Football FanCast

Tottenham are believed to be working on a deal to hijack Nottingham Forest and make a late-window January signing, right after Spurs secured their place in the Champions League last 16.

Spurs sealed their passage into the knockout stages with a commanding 2-0 triumph over Eintracht Frankfurt on Wednesday evening, finishing fourth in the league phase to bypass the playoff rounds.

The victory provides Thomas Frank's embattled side with rare European respite amid their troubling Premier League form, which currently sees Spurs languishing in 14th, just eight points clear of the relegation zone.

Their continental dominance—winning all four home fixtures in the competition—stands in stark contrast to domestic struggles that have yielded just two victories from 12 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this term.

Randal Kolo Muani delivered the crucial breakthrough against his former employers, converting just 66 seconds after the interval following Cristian Romero's clever flick from a Xavi Simons delivery.

Dominic Solanke extinguished any Frankfurt hopes with 13 minutes remaining, capitalising on defensive hesitation to slot cleanly past goalkeeper Kauã Santos.

The result grants Tottenham favourable second-leg home advantage throughout the knockout rounds, facing either Juventus, Atlético Madrid, Club Brugge or Galatasaray next.

However, Kolo Muani's decisive contribution has reportedly complicated Juventus' intensifying pursuit of the striker.

Thursday apparently represents a pivotal juncture in negotiations between the Italian giants and Tottenham, with the Bianconeri desperately seeking attacking reinforcements before Monday's transfer deadline.

Juventus director Giorgio Chiellini confirmed their interest, stating the Frenchman performed admirably during his previous loan spell in Turin.

Reports suggest Juve are proposing a straightforward loan to snatch him away from N17, though Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio says Wednesday's heroics could make Spurs reluctant to sanction his departure.

Other media sources, like Marca's Matteo Moretto, report that Kolo Muani is keen on a return to Juve and informed Tottenham of that stance before their win over Frankfurt.

Tottenham 'working to close' Jean-Philippe Mateta

Now, despite Nottingham Forest's well-documented talks for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, it is believed by some that Spurs could hijack their talks for the Frenchman to replace Kolo Muani.

Italian reporter Orazio Accomando, via X, reports that Tottenham are 'working to close' a deal for Mateta while Juve are expected to have fresh talks over Kolo Muani today.

Mateta presents Tottenham with compelling arguments both for and against his acquisition.

The 28-year-old offers immediate Premier League experience and a proven record. As of November 2025, he was also outscoring everyone in the league except Erling Haaland and Mohammed Salah since Oliver Glasner's first game in charge. (Squawka).

The New York Times' Rory Smith even likened him to the original Ronaldo in 2024, calling Mateta an 'extraordinary' forward.

His aerial prowess and physical presence would provide Frank with a different option to that of Solanke and Richarlison, with the latter poised to leave in the near future.

However, significant concerns exist too.

Tim Sherwood took aim at what he described as a "disgraceful" refereeing call, which could have cost Tottenham Hotspur against Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League.

Tottenham battle past Frankfurt to reach last 16

Randal Kolo Muani put an eventful couple of days behind him with a goal to send Tottenham through to the Champions League last-16 with a 2-0 win at Eintracht Frankfurt.

The Paris St Germain loanee was fine and despite a late arrival in Germany, he grabbed the crucial 47th-minute opener against his old team before Dominic Solanke added a second to ease the pressure on under-fire boss Thomas Frank, with Tottenham remarkably able to finish fourth in the league phase of the competition.

Kolo Muani got the nod against his old club and despite being heavily booed, his first involvement nearly produced the opener.

After getting in down the left, his cross was spilled by Kaua Santos and Xavi Simons fired home, but away celebrations were cut short with Destiny Udogie adjudged to have committed a foul in the build-up.

Tottenham regrouped but not long after Joao Palhinha had seen a header tipped wide, results elsewhere meant the Premier League club had dropped to ninth in the league phase.

A flurry of chances followed with Udogie inexplicably unable to get a touch on a Kolo Muani cross with the goal at his mercy before a smart turn and shot by Wilson Odobert from 20 yards smashed against the inside of a post.

The opener soon arrived, nonetheless. And just 66 seconds into the second period.

A set-piece did the trick with a short free-kick routine able to create space for Simons, who chipped in for Cristian Romero and his header found Kolo Muani to bundle home from close range. It was only Kolo Muani’s third goal for Tottenham in 24 appearances.

