Football FanCast

Tottenham are gearing up for two first-team friendlies in one day this Saturday, and away from the pitch, Thomas Frank's busy Lilywhites continue their summer recruitment plans.

Spurs announced that they will be taking on both Wycombe Wanderers in a behind-closed-doors encounter at 11am tomorrow before their trip to Kenilworth Road, with their later clash against Luton Town kicking off just four hours later.

The two matches will give a number of first-team players much-needed match action, with the squad set to be split into two groups. Earlier this week, Frank explained this decision in an official statement which confirmed their additional game against Wycombe.

"We wanted an extra game in our schedule to give as many players as many match minutes as possible, in order to put them in the best position, physically," said Frank.

"We will play two even, strong teams, and they will play between 60 and 75 minutes, maybe more. By the end of Saturday, 22 players will have played a lot of match minutes, and they will be in a very good place before we go on tour."

As Tottenham gear up for two 90-minute contests in quick succession, chairman Daniel Levy and technical director Johan Lange maintain the club's pursuit of new signings before deadline day on September 1.

Reliable media sources claim that Brentford striker Yoane Wissa remains a target for Spurs, and they're in ongoing talks for the Congolese who scored 20 goals in all competitions under Frank last campaign.

However, Newcastle United are also in talks for Wissa, and they're poised to submit a new bid in an attempt to win the race for Frank's former star (Sky Sports).

While Frank faces stiff competition for the 28-year-old, as things stand, it looks as if Spurs are the only team competing for Nottingham Forest playmaker Morgan Gibbs-White.

Morgan Gibbs-White agrees "in principle" to join Tottenham

The 25-year-old was on the verge of a move to north London a fortnight ago, with Spurs even scheduling a medical for Gibbs-White on July 11 as they prepared to pay his £60 million release clause (BBC).

However, Forest then unceremoniously blocked the transfer - threatening both Tottenham and the player's agent with a letter of legal action against them (Sky Sports). Nuno Espirito Santo's side objected to how Spurs found out about Gibbs-White's 'confidential' clause whilst accusing them of 'tapping up' the player too, and this tense stalemate remains ongoing with Levy hoping for a breakthrough (Fabrizio Romano).

According to journalist Graeme Bailey, sharing an update on the situation for TBR Football, Gibbs-White has agreed "in principle" to join Tottenham, and Forest appear resigned to eventually losing the England international.

This is because Evangelos Marinakis and his recruitment team are actively pursuing replacements, with talks ongoing over a deal for Man City's James McAtee.

Spurs are not giving up on signing Gibbs-White and the attacking midfielder remains their absolute priority. Forest were also hoping that City would come back in for Gibbs-White to spark a potential bidding war, but Pep Guardiola and co have "moved on" - giving Frank a clear run.

If the former Wolves star wishes to push through a move to N17, Sky Sports have claimed that Gibbs-White has the option of threatening Forest with legal action of his own for breach of contract.

Alternatively, Tottenham could offer to pay a larger fee to Forest in an attempt to loosen their stranglehold on Gibbs-White and finally seal the deal.

Tottenham still have a few key items on their transfer agenda, and luckily for chairman Daniel Levy, weeks remain before the deadline day timer runs out on September 1.

Spurs have already spent around £112 million on the signings of Kevin Danso, Mathys Tel, Kota Takai and Mohammed Kudus this summer, and that number really should be closer to £172 million, if not for Nottingham Forest blocking Morgan Gibbs-White's £60m switch to Spurs two weeks ago.

The Lilywhites could still sign Gibbs-White, but may end up paying more compensation to sweeten the deal and loosen Forest's legal stranglehold on the player (Stefan Borson).

As Forest maintain their stalemate with Tottenham over Gibbs-White, following their unhappiness over an alleged 'illegal approach', Spurs do have their eyes on other targets for different areas of the squad.

According to reliable journalist Ben Jacobs this week, Brentford striker Yoane Wissa is still in their sights, despite rival interest from Forest and Newcastle United, with Tottenham also believed to be in talks for the Congolese.

Alongside Wissa, Tottenham are in the market for a number six, but they'll need to offload one of their current abundance of central midfielders, which will most likely be Yves Bissouma (Alasdair Gold).

