London Evening Standard

Standard Sport understands Spurs remained in discussions over a potential deal after an opening bid of around £8million was rejected by the Brazilian side.

The new offer is worth £13m, with the player said to be keen on a move to the Premier League.

Spurs are in the market for a left-back to provide competition for Destiny Udogie, who has recently returned to training after a hamstring injury.

In Udogie’s absence, responsibilities have largely fallen to right-back Djed Spence to deputise, though 32-year-old Ben Davies filled in for Spurs’ 1-1 draw with Sunderland on Saturday.

Souza, who has a release clause worth €100m (£87.1m) for overseas clubs, is widely regarded at Santos after breaking into the first team last season.

The Brazilian youth international made 24 appearances last term as Santos avoided relegation to the second division.

Thomas Frank has reiterated that Spurs, who are currently 13th in the Premier League table, will be busy in the January transfer window.

Amid talks to sign a left-back, the departure of Brennan Johnson to Crystal Palace and Mohammed Kudus’ thigh injury mean Spurs’ priority for January is attacking reinforcements.

Asked whether he was worried that Spurs’ league position could deter potential targets from signing for the club, Frank dismissed the suggestion and lauded the club’s potential.

“I think we are very attractive in many ways. I think Spurs is a fantastic club with a huge potential,” said Frank.

“I think some of the boxes you need to tick is, of course, the stadium and the training ground and the potential.

“Of course, if we compete against the three teams that are clearly ahead of us - City, Arsenal, and Liverpool, unfortunately - then those three clubs are probably more attractive right now.

“That’s not to say that we can’t attract some of the players that also want to go to those clubs.

“It depends a little bit if there is a spot available for the player to play in those clubs and here, for example.”

Both Thomas Frank and Andoni Iraola will be desperate to get back to winning ways this evening as Tottenham make the long trip south to face Bournemouth in the Premier League. Tonight’s contenders have just one win between them since mid-December, with the Cherries’ 11-match winless run a particular eye-sore on the form chart. They impressed - to a degree - in last week’s narrow loss to Arsenal, but sorely need three points as they look to put some much-needed breathing space between themselves and the relegation zone.

Frank, meanwhile, has been rather at odds with the travelling Spurs support in recent weeks, copping considerable boos after a dour goalless draw with Brentford, but a win here would work wonders for patching that stretched relationship. He will be up against it, though, with no fit right-winger in the squad following an injury to Mohammed Kudus and the sale of Brennan Johnson.

All hope is not lost, though: Xavi Simons is available again having served his red card suspension. Follow the action LIVE below with Standard Sport’s dedicated match blog, complete with expert insight and analysis from Sam Tabuteau at the Vitality Stadium.

Both Thomas Frank and Andoni Iraola will be desperate to get back to winning ways this evening as Tottenham make the long trip south to face Bournemouth in the Premier League. Tonight’s contenders have just one win between them since mid-December, with the Cherries’ 11-match winless run a particular eye-sore on the form chart. They impressed - to a degree - in last week’s narrow loss to Arsenal, but sorely need three points as they look to put some much-needed breathing space between themselves and the relegation zone.

Frank, meanwhile, has been rather at odds with the travelling Spurs support in recent weeks, copping considerable boos after a dour goalless draw with Brentford, but a win here would work wonders for patching that stretched relationship. He will be up against it, though, with no fit right-winger in the squad following an injury to Mohammed Kudus and the sale of Brennan Johnson.

All hope is not lost, though: Xavi Simons is available again having served his red card suspension. Follow the action LIVE below with Standard Sport’s dedicated match blog, complete with expert insight and analysis from Sam Tabuteau at the Vitality Stadium.

Mohammed Kudus has not made the squad for Tottenham’s trip to Bournemouth after undergoing a scan on a thigh injury sustained against Sunderland.

Kudus went down off the ball, clutching his left thigh, and received treatment on the pitch before being replaced by Randal Kolo Muani in the 19th minute.

Thomas Frank confirmed in his pre-match press conference that the 25-year-old had undergone a scan to determine the severity of the issue and said he was unlikely to travel with the squad to the Vitality Stadium.

“He's going for a scan here, 1 o'clock, to clarify the issue. So unfortunately, I don't have a big update on it,” the Tottenham boss said.

In Kudus’ absence, Spurs will travel to Bournemouth without a natural right winger, and after an impressive cameo against Sunderland, Kolo Muani will deputise for the Ghanaian.

There are decisions to be made in midfield, with Lucas Bergvall returning from injury against Sunderland. He slots straight back into the lineup.

So too does Xavi Simons, back from suspension after serving a three-game ban following his sending off against Liverpool.