Then came the job of Solanke from the bench. The forward secured Spurs’ place in the last-16, running through and drilling the ball into the bottom corner to earn a fifth victory in the competition and secure fourth spot.

Sherwood slams "disgraceful" refereeing decision

It didn't all go Tottenham's way, despite their eventual victory, and that was down to a frustrating refereeing call in the first-half. The Lilywhites thought they had the lead inside the opening 10 minutes, only for Xavi Simons' effort to be ruled out courtesy of Destiny Udogie's foul in the build-up.

Former manager Sherwood had his say on the call on Sky Sports, dubbing it a "disgraceful" decision.

"It's a disgraceful decision to rule out the Tottenham goal. It would never have been ruled out in the Premier League."

Eventually, Spurs got the job done despite the contentious refereeing call, but Frank will be well aware that he needs all the luck he can get in North London right now.

Tottenham have just made an approach to sign a Bayern Munich star with the 'next few hours' crucial, according to a report this afternoon.

Spurs' January transfer business has been fairly modest so far, despite Thomas Frank's struggles in north London, with just two signings completed as the under-pressure boss seeks reinforcements to salvage a disappointing campaign.

The Lilywhites moved decisively for Conor Gallagher earlier in the window, securing the midfielder from Atletico Madrid in a £35 million deal.

The former Chelsea man brings Premier League experience and athleticism to Frank's engine room, though questions linger whether Spurs continue addressing the wrong profile—signing combative midfielders rather than the creative playmaker/winger they've desperately lacked.

Tottenham also completed the £13 million signing of Brazilian left-back Souza from Santos, with the 19-year-old arriving on a long-term contract.

The former Brazil U-17 international provides competition for injury-prone Destiny Udogie after Ben Davies suffered a broken ankle, though the teenager may represent a longer-term investment rather than an immediate first-team upgrade.

However, Tottenham's most significant January activity may be their failures rather than successes.

Liverpool pulled out of talks over Andy Robertson after preliminary negotiations for the Scotland captain, who was available for just £5 million.

The 31-year-old had been identified as experienced reinforcement for Frank's struggling defence, but Liverpool and Robertson have reconsidered the move.

According to journalist Ben Jacobs this week, Tottenham actually have a deal in principle to sign Robertson already agreed, but the Reds and the left-back are stalling until they can find a replacement, if they do.

It could be 'one to watch' in the final hours of January, according to Jacobs again, but for now, it is off the table.

Now, Spurs are moving on to other targets for the time being, and one of them is apparently Bayern star Leon Goretzka.

Tottenham make Wednesday approach to sign Leon Goretzka

According to Marca journalist Matteo Moretto, who regularly collaborates with Fabrizio Romano, Tottenham have made an approach for Goretzka today as they attempt to rival Atlético Madrid for his signature.

This contact has come in the last few hours, and in similarly quick fashion, Bayern are poised to make a decision on the midfielder's future 'in the next few hours'.

The 30-year-old's pedigree is pretty undeniable.

Goretzka boasts 292 Bayern Munich appearances, with 47 goals and 48 assists to boot, while collecting numerous Bundesliga titles and Champions League experience.

His box-to-box capabilities would address Tottenham's desperate need for midfield quality, offering creativity, control, tenacity and goalscoring threat from deep positions - attributes that Frank's struggling engine room sorely lacks.

Acquiring him in January prevents a summer bidding war when he becomes a free agent. His winning mentality and European pedigree could elevate Tottenham's standards, providing leadership in a squad desperately short on experience.

"Outstanding. It shows strength, maturity, but also extreme mentality and clarity of mind," said former teammate Sami Khedira on Goretzka's return to prominence.

"Publicly, he completely kept his mouth shut. Internally, from what we hear, he worked like a madman, and he's highly respected within the team.

"He stayed calm and fully convinced of his own qualities. He's a machine, huge respect for Leon. Through his exemplary behaviour, he has also sent a signal to Julian Nagelsmann"

However, Goretzka's astronomical £300,000-per-week wages represent a massive financial commitment that could cripple Tottenham's wage structure.

A veteran with his contract expiring, the German offers limited resale value and represents a short-term fix, but that didn't stop Spurs from going for Robertson.

He could be a very intriguing option, but a lot will depend on Bayern here.