Bayern Munich's Joao Palhinha is apparently one of many targets being considered by Thomas Frank and co in that regard (Alasdair Gold), but they're also keen on a new cenre-back.

The Telegraph reported earlier this week that they're weighing up a move for Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi, who's now entered the final 12 months of his contract, and the centre of defence is a position actively being looked at.

Frank already has Micky van de Ven, Cristian Romero, Radu Dragusin, Luka Vuskovic and Danso as options in that area, and it would've been six centre-backs if Ashley Phillips hadn't sealed a loan move back to Stoke City earlier this week.

Vuskovic could also depart on a loan deal, but that would still leave Spurs with four senior centre-backs - perhaps indicating that there is still uncertainty surrounding Romero's future.

Crystal Palace prepared to sell Marc Guehi amid Tottenham interest

Now, as per GiveMeSport, an update has emerged on the future of Guehi as Tottenham continue to register an interest in the England international.

The Lilywhites had a club-record £70 million bid rejected for Guehi in January, as widely reported, but the defender's contract situation means that Eagles chairman Steve Parish could now let him go for £45 million.

Palace are apparently open to offers for Guehi before deadline day, with Spurs, Liverpool and Newcastle all keen, so this could be one to watch as the 25-year-old's future becomes one of the main talking points in the last few weeks of this window.

"There is a price and a situation where we might consider it," Parish told BBC Sport last summer.

"Somebody [in another interview] said he is a superstar, so somebody has got to pay superstar money. Realistically, he is homegrown, 24 years old and a sensational talent - so somebody has to make it difficult for us. At the moment, it isn't."

Now, the situation has changed, and Parish is very unlikely to get 'superstar money' with Palace facing the prospect of losing him for free in 2026.

Tottenham Hotspur’s priority this summer has been to strengthen their first-team squad this summer, with Thomas Frank needing the tools to succeed during his spell in North London.

Mohammed Kudus has been the first major addition of the Dane’s tenure at the club, costing a staggering £55m from fellow London outfit West Ham United.

However, after completing a deal for the Ghanaian international, their recruitment has evidently switched to landing new midfield talents to help bolster the middle of the park.

Morgan Gibbs-White has arguably been the most high-profile name linked with a move in such a department, even making a £60m bid for the England international.

The delay in the move has forced the Lilywhites to carry on their hunt elsewhere, subsequently drawing up a shortlist of other midfielders who could make the move to North London this summer.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new midfielders this summer

Douglas Luiz is a player who’s been on Spurs’ radar over recent weeks, with the Brazilian almost certain to leave Juventus this summer after making three Serie A starts last season.

In recent days, his agent has travelled to England to speak to possible interested clubs, but it remains unclear at this stage if Frank’s side are one of the teams who will enter talks.

However, another midfielder has emerged as key target for the club this window, with Bayern Munich star Joao Palhinha a player under consideration, according to journalist Sam Dean.

He claims that work is already being done behind the scenes to land the 30-year-old this summer, as he’s expected to be allowed to depart the Bundesliga titleholders in a hunt for added game time.

Dean also states that a permanent or temporary move could take place this window, looking to get ahead in the race for his signature, after Arsenal previously explored a move for the Portuguese international.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be the dream Wharton alternative

Adam Wharton has been another midfielder linked with a summer move to join Spurs this summer, with the youngster one of the most highly-rated youngsters in England’s top-flight.

The 21-year-old may have only made 36 Premier League appearances since joining the Eagles in January 2024, but he’s already impressed massively, subsequently being named in England’s squad for Euro 2024.

Such a move would be an exciting one for the Lilywhites’ supporters, but it may be one they’re priced out of, with Oliver Glasner’s side currently demanding around £100m for his signature.

It’s unclear if the player himself would be keen on a switch across the capital to join Frank’s side, leading to the hierarchy targeting other reinforcements such as Palhinha.

Whilst on the face of it, the 30-year-old may not be the name the supporters are excited by, they should be happy with a potential move, with the former Fulham star being somewhat underrated in recent times.

When comparing his stats to those of Wharton from the most recent campaign, he managed to outperform him in numerous key areas, highlighting the qualities he could add to the current side.

Palhinha, who’s been labelled “outrageous” by Squawka, completed more of the passes he attempted, whilst registering more passes into the final third, showcasing the talent he possesses with the ball at his feet.