Dominic Solanke remains unavailable despite returning to training last week, but Destiny Udogie might make the matchday squad as he steps up his recovery from a hamstring injury.

“He [Udogie] is training and he's looking better, so that's positive,” Frank said. “No [Solanke won't be involved against Bournemouth]. Positive, going forward."

Confirmed: The three new arrivals Liam Rosenior will be bringing to Chelsea

Confirmed: The three new arrivals Rosenior will be bringing to Chelsea

Tottenham may be forced to sign a forward in January as Mohammed Kudus faces a considerable spell on the sidelines.

Kudus went down off the ball with a thigh injury during Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Sunderland at Hotspur Stadium and was withdrawn after receiving treatment.

It remains unclear exactly how long he will be sidelined, but, after scans revealed the injury is worse than first feared, he is expected to miss multiple matches.

His absence leaves Spurs seriously shorthanded in attack. The right flank will prove a particular problem area after Brennan Johnson was sold to Crystal Palace last week.

Standard Sport understands Spurs will consider their options in the transfer market so as to bolster Frank’s squad heading into the second half of the season.

Antoine Semenyo’s move to Man City could also unsettle Savinho, whom Tottenham moved for in the summer, though it is unclear whether they remain interested in a move.

Frank himself has admitted that Tottenham are in the market for reinforcements across the front line, saying on Monday that his squad is “a little bit short on offensive options.”

Another Spurs target has emerged in Brazilian full-back Souza, who currently plies his trade at Santos. The north Londoners saw an £8million bid rejected last week.

Loan turnover has already begun, too, with South Korean forward Yang Min-hyeok set to be recalled from his season-long stay at Portsmouth in favour of a move to Coventry, where he will join up with Crystal Palace’s Romain Esse.

Thomas Frank and Andoni Iraola both out to end growing winless runs

Tottenham head to the south coast to face Bournemouth in the Premier League

ES Composite

Arthur Ferridge

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Thomas Frank will hope to repair his relationship with Tottenham supporters as he visits Bournemouth in the Premier League.

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The Dane’s relationship with fans has grown strained amid a recent run of poor results, which have seen Spurs win just one of their last five outings.

Supporters booed him off the pitch after draws to Sunderland and Brentford in the past week, but he could win over his sceptics with a convincing showing on the south coast.

The trip to Bournemouth presents Frank a fantastic opportunity to nick a result, too. The Cherries are winless in 11 matches since October, losing six and drawing five in the interim.

Tottenham do have a knack for gifting results to struggling sides, but with the likes of Xavi Simons, Lucas Bergvall and Destiny Udogie all expected to be back in contention at the Vitality, an important win seems within reach.

Date, kick-off time and venue

Bournemouth vs Tottenham is scheduled for a 7.30pm GMT kick-off on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.

The match will take place at the Vitality Stadium in Bournemouth.

The Vitality Stadium is the Premier League’s smallest ground

Steven Paston/PA Wire

Where to watch Bournemouth vs Tottenham

TV channel: In the UK, the game will be televised live on Sky Sports Golf, with coverage starting at 6pm ahead of a 7.30pm kick-off.

Live stream: Sky Sports subscribers can also catch the contest live online via the Sky Go app and website.

Live blog: You can follow all the action on matchday via Standard Sport’s live blog, with expert analysis from Sam Tabuteau at the ground.

Bournemouth vs Tottenham team news

Injuries are mounting for Spurs, and Frank’s selection will be greatly impacted by a rash of attacking absentees.

Mohammed Kudus is expected to miss out after sustaining a thigh injury off the ball in the Sunderland draw, and Frank said he would “most likely” miss the trip to Bournemouth.

He has undergone a scan ahead of the match, though.

Mohammed Kudus’ injury is a huge blow for Tottenham

Getty Images

Lucas Bergvall returned from injury in that match, though, and Xavi Simons will also be available for selection having served a three-match suspension after being sent off against Liverpool.

Destiny Udogie could also feature as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury. James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski, and Dominic Solanke remain long-term absentees.

For Bournemoouth, Iraola will be unable to call upon Justin Kluivert, who is set to go under the knife to correct a recent knee injury.

Also absent is Ben Gannon-Doak, who injured his thigh on international duty in November, while Tyler Adams and Ryan Christie are both out with knee problems.

Veljko Milosavljevic is pushing to return from a knee injury of his own, which Iraola has described as “not big.” He will face a late fitness test ahead of Tottenham’s visit to the Vitality.

Bournemouth vs Tottenham prediction

Neither Tottenham nor Bournemouth have won a match for some time, and this outing will likely prove a cagey affair as both look to snatch the opportunity to snap their dire runs.