Tottenham Hotspur have made some impressive dealings in recent years, but none more so than the signing of Dejan Kulusevski from Juventus back in January 2022.

The Swedish talent spent 18-months on loan before his £29m permanent deal became active, with such a move now looking to be a bargain nearly four years since his arrival.

He’s racked up over 140 appearances between the two spells, subsequently scoring 25 times whilst laying on 30 assists - with his best season coming under Ange Postecoglou last time around.

However, he’s been out with a knee injury since May 2025, with current boss Thomas Frank unable to call upon the 25-year-old to help save his job in North London.

The hierarchy now have just a couple of days to improve the current squad before the window closes, with numerous players appearing on their shortlist at present.

Spurs prepare late move to land £50m sensation

Over the last couple of days, Spurs have been named as one of the clubs interested in a move to land Manchester United talent Joshua Zirkzee this January.

The Dutchman has also appeared on the radar of Crystal Palace over recent days, with the Red Devils currently wanting to keep hold of the attacker until at least the summer.

However, it hasn’t stopped Frank’s men from reaching out and making contact with Michael Carrick’s men over a possible deal before the window slams shut.

Zirkzee isn’t alone on their shortlist ahead of the closure of the window, with Monaco star Maghnes Akliouche another option currently being considered by the hierarchy.

According to TEAMtalk, the Lilywhites are considering a late move for the attacker, who’s already registered eight combined goals and assists across all competitions.

The report also states that the Ligue 1 outfit don’t want to lose the 23-year-old this window, but could do potential business if a £50m fee is presented this month.

It also confirms the Lilywhites have constantly been monitoring in recent months, even being spotted watching him in Ligue 1 over the last couple of weeks.

Why Akliouche would be Spurs’ best January deal since Kulusevski

In recent years, Spurs have often splashed the cash during the January window to try and save their season, with Pedro Porro joining the club back in January 2023.

The right-back has been a constant under various managers since his arrival, as seen by his tally of 139 appearances and 34 goal contributions in the last three years.

Over the last couple of seasons, the activity in the winter window has continued, with the likes of Kevin Danso, Antonin Kinsky and Radu Dragusin all making the move to North London.

However, despite the big-money being spent on the aforementioned talents, none of which have been able to reach the levels set by Kulusevski in the Premier League.

A deal for Akliouche could certainly triumph such a transfer, especially if he can replicate the numbers that he’s produced during his current campaign at Monaco.

At just 23, the attacking midfielder has bags of time to reach the next level in his career with the Lilywhites, but it’s safe to say, he’s already made a fine start to his career in France.

His tally of eight combined goals and assists to date showcases the talent he possesses in the final third, with his underlying figures further reaffirming the quality he has in his locker.

Akliouche, who’s been dubbed “incredible” by Eduardo Hagn, has created 1.4 chances per 90 this campaign, with 0.4 of which being defined as big chances.

Such figures showcase his talent to create carnage for the opposition in the final third, with the latter of the aforementioned figures ranking him in the top 15% of all players in the division.

He’s also completed 85% of the passes he’s attempted, with 4.3 of the passes he’s made per 90 being made into the final third of the pitch - reaffirming his talent in attacking areas.

However, despite his ability to provide for those around him, Akliouche has also showcased his ability to go alone in front of goal, subsequently placing 31% of his shots on target this season.

Other stats, such as 29% crosses completed and 48% dribbles completed, also highlight his incredible ability with the ball at his feet - subsequently backing up Hagn’s comments on the star.

£50m would be another statement of intent from the Spurs hierarchy, but it’s a deal that could see them land a versatile attacking option in their hunt to rise up the Premier League.

Given Monaco’s stance on the youngster, a deal could be somewhat tricky to complete, but it’s one that the hierarchy must work tirelessly on to find a solution.

Should he make the move to North London and get anywhere near the levels of Kulusevski, such a deal would be one of the best in recent times - subsequently setting the side up for future success.

Tottenham Hotspur are now leading the race to sign a new forward, and they are willing to trigger the £35m release clause in his contract.

Thomas Frank has now confirmed that both Randal Kolo Muani and Wilson Odobert weren't injured after being involved in a car crash, saying yesterday: "Kolo Muani and Wilson Odobert are both fine.

