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Mason Melia is continuing to turn heads ahead of his move to Tottenham Hotspur in January, and the youngster showed in the European stage on Thursday just what many in Ireland are very excited about his potential.

Spurs signed Mason Melia from St Patrick’s Athletic for £1.6m plus add-ons back in February, which is a record transfer fee for a player signed from the League of Ireland.

The 17-year-old centre-forward has already played 80 senior matches with 23 goal involvements, and according to reports, Tottenham had to fend off interest from around 60 clubs across Europe to secure Melia’s services.

The UK’s exit from the European Union means that the youngster cannot arrive at Tottenham until he turns 18 in September, with the forward thus set to make the switch to Hotspur Way in January.

Tottenham’s Mason Melia scores and assists in European clash

Melia was the star of the show for St Pat’s as they overcame Lithuanian side Hegelmann 3-0 in the second leg of the UEFA Conference League first qualifying round.

The youngster opened the scoring just five minutes into the tie and then produced an extremely impressive assist 11 minutes into the second half.

Melia picked the ball up in his own half, turned an opponent and drove through the centre of the pitch before playing a pass to Kian Leavy, who smashed the ball home.

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The moment of class showed why many in his country expect the teenager to develop into the next big name star in Irish football.

Melia is over the moon to score his first European goal

Speaking after the win, the St Pat’s starlet admitted that he was delighted to get off the mark in Europe and to do so early into the encounter.

Melia said (via Football.London): “I’m buzzing with it. Obviously, it’s a proper striker’s goal, just follow in. Kian did brilliantly, Jay had a great shot, and I was just following in, really. A striker’s instinct. I’m buzzing obviously to get the first goal.

“I think it was huge [to get an early goal] Obviously, we got the fans going early, and it got us going early. It was a good start, and that’s what you wanted in any game of football. I’m buzzing.”

Tottenham Hotspur are keen on signing Adam Wharton from Crystal Palace, but the midfielder’s latest decision could play into the hands of Liverpool instead.

Tottenham Hotspur have strengthened their attack this summer with the arrivals of Mathys Tel and Mohammed Kudus, but there remains an urgent need to reinforce other key areas of the squad.

Midfield is seen as a major priority for Tottenham in this window, with new head coach Thomas Frank keen to ensure his side can compete on all fronts next season.

A move for Nottingham Forest midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White was believed to be close, with a medical already booked, but legal manoeuvres from Forest’s end have delayed the deal for now.

Tottenham interest in Adam Wharton faces major setback

Gibbs-White, a dynamic and industrious midfielder admired by Frank, is seen as an ideal addition to Tottenham’s engine room.

Should Spurs eventually complete the move for the Forest man, Tottenham are expected to continue pushing for further midfield reinforcements, with a holding midfielder also on the radar.

Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton is said to be a player Frank greatly admires, and reports suggest the Dane has urged Tottenham to try and bring him to N17 this summer.

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However, Palace are set to demand a hefty fee for Wharton, potentially in nine figures, which could make any approach difficult.

According to The Sun, Spurs have now been dealt a blow in their pursuit of Adam Wharton. It is understood that Wharton is content to remain at Selhurst Park for another season – a stance which now makes Liverpool favourites to sign him.

The Reds have reportedly been tracking the Palace man for months, although they are prepared to wait until next summer before firming up their pursuit, due to widespread changes within their squad this window.

Spurs may now consider Palhinha or Douglas Luiz alternatives

Tottenham could now pivot towards alternative options in midfield, with reports indicating that a deal for Douglas Luiz has been discussed internally by Spurs.

It is also claimed that Bayern Munich’s Joao Palhinha is available this summer, and Tottenham have registered their interest in the Portuguese international.

Tottenham Hotspur fans have been left divided over whether Cristian Romero should be used in midfield, in a back four, or in a back three under new boss Thomas Frank.

Tottenham Hotspur remain in the market for a new number six this summer, as Thomas Frank continues his squad overhaul ahead of the new campaign.