He also managed to win more tackles per 90, also making more blocks, handing Frank the real commanding deep-lying presence he’s been after since taking the reins.

The former Sporting CP star has also dominated aerially, winning over 30% more of the battles he entered, a part of his game which could prove to be vital at both ends of the pitch.

Whilst a move for Palhinha may not be many fans' first choice this window, he’s proven in Germany that he possesses a lot of top-level talent that could improve the side.

A deal for Wharton will have to stay on hold for the time being, but although the Portuguese international is a cheaper option, it doesn’t mean that the side will be getting any less of a quality addition.

Two weeks after triggering his £60m release clause in Morgan Gibbs-White’s contract, Tottenham Hotspur are still yet to complete a deal for his signature.

The saga continues to be dragged out, with the midfielder now returning to pre-season training and even going on tour with his current outfit, Nottingham Forest.

It remains unclear as to what could happen over the next few weeks, with a deal dragging out and restricting the business Thomas Frank can conduct in his first window in charge.

Whether the player wants the move or not, no deal can progress until the illegal approach situation with the Reds is resolved, something which could take time when dealing with Evangelos Marinakis.

Undoubtedly, other targets are being drawn up as a result of the delay, possibly seeing the hierarchy move away from a move for Gibbs-White and targeting other Premier League talents.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer

Over the last couple of weeks, Harvey Elliott has been touted with a move to join Spurs, looking to add further quality in attacking areas in North London.

The Liverpool star could be an expensive addition this summer, with Arne Slot’s side demanding a fee in the region of £40m to offload the 22-year-old attacker this window.

However, he’s not the only Premier League player currently in their sights, leading to work being done behind the scenes to sign Manchester United star Kobbie Mainoo.

According to TBR Football, the Lilywhites have reached out to the Red Devils to ask about a potential move for the 20-year-old, who made 37 appearances across all competitions last season.

The report also states that the player could leave Old Trafford this summer, after contract talks between the player and the club recently hit a stalemate.

Previous claims have suggested that United placed a £70m asking price on the midfielder's head earlier in the summer.

Why Spurs’ latest target is a bigger talent than Gibbs-White

At the time of his £44.5m transfer to Forest, eyebrows were raised at the magnitude of the fee, but it’s safe to say the 25-year-old has justified every penny during his time at the City Ground.

The former Wolves star has posted a total of 18 goals and 26 assists for Nuno Espírito Santo’s side in his 118 appearances for the club, remaining as one of very few players left from their first season back in England’s top flight.

He’s even taken responsibility for being their club captain in recent times, leading the Reds to European football for the first time in three decades.

As good as his addition would be to Frank’s side this window, there are better deals to be had, especially given the drama the hierarchy currently face with Forest.

Mainoo could prove to be just that for the Lilywhites, already producing numerous high-profile feats that are arguably better than what Gibbs-White has achieved.

The youngster has already scored a key goal in a Europa League semi-final, whilst even being part of the England squad during the Euro 2024 tournament last summer.

His stats from the Premier League last season also highlight why he’d be a key addition, managing to outperform the 25-year-old in multiple areas that are crucial for a midfielder.

Mainoo, who’s been labelled “generational” by teammate Rasmus Hojlund, completed more of the passes he attempted, whilst completing more take-ons, evidently thriving with the ball at his feet.

Out of possession, he’s been just as dominant, winning more tackles per 90, whilst also registering a higher tally of recoveries - potentially being the perfect box-to-box option for Frank’s side.

Whilst it’s unclear how much a deal for the youngster would cost the Lilywhites this summer, it’s clear that he’s already a bigger talent than the Forest star - having the potential to improve further in the years ahead.

If the hierarchy could complete a deal for Mainoo’s signature, it would certainly be a statement signing, handing the new boss the talents he needs to be a success in North London.

Tottenham manager Thomas Frank has now personally identified one former Chelsea star as a top target for the Lilywhites this summer, according to a report.

Spurs are currently working to reinforce their squad with more quality options as Frank gears up for his first ever campaign as a Champions League manager, not to mention his debut season in charge of a 'big six' Premier League side.

The pressure is truly on Frank, to a much greater extent than any of his previous managerial roles, especially after his predecessor, Ange Postecoglou, ended the club's 17-year wait for a major trophy by winning the Europa League.