"Unfortunately they were both involved in a minor accident … everyone else involved in that accident was fine. It was a tyre blowing up and so the two of them are a little bit delayed. But they will land later tonight. I haven’t spoken to them personally yet. The first message is that they are fine and nothing happened. I fully expect both to be available for tomorrow."

However, the manager only has 11 outfield players available for selection this evening, with the Lilywhites travelling to Germany to take on Eintracht Frankfurt in the Champions League.

As such, there could be some new arrivals before the February 2nd deadline, and a new striker is of interest, with Manchester United's Joshua Zirkzee and Crystal Palace star Jean-Philippe Mateta among the targets.

According to a report from Spain, Tottenham are also keen to strengthen their options out wide, having set their sights on Osasuna's Victor Munoz, and they are now leading the race for the former Real Madrid man's signature.

Madrid had been planning to re-sign the 22-year-old, but Spurs could pose them a problem, as they are now willing to trigger the €40m (£35m) release clause in his contract.

Several other unnamed clubs are in the race for Munoz, having exceeded expectations since arriving at Osasuna during the previous summer transfer window.

"Game-changer" Munoz impressing in Spain

Journalist Jonay Amaro has taken to X to laud the Barcelona-born winger for his performances this season, describing him as a "game-changer" earlier this month.

The Spanish forward has displayed his versatility by featuring on both wings and through the middle, and he has chipped in with four goals and four assists in 23 matches in La Liga and the Copa del Rey.

Earlier this month, the Osasuna star put in a fantastic all-round performance in a 3-2 victory against Real Oviedo, scoring a stoppage-time winner, while also displaying his defensive attributes.

Tottenham clearly need to improve their squad depth, having struggled on the injury front this season, but there are some doubts over whether Munoz would be a good addition to the squad.

Although the versatile forward has put in some impressive performances this season, he is yet to prove himself over a sustained period of time, featuring just four times for the senior Real Madrid side before moving to Osasuna, so Spurs may be better off targeting a forward with more top-level experience.

Tottenham Hotspur are currently a club in a precarious position, with a real possibility of last season’s Premier League struggles coming back to haunt them.

Thomas Frank was tasked with leading the Lilywhites back up England’s top-flight, after Ange Postecoglou could only secure a 17th-placed finish last campaign.

However, the Dane has massively struggled in the role over recent weeks, as seen by the current run of five league games without a win - subsequently drawing last time out against relegation-threatened Burnley.

As a result of the dismal form in recent matches, the club sit in 14th position, just eight points clear of the relegation zone, with a real possibility of last season’s failures rearing their head again.

If Frank is to maintain his job in North London, he may need backing from the hierarchy, with numerous positions in desperate need of reinforcements before the window closes.

The need for a new centre-forward at Spurs has become more evident week after week, with current top scorer Richarlison set to miss numerous more weeks of action through injury.

Fellow centre-forward Randal Kolo Muani is another player that Frank currently has at his disposal, but the Frenchman has failed to score in the Premier League, with Juventus keen on re-signing him this month.

As a result, Dominic Solanke remains the only senior striker available to Frank at present, but he too has had his injury struggles, subsequently missing over three months of action before his return a couple of weeks ago.

Given the situation, it’s no surprise to see the hierarchy making moves to land a new striker, with Manchester United star Joshua Zirkzee just one of the names on their shortlist.

According to TEAMtalk, the Lilywhites have made a shock approach to Michael Carrick’s men over a possible deal to land the Dutch international this month.

The report states that Frank’s men aren’t alone in that regard, with London rivals Crystal Palace also starting talks to work out the possibility of a transfer for the 24-year-old.

However, the article further confirms that the Red Devils aren’t looking to offload the forward this month, that’s despite the reported £100k-per-week earner starting just four league games this campaign.

Why Zirkzee would be Frank’s next Toney at Spurs

Over the years, boss Frank has been blessed with countless attacking talents, but none more so than Ivan Toney, with the pair working wonders together during their time at Brentford.

The duo spent four years working together at the Bees, with the Englishman constantly producing the goods in front of goal - as seen by his remarkable goal tally.

Toney registered 72 goals in his 141 appearances for the Bees, the most of any player during the Dane’s reign across the capital, subsequently showcasing his importance to the Dane’s plans.

Given the manager’s struggles at Spurs this campaign, he will no doubt be wanting a player of the Englishman’s quality in the final third to help get him out of the current mess.