Both sides are dealing with a number of injuries, too, but Frank will be optimistic that the returns of Simons and Bergvall could be enough to kick Spurs’ attack into gear against a porous Bournemouth defence, which has shipped 14 goals in their last five.

This is as good a chance as any for Tottenham to add a new tally to the win column.

Tottenham to win, 1-0.

Head to head (h2h) history and results

Tottenham have not won any of their last three meetings with Bournemouth, last pipping the Cherries on New Year’s Eve in 2023.

Bournemouth wins: 5

Tottenham wins: 10

Draws: 3

Bournemouth vs Tottenham match odds

Bournemouth to win: 1/1

Tottenham to win: 2/1

Draw: 21/10

Odds via Betfair (subject to change).

MORE ABOUT

Spurs badly need to upgrade their squad in 2026 and are set to be active in January, with the club targeting new signings in some key areas.

Here, Standard Sport runs the rule over every player in the first-team squad and assesses who they should keep and who they should sell.

Vicario has showcased both the best and worst aspects of his game under Thomas Frank. A strong shot stopper and commanding character, the Italian has saved Spurs on numerous occasions this season. But he remains prone to an error. It is clear that goalkeeper is a position that Spurs can look to upgrade. SELL

It has not gone to plan for Kinsky since he burst onto the scene at the start of 2025. Vicario’s return to fitness has seen his minutes limited, but there is still a future for the 22-year-old. It remains to be seen whether Kinsky would be open to a loan move to get regular minutes. KEEP OR LOAN

One of the few players in squad with genuine world-class potential. The Dutch centre half is growing into a leader and is considered among one of the best defenders in the Premier League. Interest is building in Van de Ven and it is imperative Spurs keep hold of him. KEEP

A player whom Frank feels he can get the best out of, Spence has become a reliable option at full-back and his versatility serves Spurs well. There are few better defenders one-on-one. A player whose best days are ahead of him, which can’t be said for most of Spurs’ squad. KEEP

Some feel Romero is the only world-class player in the Spurs squad. Other say he lets the team down too often. If, as the Lewis Family have asserted, a new era beckons then they need to move on. SELL

Having only just returned from a long injury lay-off, Dragusin could leave this month. It remains to be seen whether that will be on loan or permanently, with Frank reluctant to clarify if he has a future at the club. SELL

A dependable option in the backline, Danso provides important cover at centre-back. Frank is looking to trim his squad but Danso is a good option to call upon when needed. KEEP

Porro’s quality in attack has made him a target for some big six clubs. His crossing ability is matched by few in the Premier League. But his defensive frailties continue to cost Spurs and they would be wise to try and move on from him. SELL

Has struggled with injuries but has the potential to develop into a top-level full-back. Tied down until 2030, he is part of the core of young players who could help build the spine of the team going forward. KEEP

Has had an injury-disrupted start to life at Spurs but has a fearsome reputation from his time in Japan. At just 21, Takai is another one for the future. KEEP

Palhinha has been a solid addition to the Spurs midfield since his loan move from Bayern Munich in the summer. Spurs have an option to buy him at the end of the season, and they would be wise to use it. The 30-year-old adds experience and aggression to a relatively young midfield. KEEP

Frank trusts Gray implicitly and has referenced him as the future of Spurs’ midfield. The 19-year-old is now getting regular starts in his preferred position. Spurs have made a number of smart young signings in the last couple of seasons, with Gray arguably the pick of the bunch. KEEP

Bergvall’s ability to stretch the pitch and attack space makes him a valuable player for Spurs. The Swedish midfielder, like Gray, has earned the trust of Frank and is viewed as a crucial part of the future. Keeping Bergvall and Gray at the club is of paramount importance. KEEP

Another young midfielder with plenty of potential, Spurs need to champion Gray, Bergvall and Sarr if they want to carve out an identity under Frank. Now in his fourth season as a Spurs player, now needs to push on and become a regular starter. KEEP

Bentancur is a player with limitations, but at his best he provides a useful bridge between defence and attack that Spurs lack. With little resale value, it would be smarter for Spurs to keep hold of him, even if just to provide experience as Bergvall, Gray and Sarr take up more prominent roles. KEEP

Simons has not started brilliantly at Spurs as he struggles to adapt to the pace and physicality of the Premier League. But he is clearly talented and has shown enough to suggest that, in time, he can be the creative hub of the team. KEEP

Remains sidelined through injury but is probably the most talented player in the Spurs squad. His return to fitness will provide a major boost for Frank, whose side have looked bereft of creativity from open play. Has been linked with Manchester City in the past but is a key player. KEEP