The Lilywhites have been strongly linked with several holding midfielders, including Joao Palhinha of Bayern Munich, who endured a frustrating debut season in Germany.

The 30-year-old failed to establish himself at Bayern and is now considering his options, with the Bundesliga giants reportedly open to letting Palhinha leave on a cut-price deal this summer.

Tottenham fans argue over Cristian Romero being used as a six

Tottenham Hotspur have also been linked with Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz, with reports suggesting a potential swap deal involving Yves Bissouma is being explored.

Amid speculation about the club’s transfer plans for another centre-back signing, with recent reports linking Tottenham with Illia Zarbanyi and Scalvini, some fans have started to imagine what a reshaped Spurs side might look like next season.

Some supporters have suggested a tactical tweak, which could see Cristian Romero deployed as a holding midfielder, either in a back three system or as part of a back four.

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One fan remarked: “I know as fans we have spoken about this a lot, but does it finally make sense to happen. “ROMERO AS THE SIX. The increase in links for starting centre backs suggests either a back three or some kind of shift around the back, Romero in midfield might be the answer.”

Another fan was firmly against the idea: “Nonsense. He is a world-class centre half. Levy cheapskating as usual does not turn Romero into prime Makalele. Raise your expectations.”

A third added: “Taking one of the world’s best CBs and trying to play him in a new position because we do not want to splash the cash and buy an actual six is a terrible idea. Archie Gray would be better as a six than Romero, and he is not ready for the first team as a six just yet.”

One supporter said: “I hate this Cristian Romero as the Tottenham six chat. He is one of the best CBs in the league and is a brick wall when him and Van de Ven are playing. Why change something that is not broken, especially when there are heaps of other sixes out there who could do the job the same if not better.”

Some were more open to the idea. One fan commented: “More likely 3-4-3 with Romero jumping out of the three to press and win the ball back like he did in his Atalanta days.”

Another added: “Three at the back and he can play as a six when we attack.” One fan who has backed the idea for a while said: “I have been messaging this for a very long time. He will make an excellent six and relieve us from his recklessness in our penalty area.”

Another simply noted: “Been thinking about this since the Ange era.”

Romero midfield idea unlikely to materialise at Spurs

Of course, Spurs are yet to bring in another centre-back or holding midfielder, meaning such conversations among supporters are bound to continue.

However, it does seem rather unlikely that Cristian Romero would be pushed into Tottenham’s midfield, considering the Argentine has never featured in that role throughout his senior career.

To date, Romero has made 243 career appearances, 240 of which have come as a centre-back, with just three as a right-back. It is clear he lacks the profile to play in midfield, meaning Tottenham are far more likely to recruit a new number six or turn to Archie Gray in the role.

However, we could see Romero used in a back three, giving him the chance to step forward more into a midfield role during transitions, much like Davinson Sanchez and Eric Dier did at times under Mauricio Pochettino.

Tottenham Hotspur run the risk of losing out on 75% of their Seoul pre-season tour fee if a big transfer goes through in the coming weeks.

For football clubs, knowing when to part ways with players who have been standout performers over an extended period is a skill in itself.

Clubs let legends go so new ones can emerge, and Tottenham Hotspur now find themselves in a position where one of the club’s most recent legends, Heung-min Son, could leave.

The Korean winger has given the best part of a decade to Tottenham, and his loyalty was greatly rewarded at the end of last season, when Son hoisted the Europa League trophy high under the lights in Bilbao, Spain.

Tottenham could miss major commercial fee if Heung-min Son is absent from Asia tour

The Telegraph have now reported that Tottenham would lose as much as 75 per cent of their agreed fee for playing in Seoul if Son is not part of the touring squad.

It is further noted that the fee would only hit 50% if Son travels with the team but does not feature in the match for Spurs in front of the local crowd.

Son is now 33 years old and has 12 months remaining on his current Tottenham contract. The Korean is also Spurs’ highest earner, but there is chatter that Son could leave Tottenham this summer if a strong offer arrives.