A deal for Toney appears off-limits given his mammoth wages in Saudi Arabia, which could allow Zirkzee to become the Dane’s next version of the talisman.

Whilst many fans may be questioning a move for Zirkzee given his lack of success at Old Trafford, his underlying stats showcase the quality he possesses - subsequently having the tools needed to emulate Toney.

The Dutchman, who’s been dubbed “sensational” by Liam Canning, may have registered three combined goal contributions, but he has posted an impressive tally of 1.2 shots on target per 90 at an accuracy rate of 40%.

Such numbers showcase he’s often been unlucky within the final third during 2025/26, with the opposition goalkeeper often denying him from increasing his goal tally.

His all-round talent with the ball at his feet is reflected in his tally of 50% dribbles completed, whilst creating 1.5 chances per 90 this season - highlighting his ability to drop deep when needed.

Toney often utilised such a skill when plying his trade for Brentford, but he also managed to make himself a poacher, with the vast majority of his strikes coming inside the 18-yard box.

Zirkzee has managed to match that this campaign, subsequently scoring both his goals in such an area, whilst registering 6.2 touches in the opposition box per 90 - which demonstrates his poacher instinct.

His tally of 2.9 aerials won per 90 and a 76% pass accuracy showcase his hold-up play in the final third, with the 24-year-old undoubtedly ticking all of Frank’s boxes for a centre-forward.

However, as previously mentioned, United don’t want to sanction a move for the Dutchman this month, which could make such a deal tricky to complete before the deadline.

Despite such a setback, the Lilywhites hierarchy should be working tirelessly to try and get a deal completed, with the striker having all the tools to succeed in North London.

Should he get anywhere near the level of Toney under Frank, the move would be a phenomenal one for both parties, with Zirkzee able to catapult the club up the Premier League table.

Noise regarding Randal Kolo Muani's potential departure from Tottenham Hotspur is gathering pace. The January transfer window shuts in less than a week, and the Frenchman is angling for a loan switch to Juventus in Italy.

Few of a Spurs persuasion would lose any sleep over that one, except maybe Thomas Frank, who has struggled to get a tune out of his attacking options this season and needs every piece of artillery at his disposal.

Of course, were Kolo Muani to leave, it would increase the pressure on ENIC Group moving to sign a replacement, and Spurs might just have such a player in mind.

Spurs lining up Kolo Muani replacement

Last summer, Tottenham missed out on a slew of transfer targets, the most salient of which being Eberechi Eze, who came close to moving to N17 from Crystal Palace before Arsenal hijacked the move.

Tottenham ended up signing Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig for about £52m, but that one must still rankle.

With James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski out injured but working toward reemerging from the infirmary, signing another big-money central playmaker is less important than signing a top goalscorer, should Kolo Muani leave.

And according to TEAMtalk, Tottenham are said to be 'exploring' a move for Jean-Philippe Mateta as they look to strengthen their frontline this winter, though the wantaway French forward is currently slated for a move to Nottingham Forest who are in talks to acquire him.

The report further outlines that Spurs are 'keeping a close eye on the situation' and are asking the Eagles that they are kept informed of any developments that occur between now and the closure of the window next Monday.

The Eagles have stuck by their £40m asking price, and while that's a hefty outlay, Mateta is a proven Premier League goalscorer who would add a much-needed dimension to the Tottenham attack.

Why Mateta would be perfect for Spurs

Mateta is 28 and he has bloomed late as a top-class goalscoring option. But he has bloomed. Earlier this season, analyst and Como scout Ben Mattinson said that he has become "one of the best strikers in the Premier League".

There is very little fluff about the Les Bleus star's game. He scores goals. His physicality and timing and presence leave little to be desired.

Described as a "goal machine" by reporter Will Pickworth, Mateta would offer Spurs consistency in the final third, with his returns in front of goal worth paying £40m for, as his track record in the Premier League would tell you.

There would also be a sense of vindication, a feeling of justice in signing one of Crystal Palace's talismanic players after coming so close last summer. In this, the Lilywhites would land their own version of Eze.

Mateta is a number nine, whereas Eze is a fleet-footed playmaker, adept in the middle or out on the left wing. There is a certain similarity to be drawn to this deal, though, with Tottenham potentially hijacking a Premier League rival for this in-demand Palace star.