Tottenham have promised Frank that they will invest significantly in the transfer window this summer, according to some reports, and they've so far made good on that pledge by striking deals for Kevin Danso, Mathys Tel, Kota Takai and Mohammed Kudus.

Gibbs-White was scheduled to have a medical at Spurs around a fortnight ago (BBC), and if they're currently in the middle of a tense standoff with Forest, it is believed that Tottenham remain in pursuit of the 25-year-old.

Fabrizio Romano has said Spurs are still confident they can strike a deal for Gibbs-White, but in the meantime, reports continue to surround the potential addition of a new midfielder.

Tottenham have repeatedly been linked with a move for Bayern Munich ace Joao Palhinha for that role, but as things stand, it hasn't stretched beyond interest, contrary to some reports.

Interestingly, £150,000-per-week Atlético Madrid star Conor Gallagher is another target on their midfield shortlist.

Tottenham prioritise Conor Gallagher after Thomas Frank decision

Spurs were believed to be suitors for Gallagher before he opted to join Diego Simeone's side in La Liga last summer.

The England international went on to score four goals and register another six assists in 50 total appearances for Atlético during his debut season, including a strike against Real Madrid in the Champions League, and it is believed that Tottenham are keen on tempting him with a return to the Premier League.

According to reports from Spain, Tottenham have placed Gallagher at the "top of their list" of potential midfield reinforcements, after Frank decided that the 25-year-old is a player he "needs" in north London.

Gallagher can play as a number six, traditional centre-midfielder and even as a left-winger when required, but it is currently unclear what the boyhood Chelsea supporter would think about joining an arch Blues rival.

"When we think of him we think of his youth, energy and intensity in the game. He also strikes the ball very well," Simeone told reporters about Gallagher before a match against Real Valladolid.

"It's never easy for players coming from England to adapt to the Spanish championship, to the language, he has competed very well in different places and in positions where he doesn't feel more comfortable.

"He will evolve, he has room for growth. He is very intense in offensive and defensive play, he brings a lot to us."

Tottenham are after a few more key summer signings before deadline day on September 1.

Preferably for new manager Thomas Frank, they'd secure their desired targets before taking on European champions PSG in their looming UEFA Super Cup final, but it is rarely that straightforward when it comes to Spurs.

The Lilywhites are currently embroiled in a lengthy transfer saga involving Morgan Gibbs-White, who was due to have a medical on July 11 before Nottingham Forest blocked the 25-year-old's move and threatened legal action against Spurs.

This has caused an unceremonious delay, but Tottenham are optimistic they can still sign Gibbs-White behind-the-scenes (Fabrizio Romano), even if they may have to wait a bit longer before announcing the England international as their fifth major signing of the summer after Kevin Danso, Mathys Tel, Kota Takai and Mohammed Kudus.

If Spurs' £60 million deal for Gibbs-White goes through, then it would take Daniel Levy's summer spending to around £172 million, providing they don't have to pay Forest more compensation to sweeten the deal.

“The end result is that to get this deal done, Tottenham are probably gonna have to negotiate with Nottingham Forest a fee that includes not just the £60m release clause, but a little extra to effectively buy themselves out of the dispute, or walk away," said Football Finance expert Stefan Borson to Football Insider.

“Now, we’ve seen in the past other teams have walked away. Of course, we know Liverpool walked away from Van Dijk and came back in January.

"I still think the most likely scenario is that Spurs are the only team that want to buy the player right now, that they’ll pay an extra, let’s say, £5-10m, maybe an extra £5m plus £5m, and the deal could get done. That would be the most likely outcome."

As well as Gibbs-White, Tottenham are targeting a new number six, with Bayern Munich midfielder Joao Palhinha on their list of potential targets, as reliably reported by Alasdair Gold.

The north Londoners are also contenders to sign Brentford striker Yoane Wissa, alongside Newcastle United and Forest, with the Congolese recently travelling to London for talks over his future (Ben Jacobs).

Tottenham's four-word transfer promise to Thomas Frank

Whatever the outcome of these pursuits, it appears Levy and co are very active in the market right now, which links in to an alleged promise they've made Frank about recruitment this summer.