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It is understood that the club’s captain will not be forced out, but will be allowed to decide whether or not to leave on his own terms.

Son’s future hangs in the balance as Spurs prepare for pre-season tour

Tottenham are expected to jet off for their pre-season tour of Asia on Sunday, where they are set to face Arsenal in Hong Kong on 31 July and Newcastle United in Seoul on 3 August.

As things stand, Son looks set to be part of that pre-season tour, despite interest in Son’s services from clubs in America, Europe and the Middle East.

The club’s captain has already featured under new boss Thomas Frank in Spurs’ first pre-season fixture against Reading last Saturday.

Barring any serious injury to the Korean star, Son is expected to be involved in both matches on the Asia tour, with his long-term future likely to be resolved once the team return to the UK.

Heung-min Son featured for Tottenham in Thomas Frank’s first pre-season friendly against Reading, but the future of the Spurs captain remains unclear as the Premier League season approaches.

Heung-min Son’s future at Tottenham Hotspur has been well reported on this summer as the Korean winger enters the final year of his current contract.

Son’s contract expires next summer, and he could leave on a free transfer if he is not sold this transfer window or if Tottenham do not extend his contract further.

The Korean winger managed 11 goals and 11 assists last term in all competitions, one of his lowest returns since his first season at Tottenham.

Son, however, ended his long wait for silverware with Tottenham, after the north London club lifted the Europa League trophy in Bilbao, Spain, cementing his legacy as a club legend.

Tottenham open to selling Heung-min Son if right offer arrives

While reports have claimed that Son could be sold by Spurs this summer, it is also understood that the Tottenham captain is keen on remaining in north London for at least one more season, before heading out the exit door.

TBR Football have now revealed Tottenham’s stance regarding Son’s future. It is understood that Spurs are open to selling the Korean winger if suitable offers come this summer.

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It is also claimed that the Korean is not seen as a player who is central to what Thomas Frank is trying to build in north London.

Chief Correspondent Graeme Bailey said: “He is aware that he can leave if there is a suitable offer. He is not a cornerstone of what Tottenham are planning going forward. We know Tottenham have brought in Kudus, and they still want to sign Wissa.

“I do not think Tottenham would have any issues if he stayed, but do not be massively surprised if he moves on by the end of the window.

“He is definitely available to go, and there are a few options out there for him. But he is not a key part of Tottenham’s plans going forward.”

Spurs could reduce Son’s minutes next season if he stays

If Son is to remain in north London this summer, he could very well see his minutes reduced, as Mohammed Kudus and Mathys Tel could be handed more gametime.

The Korean winger is a legend of Spurs, but even Tottenham fans are not against the club parting ways with Son this summer window.

Son would forever be regarded as one of Tottenham’s greatest players, but at times, clubs have to be ruthless when taking such decisions.

Bournemouth centre-back, Illia Zabarnyi, has now revealed his preferred destination this summer, amid interest from Tottenham Hotspur and Paris Saint-Germain.

A few days ago, reports emerged that Tottenham Hotspur have shown interest in Bournemouth defender Illia Zabarnyi and that they are willing to pay £60.6m, including add-ons, for the 22-year-old.

The Cherries have already lost Dean Huijsen to Real Madrid this summer, after the Spanish giants paid the centre-back’s £50million release clause, and now Bournemouth could lose another centre-back this summer in the space of a month.

Spurs, however, are not the only ones to have shown interest in Zabarnyi this summer, with Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain also in the race to land the Ukrainian.

Illia Zabarnyi transfer stance as Tottenham and PSG circle

TBR Football have now revealed what Zabarnyi’s stance is regarding a move to Tottenham Hotspur, who finished eight places below Bournemouth last season.

It is understood by the publication that Zabarnyi has already agreed personal terms with Paris Saint-Germain in principle, but the French champions have not reached an agreement with Bournemouth, who are holding out for £60million.

The 22-year-old is said to have already knocked back interest from Chelsea, Liverpool and Newcastle, as he remains focused on joining the reigning European champions.