The need for an Eze-like talent remains strong on the white half of north London, but with Kolo Muani mooted to be leaving, a Mateta-shaped opening has been drawn to the forefront.

Whether Spurs are too late remains to be seen. Forest's interest is more advanced. However, the allure of remaining in London and spearheading a team with a greater chance of competing at the top over the next several years - and beyond - may well swing the odds in Frank's favour.

Mateta would be assigned to a different berth than Eze, but the significance of his arrival could actually outdo that of Eze, who has struggled at the Emirates this season.

Tottenham need goals, and Mateta knows how to score them.

Tottenham Hotspur now have a genuine interest in signing an "amazing" new striker, amid a fresh update on Randal Kolo Muani's future.

Spurs eyeing new striker amid poor form

After finishing 17th in the Premier League last season, Tottenham were hoping to kick on in the Thomas Frank era, but they have continued to massively underperform, currently sitting in 14th place.

The 2-0 Champions League victory against Borussia Dortmund has bought Frank some more time, but his side were unable to make it two wins on the spin at the weekend, recording a 2-2 draw against Burnley, which extends the winless run in the Premier League to five games.

The manager bemoaned his side's inability to take their opportunities against the Clarets, saying: "I think we had a strong end with strong character. We had a lot of offensive subs and go to get the equalizer and we had three or four very big chances, score on one of them, but this is a game where we create a lot of things, do more than enough to win the game."

Kolo Muani was once again unable to get on the scoresheet, and with the Frenchman now without a single goal or assist in his opening 15 Premier League outings, he could be heading for the exit door.

That is according to a report from TEAMtalk, which states Juventus are now pushing to sign the centre-forward, with Tottenham now weighing up whether to sanction a departure this month.

However, the north Londoners are only willing to let the 27-year-old leave if they are able to bring in a replacement, and they now hold a genuine interest in signing Crystal Palace star Jean-Philippe Mateta, who is available for £40m this month.

There is a belief the Frenchman could be a good fit in Frank's system, but Spurs will have to fend off interest from elsewhere, with Nottingham Forest recently opening talks with Palace, having agreed personal terms.

"Amazing" Mateta could be Kolo Muani upgrade

Kolo Muani has flattered to deceive at Tottenham, scoring a brace against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, but failing to make an impact domestically.

Mateta, on the other hand, has proven himself in the Premier League over an extended period, chipping in with 46 goals and nine assists in 153 top-flight outings for Palace.

Oliver Glasner had high praise for the 28-year-old's finishing and ability off the ball after a 2-0 victory against Manchester United last season, saying: "We don't always talk because he knows what we demand of him. With his two goals today, he is amazing in the box.

"He has the feeling that a number nine must have in the box. He makes so many runs where he doesn't get the ball. You need to suffer as a striker because you make so many runs where you don't get the ball. He gets the reward and it decides the game for us."

That said, Mateta hasn't been in the best of form, bagging just one goal in his last ten Premier League outings, so while there are clear signs he could be an upgrade on Kolo-Muani, it would be risky for Spurs to shell out £40m.

Tottenham Hotspur have now submitted a shock enquiry to sign an "insane" £105k-a-week striker, who is pushing to leave his club this month.

Spurs keen on new striker despite Solanke's return

Dominic Solanke has been on the treatment table for almost the entire season, having been suffering with an ankle injury, but the English striker made an instant impact upon his return, scoring in the 2-0 victory against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League.

With Richarlison, Randal Kolo Muani and Mathys Tel also on the books, Thomas Frank has plenty of options at striker, although the latter player is now pushing for an exit this month, having been left out of the Champions League squad.

Kolo Muani has also failed to make an impact since joining on loan from Paris Saint-Germain, with the Frenchman still searching for his first Premier League goal, so it would perhaps make sense to bring in a new striker, and a number of targets have been identified.

Juventus star Dusan Vlahovic and Manchester City's Omar Marmoush are among the options, but the Egyptian is not the only Premier League striker on the shortlist, with the north Londoners recently bursting into the race for Crystal Palace's Jean-Philippe Mateta.

According to a report from TEAMtalk, Tottenham have also joined the race for Manchester United striker Joshua Zirkzee, submitting a shock enquiry over a deal for the Dutchman, who is desperate for a move this month.

Zirkzee is pushing to leave Man United, but his current employers have been reluctant to sanction a departure thus far, after setting a relatively hefty asking price of £35m last month.