An anterior cruciate ligament injury on the eve of this season came at the worst possible time for Maddison. There had already been talk of whether Spurs needed to move on from Maddison and, through no fault of his own, he has not had a chance to prove his worth. It feels wrong to be talking about his future when he is out injured for such a long period. KEEP FOR NOW

Frank has been suitably unimpressed by his options out wide, but Odobert is one player he seems to like. The 21-year-old provides pace in behind and has increasingly been given opportunities. Frank wants to add reinforcements in attack in January, but Odobert’s place in the side appears to be secure. KEEP

Kudus has been one of Spurs’ best players this season and has nailed down a starting berth on the right. He needs to become more consistent if he is to be considered among the best wingers in the Premier League, but he has shown enough to suggest he is capable of making that step. KEEP

Solanke’s ankle injury has been a nightmare for Spurs, who have lacked a reliable presence up front in his absence this season. The striker enjoyed a promising debut season last year and will come straight back into the team when he is fit. There is potentially a conversation to be had further down the line about whether he has the ability to make Spurs a top team. KEEP FOR NOW

A talented player with age on his side, he is not quite a striker and not quite a winger, which makes him a difficult player for Frank to fit in his team. At 20 and having only just joined on a permanent deal, there is plenty of time for Tel to prove his worth. But at the moment he does not make Spurs better. KEEP

Richarlison has scored seven goals in 17 Premier League appearances this season but he is not the answer up front, having consistently struggled for form and fitness during his time at Spurs. The club will surely assess their striking options at the end of the season, which could spell the end for Richarlison. SELL

Everyone at Spurs has been willing Scarlett to make the breakthrough into the first team. Now 21, the fear is his opportunity has passed. Another loan move could be an option, but Scarlett really needs regular football to try to forge out a career. SELL OR LOAN

Mohammed Kudus is likely to be unavailable for Tottenham’s trip to Bournemouth on Wednesday after undergoing a scan on a thigh injury sustained against Sunderland.

Kudus went down off the ball, clutching his left thigh, and received treatment on the pitch before being replaced by Randal Kolo Muani in the 19th minute.

Thomas Frank confirmed in his pre-match press conference that the 25-year-old had undergone a scan to determine the severity of the issue and said he was unlikely to travel with the squad to the Vitality Stadium.

“He's going for a scan here, 1 o'clock, to clarify the issue. So unfortunately, I don't have a big update on it,” the Tottenham boss said.

In Kudus’ absence, Spurs will travel to Bournemouth without a natural right winger, and after an impressive cameo against Sunderland, Kolo Muani again looks set to deputise for the Ghanaian.

Mathys Tel also impressed on the left wing, and he could be in line to make just his fifth Premier League start of the season on the south coast.

There are decisions to be made in midfield, with Lucas Bergvall returning from injury against Sunderland.

Frank likes Bergvall, particularly for his ability to stretch the play in behind.

However, with Xavi Simons back from suspension after serving a three-game ban following his sending off against Liverpool, the Swede will likely remain on the bench.

Dominic Solanke remains unavailable despite returning to training last week, but Destiny Udogie might make the matchday squad as he steps up his recovery from a hamstring injury.

“He [Udogie] is training and he's looking better, so that's positive,” Frank said. “No [Solanke won't be involved against Bournemouth]. Positive, going forward."

The England striker will not be available for Wednesday’s trip to Bournemouth, and Spurs boss Frank has urged caution ahead of Solanke’s comeback, insisting that he is still adapting.

“Today you could see in training that he's nice and composed on the ball, good decisions, good touches, and then when we’re a little bit more competitive in the small-sided [games], he is of course lacking [sharpness], and he looked a little rusty, which is completely normal,” Frank said at his pre-match press conference.

“Now he's unfortunately been out for at least six months, right? Yeah, six months, a little bit more than that, so, of course, it will take a little bit of time.

“So, even if he's ready for whatever time in the near future, hopefully [soon], then I think you will be surprised to just see him hit the ground running. Very few players do that.”

Solanke, who provided 16 goals and eight assists across all competitions last season, has played just 49 minutes so far this term, with Spurs lacking a consistent focal point up front in his absence.

The 28-year-old won’t play against former club Bournemouth and Frank is wary of the threat that the Cherries’ front four, which includes one-time Tottenham transfer target Antoine Semenyo, will cause his team.

“I think [Andoni] Iraola has done a top job down there,” Frank said. “First and foremost being part of creating an interesting team, with interesting players that have done well and developed them, so they've also gone to on paper play for big clubs.

“They play a very aggressive pressing game, one of the best pressing teams in the league, if not the best. They play with incredible intensity.

“They also play fairly direct, so if you press, boom there's a ball behind, so you need to deal with that. They have a very lively front four, no matter who plays, so that's where we need to be good and compete, but also be smart.”