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The outlet further states that Zabarnyi is fully committed to the PSG project and is not entertaining any other offers for now.

With Atletico Madrid’s interest in Cristian Romero now reported to have cooled off, reports linking Tottenham to Zabarnyi may seem a little far-fetched.

Spurs are not in urgent need of a centre-back at the moment, and while there is talk of adding at least one defender to the Tottenham squad, splashing £60million on a backup might not align with how Daniel Levy and the recruitment team intend to spend this summer.

Thomas Frank has wasted no time stamping his identity at Tottenham, and after just a few weeks in charge, there is already a clear shift in the way Spurs are working behind the scenes.

Thomas Frank got off to the perfect start as Tottenham boss after his side secured a comfortable 2-0 win over Reading in his debut game.

A clean sheet and standout contributions from two newcomers, Luka Vuskovic and Mohammed Kudus, served as the perfect introduction for the former Brentford boss, who is looking to leave his mark on this Tottenham side.

All Spurs players have now reported for pre-season training, as preparations intensify ahead of what is shaping up to be a gruelling 2025/26 campaign for the Lilywhites, who are expected to compete on multiple fronts.

The general feeling around Tottenham’s training under Thomas Frank

Frank has openly stated that he considers himself a bit of an old-school coach, giving us a glimpse into his philosophy as Tottenham manager.

Footage from training has shown Tottenham players put through their paces in various running drills, and during one of those intense running sessions, a surprise name emerged as the winner.

Football.London has now revealed the general feeling within the Spurs camp as Tottenham players have enjoyed Frank’s blend of old-school and modern techniques.

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It is understood that Frank’s training sessions have so far placed a much heavier emphasis on defensive structure, including for the attacking players, while also finishing most days with fitness work, particularly running.

It is claimed that the head coach is looking to push his squad to the physical levels that his tactical approach demands.

It is also further stated that there is a strong emphasis on aggression in all aspects of play, with players instructed to be assertive in and out of possession, pressing with intent and reacting sharply to transitions.

Spurs’ defensive reset under Thomas Frank is no coincidence

Tottenham endured a difficult 2024/25 season, with frailties both in defence and occasionally in attack derailing their campaign.

Spurs ended the year with a negative goal difference – one of the worst in the club’s recent history – and that statistic alone paints a clear picture of the issues that plagued the squad.

That is why it is not surprising to see Thomas Frank placing a strong focus on defensive shape and intensity ahead of the new season.

Tottenham and Newcastle are both keen on the same Aston Villa midfielder who has two years left on his current deal, and Champions League football could be enough to catch his eye.

Tottenham Hotspur fans would want to see their club show even more ambition this summer after Spurs completed the signing of Mohammed Kudus from West Ham United.

Spurs fans would have been delighted with their new signing after seeing him impress in his debut performance in the pre-season clash against Reading at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, where he grabbed an assist.

Tottenham have at least £60m to spend, having put in a bid for Morgan Gibbs-White, and with a deal for the midfielder being delayed by Nottingham Forest, it is only expected that Spurs turn their attention to other players.

Tottenham consider Aston Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey

Tottenham Hotspur have shown interest in Jacob Ramsey before, however, such interest has not developed to the stage of a bid being put in.

The midfielder, who came through Aston Villa’s academy, featured 29 times in the Premier League last season, but most of those appearances were from the bench.

TBR Football report that Tottenham and Newcastle United have both been long-term admirers of Ramsey, and remain very keen on signing him this summer. Ramsey has just two years left on his Villa deal and a move is said to be possible this summer.

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Graeme Bailey, TBR Football’s chief correspondent, also reported that playing Champions League football is something that is very important to Ramsey.

He added: “Jacob Ramsey is a huge talent, nobody has to tell Aston Villa that. But he is central to their plans? Maybe not, and the player knows that. Sometimes a move can just suit a player and a club, and this could be one of those instances.”

Spurs must weigh up Ramsey’s output against other options

Nottingham Forest have also shown interest in Jacob Ramsey, who could be a possible replacement for Morgan Gibbs-White should they allow their talisman to complete a move to Tottenham.

