the campaign.

Man United's interest in Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba is thought to have cooled, but are now considering alternatives. Elsewhere, Chelsea have made it clear they want two further signings in addition to letting Nicolas Jackson leave, with Enzo Maresca targeting defensive reinforcements. Follow the latest transfer news, gossip and rumours live below!

Latest transfer news headlines

BREAKING NEWS

Eberechi Eze is set to play for Crystal Palace today, Standard Sport understands.

This is in spite of the fact that Spurs have stepped up their pursuit of the player in recent days.

Tottenham remain confident of completing a move, but Eze has not downed tools.

ALL THE LATEST FROM DOM SMITH HERE!

London Standard

Giles pleased with Brentford squad

Brentford director of football Phil Giles seems to be happy with the state of the Bees’ squad despite the loss of Bryan Mbeumo earlier this year and the imminent departure of Yoane Wissa.

He said: “We also have players such as Aaron Hickey, Rico Henry and Igor Thiago who are fit and ready, and also players such as Frank Onyeka who have benefited from a loan last season, so I think the squad is looking very strong.”

Nigel Keene/Brentford FC Official Photography via SmartFrame

City continue to work on Donnarumma deal

Man City are continuing to work on a move for Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Sky Germany report that the club are close to agreeing personal terms with the Italian, who is being edged out at PSG.

City are confident of completing a deal after Ederson departs.

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The Eze plot thickens...

Last night it was understood that Ebere Eze was due to be left out ahead of Crystal Palace’s trip across London to face Chelsea today.

But fresh reports this morning claim he could be set to start!

The Times and the Independent both report that he is set to be in the fold, and could be in line to be named in Oliver Glasner’s XI after negotiations between clubs have grown ‘difficult’.

Sky Sports add that Eze will, at the very least, be named in the matchday squad.

One to keep an eye on. Crystal Palace play Chelsea at 2pm, meaning team sheets will be revealed at 12.45pm BST.

The FA via Getty Images

Chelsea eye Konate

Chelsea are interested in Konate as a potential defensive reinforcement this summer.

Enzo Maresca wants to sign a new centre-back following Levi Colwill’s injury, though it remains unclear whether the club will indulge him.

But reports in The Athletic claim that they hold an interest in the Liverpool defender.

Liverpool FC via Getty Images

ICYMI: Brentford complete Ouattara deal

Brentford announced the signing of Dango Ouattara from Bournemouth yesterday.

At £42.5m, it is a club record deal for the Bees, and opens the door for Yoane Wissa to leave the club this summer.

Keith Andrews said: “[Ouattara] is someone that we were aware and surprised could be available and, once we knew that signing him might be a possibility, we really focused on trying to get him in.

“We liked his Premier League experience, even at his young age, and he just hasn’t found the rhythm yet because of a lack of consistent game time.”

MORE FROM KEITH ANDREWS HERE!

Brentford FC

Ederson omitted from City's league opener with exit talks 'progressing'

City goalkeeper Ederson was left out of the Man City squad for their visit to Molineux yesterday as he remains in talks over a move to Galatasaray.

It seems as though Ederson’s time at the Etihad Stadium is up, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that the Brazil international wants to leave the north-west.

The Italian journalist detailed that ‘advanced talks’ were underway between City and Turkish side Galatasaray for the shot-stopper, with the Super Lig club offering €10m for Ederson’s services.

Newly re-signed shot-stopper James Trafford started in his place and kept a clean sheet as City romped to a 4-0 win.

AFP via Getty Images

Muniz future uncertain

Marco Silva said he is unsure whether Rodrigo Muniz will remain at Craven Cottage this summer.

The striker has been heavily linked with a move to Atalanta, but scored a late equaliser to rescue a point for Fulham as they visited Brighton yesterday.

Speaking at full-time, Silva said: “I can’t be 100% sure, because not everything is in my hands. We can’t lose important players.

“If Fulham fans think instead of signing players to strengthen, we’re going to lose them, then everything’s wrong.”

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The latest on Alexander Isak

Eddie Howe issued a fresh update on Alexander Isak’s future after his Newcastle side were held to a goalless draw by Aston Villa yesterday.

The striker remains on strike as he looks to push through a move to Liverpool.

Howe said: "We would like a resolution. When I say ‘We’, I’m talking about myself, the ownership, the players, everyone really, because I think we need that clarity this season.

“Nothing’s changed, the door is well and truly open. But Alex has to decide what he wants to do.

“Alex is in control of what he does. I’m not in control of him.”

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City identify Savinho replacement

Man City will move for Rodrygo if Savinho joins Tottenham.

The Real Madrid winger has been linked to various Premier League sides this summer - predominantly Liverpool and Arsenal - but none have yet been able to pry him away from the Bernabeu.

City will be the next to try their hand, though, according to Fabrizio Romano.

They will only open talks if Savinho departs.

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