According to Spanish news outlet Diario AS, Tottenham have given Frank an encouraging four-word message in regard to their transfer plans before 2025/2026 - simply stating "investment and more investment" - as quoted by the outlet.

This comes as Levy looks to make a "statement" to the rest of the Premier League this summer, which comes as a promising bit of news for supporters who are about to watch Frank's attempts to compete on multiple fronts.

They were once tipped for a 'sell to buy' summer at one stage, but their advancing talks over a stadium naming rights deal and rumoured cash injection from ENIC appear to have negated the need for high-profile players to depart.

Now, Frank is set to benefit, and as things stand, Levy is making good on the club's pledge.

Tottenham Hotspur are eyeing a high-profile player this summer, and one who's been seriously endorsed by the club's all-time top scorer, Harry Kane.

Spurs have already announced the signings of Mathys Tel on a permanent deal from Bayern Munich, Kota Takai in a J-League record £5 million move from Kawasaki Frontale and, of course, Mohammed Kudus from West Ham.

Kudus' transfer marked the end of a 14-year-long unofficial transfer embargo between Spurs and their London rivals, with the Ghanaian seriously impressing on his debut against Reading last weekend.

Nottingham Forest playmaker Morgan Gibbs-White was set to immediately follow Kudus to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and a medical was even scheduled for July 11 (BBC), but Nuno Espírito Santo's side blocked the transfer and threatened legal action for what they deem to be an unlawful approach.

Once the matter is resolved, Tottenham are hopeful that Gibbs-White will eventually seal his switch to N17, but the move has been significantly delayed.

In the meantime, it is reliably reported that Spurs are competing with Newcastle United and Forest to sign Brentford striker Yoane Wissa, who scored 20 goals in all competitions under Thomas Frank last season.

Despite the current abundance of holding midfielders in their squad, there are also suggestions that Tottenham are looking for another one, with £167,000-per-week Bayern Munich ace Joao Palhinha among their chief targets.

Palhinha endured a lacklustre debut campaign at Bayern last season after sealing his long-awaited move there in 2024.

The Portugal international - thanks to a combination of injuries, illness and suspension - eventually fell down Vincent Kompany's pecking order, and reports claim he could make a return to the Premier League already.

Tottenham are reported to have contacted Palhinha's agents, and while reliable journalist Alasdair Gold doesn't mention this, he does back up Spurs' interest in a piece for football.london.

Tottenham eyeing Joao Palhinha after Harry Kane praise

Gold states that Tottenham are targeting Palhinha and have the 30-year-old on their shortlist of potential midfield signings, but at least one of Yves Bissouma, Rodrigo Bentancur, Lucas Bergvall, Pape Matar Sarr and Archie Gray would need to depart first.

Amid Bissouma's links with a move to Turkey and inconsistent form, the Mali international appears their most likely candidate to make way for Palhinha.

Interestingly, Lilywhites legend Kane has already endorsed a possible Spurs swoop for the robust, tough-tackling number six, who was also called a "leader" by Marco Silva during his Fulham days.

Kane is on record calling the ex-Sporting CP star an "animal", citing his many tough battles against him.

"I think they suit our system really well," said Kane after Bayern signed Palhinha and Michael Olise last summer, via Florian Plettenberg.

"Palhinha is an animal in that defensive midfield role. I've had many battles against him.

"Michael's ability on the ball is fantastic. The way he moves, the way he goes around players - and his final product is at a high, high level. And he's still very young, so there's even more improvement to come."

Tottenham Hotspur’s pursuit of Morgan Gibbs-White this summer has already been one of the sagas of the window, with the Nottingham Forest star at the heart of the controversy.

Nearly two weeks ago now, the Lilywhites triggered the 25-year-old’s release clause within his contract, but that’s where the issue over the currently lies.

His clause was seen as a secret within his contract, leading to Nuno Espírito Santo’s side claiming Thomas Frank’s men made an illegal approach for the midfielder’s signature.

It now appears as though Forest have ceased all negotiations with Spurs, putting the deal in potential doubt, with the player himself expected to join the Reds squad on their pre-season tour.

As a result, other summer targets are now being considered by the hierarchy, as they look to back Frank in his quest for success during his first year at the helm.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer

Over the last couple of days, Atlético Madrid star Conor Gallagher has been touted as a potential option for Spurs in the midfield department during the current window.