However, if Forest do refuse to sell Gibbs-White, Spurs could make an offer for the 24-year-old Villa man, who could be tempted to join the Lilywhites, as they can offer him a chance to play in the Champions League.

Ramsey’s numbers, however, might not spark much confidence, as he managed just four goals and seven assists in 46 appearances last campaign, while Gibbs-White managed 17 goal contributions in 34 Premier League games.

Tottenham have now opened talks with the agent of RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons, as the Morgan Gibbs-White deal continues to drag on.

Tottenham Hotspur’s pursuit of Morgan Gibbs-White has dragged on far longer than expected, with the midfielder still not officially unveiled as a Spurs player despite the North London side having triggered his £60 million release clause over a week ago.

There have been several twists in the transfer saga, and Tottenham fans have understandably grown impatient, calling for the club to explore other targets if there continues to be no breakthrough.

The Nottingham Forest man did enjoy a strong campaign last season, registering 17 goal contributions across all competitions – seven goals and ten assists, which likely explains why Tottenham remain so intent on bringing him in.

Tottenham in talks with Xavi Simons as Arsenal and Chelsea circle

CaughtOffside are now reporting that Xavi Simons’ agent has opened talks with Tottenham Hotspur and two other Premier League sides this summer.

The links between Simons and Tottenham emerged earlier in the window, but had appeared to cool after Spurs made their move for Morgan Gibbs-White. However, the North London club are now seemingly keeping their options open.

Tottenham are not alone in their interest, though, as Simons’ agents have also reportedly held discussions with Arsenal and Chelsea, with all three clubs weighing up a possible summer swoop for the Dutch international.

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Could Spurs see Simons as a Gibbs-White alternative?

Simons scored 11 goals and registered eight assists in all competitions last season, and it is understood that the Netherlands international is keen on a move to the Premier League this summer.

While the report claims that Tottenham have initiated talks with the 22-year-old’s representatives, it also mentions that Manchester United and Newcastle United have been monitoring the situation closely.

The RB Leipzig star is currently valued at £52 million, with some outlets even claiming that Simons could be bought for £40million, which is less than the £60million Tottenham are expected to pay to land Gibbs-White.

Whether Spurs make a concrete approach for Simons will likely depend on how the Gibbs-White deal develops over the coming days.

Tottenham may be about to miss out on highly-rated Brazilian teenager, Rayan, who they have been monitoring for several months.

While Tottenham Hotspur appear to be targeting players with more experience this summer, they are also continuing with their policy of securing the best young talent from around the globe.

The Lilywhites have completed the permanent signing of Mathys Tel and have won the race for 20-year-old Japanese defender Kota Takai.

The North Londoners have also been keeping an eye on a highly-rated Brazilian teenager. Back in April, it emerged that Tottenham are considering a move for Vasco Da Gama winger Rayan.

Tottenham and Arsenal look set to miss out on Rayan

Spurs are not the only club eyeing a move for the 18-year-old, with reports indicating that Tottenham are facing competition from Arsenal and Fiorentina for Rayan.

However, according to a new report in Globo Esporte, Vasco da Gama are advancing talks to renew the winger’s contract for the second time this year.

The 18-year-old striker had already extended his deal in April, signing a deal until the end of 2026, but the club are now willing to increase his salary so that they can extend his contract and raise his release clause.

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While the Brazilian side see this as just reward for Rayan’s recent form, they are also doing it to ensure that Spurs and other European clubs cannot easily poach him this summer.

Rayan is set for Vasco Da Gama stay

Globo Esporte assert that Vasco are keen to hang on to Rayan at least until the end of the year, and the club expect his value to grow substantially over the coming months and years.

While they face financial challenges right now, they remain determined to resist pressures from Europe for the Brazilian youth international.

They fully expect Rayan to remain at the club until the end of the season and are relying on their close relationship with the player’s father to ensure they are not blindsided by a European club.