The centre-forward is hoping United will soften their stance before the February 2nd deadline, and should they be willing to let him leave, he may have a number of options to choose from, with Crystal Palace, Juventus and AS Roma also being named as potential suitors.

"Insane" Zirkzee would be risky signing for Tottenham

Despite being lauded for his "insane" quality by scout Ben Mattinson, the 24-year-old has struggled to make much of an impact since joining Man United, and his record in front of goal isn't particularly impressive across his career.

The former Bayern Munich striker has found it difficult to hold down a place in Man United's starting XI this season, but an average of 0.37 non-penalty goals per 90 in the Premier League ranks him second in the squad, behind only Bryan Mbeumo.

That perhaps suggests the £105k-a-week striker could be capable of scoring more goals, if he were to receive more game time, but he would be a risky signing for Tottenham, given his overall return since signing for the Red Devils.

As such, there are probably better options on Spurs' shortlist, with Vlahovic more prolific in front of goal, netting 90 goals in 215 Serie A outings.

Tottenham have reached an agreement in principle to sign a Premier League star as manager Thomas Frank now waits for the green-light to finalise a deal, according to a new update.

Spurs set for busy end to January with Frank under pressure

After rescuing a 2-2 draw at Burnley last weekend, courtesy of Cristian Romero's last-minute equaliser, the pressure remains on Frank to turn around what has been a very disappointing season.

The Lilywhites are closer to the drop zone than they are a top four finish and qualification for the Champions League next season, despite spending around £171 million last summer and winning the Europa League in May.

Spurs' domestic form has been truly dire, winning just seven of their 23 Premier League games so far, and you can make a serious case that the club's European form is the only thing keeping Frank in work.

The Lewis family, Johan Lange and Vinai Venkatesham have attempted to back the under-fire Dane with fresh squad upgrades this month, with England international Conor Gallagher and highly-rated left-back Souza joining Spurs for a combined £48 million.

Next on the agenda is a new forward and potential replacement for Ben Davies, whose career in north London is now essentially 'over' after his serious injury recently (Paul O'Keefe).

The veteran left-back is poised to depart on a free this summer after playing what was likely his final game for Tottenham against West Ham, and he's even a doubt for the World Cup should Wales qualify.

To succeed Davies, Frank's side opened talks with Liverpool over a surprise deal for Scotland and Anfield legend Andrew Robertson last week.

The £160,000-per-week star, who has won multiple Premier League titles, a Champions League winners medal whilst making 364 appearances for Liverpool, is out of contract at the end of the season.

Spurs pushed forward their planned summer attempt to sign Robertson this month, in light of Davies' injury, though negotiations recently hit a snag with the move stalling, at least for now.

Tottenham agree deal in principle for Andy Robertson

According to talkSPORT and GiveMeSport reporter Ben Jacobs, the transfer isn't totally off, contradicting reports elsewhere.

Tottenham have apparently agreed a deal in principle for Robertson, worth around £5 million, but they're currently waiting for both Liverpool and the player himself to give their final green-light.

The transfer hinges on one key factor, Arne Slot bringing in a replacement, which they're struggling to do right now.

Nevertheless, it is still 'one to watch' for Spurs in the final days of January.

"The terms of Andy Robertson’s move from Liverpool to Tottenham are agreed in principle for around £5m including add-ons," Jacobs said on social media.

"However, there is no sign off from Liverpool or Robertson yet. Liverpool will only sell, and Robertson give a green light to move, if LFC can bring in a replacement. Liverpool have struggled to get Kostas Tsimikas because there is no recall clause in his Roma loan. Roma will only sanction his exit if they find a left-back replacement. Roma had a £7m bid rejected for David Møller Wolfe and continue to explore other options.

"Liverpool and Robertson relaxed about the situation, but if Roma find a left-back, Spurs' move for the Scotland international could be back on. If not, Robertson will stay at Anfield. Robertson's professionalism has been noted having been informed earlier this week the move to Spurs, originally planned for after the UCL game against Qarabag, is not on at present. One to watch in the final days of the window in case Roma sign a new left-back"

Securing Robertson for £5 million as an heir to Davies would be a shrewd move by the club given the latter's pedigree, top-level experience and winning mentality.

As Frank waits for Roma to trigger the transfer domino effect, all eyes instead turn to their pursuit of a needed alternative attacking option.