It remains unclear how much a deal for the former Chelsea star would cost this summer, but the hierarchy have wasted no time in pursuing a move after making contact with the LaLiga side over a potential deal.

However, he’s not the only player currently on their radar this window, with Brentford star Yoane Wissa a player firmly in their sights, according to Ben Jacobs.

The journalist claims that the Lilywhites have been in talks with the Bees over a move for the 28-year-old, who registered 19 league goals during the 2024/25 season.

He also states that Newcastle United and Forest are in the race for his signature, but any deal could be an expensive one given his current £50m price tag.

Why Spurs’ £50m target would be a better signing than Gibbs-White

There’s no denying that, given his tally of 15 combined goals and assists in the Premier League last season, that Gibbs-White would be a tremendous addition for Spurs.

However, the current scenario could have repercussions such as a hefty fine or even a transfer embargo should the club be found guilty of their actions.

It’s also unclear what role he would play within Frank’s side, especially considering James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski have mainly operated in such a role in recent times.

A deep-lying option is more of a priority within the midfield department this summer, with a new talisman also needed to provide competition to Dominic Solanke.

The aforementioned scenarios would make Wissa an ideal option for Frank’s side this summer, not to mention he enjoyed his best-ever campaign under his guidance last time around.

When comparing his stats to those of current number nine Solanke, he’s managed to outperform him in key areas, showcasing why he’d be an excellent addition for the Lilywhites.

Wissa, who’s been labelled “remarkable” by journalist Zach Lowy, massively outscored the Englishman, whilst posting a better goal per shot on target rate - showcasing his clinical edge in front of goal.

He also managed to complete more of the passes he attempted, whilst also notching more key passes per 90, having the creative ability to allow players around him to thrive in North London.

The DR Congo star’s dominance is further reflected in his aerial success rate, winning more duels and subsequently offering Frank’s side a needed focal point.

£50m may appear to be a hefty fee for the 28-year-old, but given his recent withdrawal from Brentford’s pre-season tour, he could well be available for a cheaper fee.

If he can replicate his form across the capital with the Lilywhites, it would be a phenomenal pickup, landing a player who would certainly have more of an impact than Gibbs-White.

Tottenham Hotspur appear to be making some serious moves in the transfer market this summer, splashing the cash during Thomas Frank’s first window at the helm.

The Dane has been tasked with the challenge of making the Lilywhites consistent title challengers in the years ahead, with the ambition shown by the board backing such a vision.

They have already completed the £55m signing of Mohammed Kudus from West Ham United, with other big-money additions expected between now and the start of the season.

Morgan Gibbs-White has been another huge name touted with a big transfer to North London, even triggering the Nottingham Forest star’s £60m release clause in his contract.

Despite triggering such a clause, the Reds have blocked such a transfer from taking place, leading to multiple other Premier League forwards emerging on the Lilywhites’ shortlist.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new signings this summer

Tyler Dibling has once again appeared on Spurs’ radar this window, potentially being a shrewd addition given Southampton’s relegation from England’s top-flight.

However, despite dropping into the Championship, the Saints are currently demanding £55m to part ways with the teenager during the current transfer window.

Another name has emerged as a possible option for Frank this summer, in the form of Brentford striker Yoane Wissa, according to talkSPORT’s Alex Crook.

The journalist confirmed that the 28-year-old wants a move to join the Lilywhites this summer, once again linking up with Frank after scoring 19 league goals under the Dane last season.

He also states that the DR Congo international would be prepared to reject interest from Newcastle United in favour of a move across the capital, with a £50m transfer fee mooted.

Why Spurs’ £50m target could be their answer to Gyokeres

Viktor Gyokeres has been one of the most in-demand talents throughout the current transfer window, unsurprisingly so given his staggering goalscoring record at Sporting CP.

The Swedish international managed to net 54 goals in just 52 outings across all competitions last campaign, taking his tally of goals in Portugal to a whopping 97 in just 102 outings.

As a result of such form, the 27-year-old has been valued at £70m this summer, leading to strong interest from Manchester United, but he now looks set for a move to North London rivals Arsenal.

Such a deal will undoubtedly improve Mikel Arteta’s side in 2025/26, but questions have been asked around Gyokeres’ ability to impress in England’s top flight.

However, Frank’s side have the opportunity to land their own version of the Swede in a deal for Wissa, possessing a similar playstyle in being able to operate off the shoulder of the defender and handing the side that poacher instinct in front of goal.

When comparing the pair’s stats from the recent campaign, the DR Congo star managed to outperform him in multiple areas, handing the side an added threat within the final third.

Wissa, who’s been labelled “sensational” by Sky Sports’ Mark McAdam, may have notched fewer goals last season, but did post a better goal per shot on target rate - showcasing he’s more clinical with the chances that fall his way in the final third.

His goalscoring ability is one thing, but the Brentford star has also demonstrated his creativity, completing more passes into the final third per 90, along with a higher pass completion rate - handing others around him the chance to improve their tallies.

Despite his lack of height, Wissa has showcased he’s a better aerial option than Gyokeres, winning more of the battles he’s entered, subsequently handing Frank’s side an excellent all-round option within attacking areas.

Whilst £50m may appear a hefty fee for a 28-year-old forward, it could prove to be excellent business for a player who’s about to enter his prime years - potentially getting even better in the near future.

If he can carry over his form across the capital to North London, it would be a sensational addition and one that could push the club closer to their goal of battling for league titles.

Tottenham Hotspur will have to balance the books soon by making key player sales, especially with the plethora of non-locally trained players in their squad, which could result in them having to submit a weakened Champions League squad.

Due to UEFA rules, Spurs require at least eight 'locally trained' players to be named in their 25-man list, and if they cannot meet this quota, then their total of A-list players will be reduced to make up the deficit.

While Morgan Gibbs-White's potential arrival - which has now been delayed due to legal complications - could have a positive impact on this, given he came through the Wolves academy, their recent signing of Mohammed Kudus means that the north Londoners currently boast around 24 non-locally trained players in their current squad, even if this does include the likes of Manor Solomon, Bryan Gil, Yang-min Hyeok, Luka Vuskovic and Kota Takai.

Taking this into account, The Telegraph reports that Tottenham will need to sell at least one player this summer, and there are plenty of candidates.

Gil and Solomon are very likely to be sold after spending 2024/2025 out on loan at Girona and Leeds United respectively, with the former already confirming his intention to leave N17 in the coming weeks.

"That's something my agent will tell me where things are going, but they [Spurs] told me, and I told them, that the best thing is for us not to continue being linked to Tottenham," said Gil to Estadio Deportivo in April.

"They bet on me when I was young, and they've treated me fairly well, but if I have to go back there, I'll focus on giving my best as always. I'm calm because no one can have a bad word to say about me not being professional. Without playing, I've always trained well, I've done what I had to do, so whatever has to happen, will happen. We'll see where we are next year."

Son Heung-min has entered the final 12 months of his contract and may be sold by Spurs, according to recent reports, with Yves Bissouma also attracting interest from Turkey.

However, another option could be injury-plagued striker Richarlison.

Richarlison likely to leave Tottenham as Vasco de Gama phone him

They're very unlikely to make a substantial fee back off the £60 million they paid Everton to sign the Brazil striker in 2022, but Tottenham's signings of Gibbs-White and Kudus will only push him further down the attacking pecking order.

Spurs are also still interested in signing Brentford star Yoane Wissa, and if they were to sensationally bring in the Bees star too, it would surely draw the curtain on Richarlison's north London career.

The 28-year-old, barring a fine purple patch under Ange Postecoglou midway through 2023/2024, has found life very difficult at Spurs overall - with journalist Leonardo Lacerda, via Bolavip, sharing that clubs in Brazil could offer him a route back home.

Lacerda is quoted saying that Vasco de Gama president, Pedrinho, has personally phoned Richarlison to gauge the possibility of a transfer, but the ex-Watford man also has admirers in Saudi Arabia.

“It's happening! President Pedrinho, accompanied by a member of the Vasco leadership, contacted Richarlison directly through a phone call," said Lacerda.

"The goal was to get a closer look at the striker's situation, as he's unlikely to remain at Tottenham next season. In addition to Vasco, the striker is attracting interest from Fluminense, Flamengo, and Palmeiras. Two Saudi Arabian clubs have also entered the fray—Al Ahli and Al Ittihad."