Football FanCast

The supporters of Tottenham Hotspur will undoubtedly have a sense of excitement building among the fanbase, as they start a new era in the 2025/26 campaign.

Thomas Frank is set to lead the side in North London, hoping to build on the Europa League triumph they achieved at the end of the previous season.

Many may have seen the dismissal of Ange Postecoglou as harsh given the European success, but his side’s lack of quality in the Premier League led to his departure.

The Dane will be looking to avoid suffering a similar fate, needing to strike a balance between success in the league whilst also being competitive in the Champions League.

However, if the new boss is to be a success during his maiden campaign in the role, he will undoubtedly need backing from the hierarchy within the transfer window.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer

In the last couple of days, Spurs have made their opening offer to West Ham United for the potential signing of talented forward Mohammed Kudus - but their bid was immediately rejected.

However, they’re set to make another offer in the coming days, with the new boss wanting to accelerate a deal for the Ghanaian attacker this window.

Despite the move for the 24-year-old, another Premier League forward has emerged on their shortlist in recent days in Rodrigo Muniz, according to Brazilian outlet BolaVIP.

They claim that a £32m bid has been made for the Fulham striker after he scored eight times in England’s top flight throughout the 2024/25 campaign.

It also states that the Lilywhites will face stiff competition from Leeds United, after the newly promoted side made an offer for his services earlier this window.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be Frank’s answer to Haaland

Erling Haaland is a player who’s constantly tormented countless backlines within the Premier League, scoring endless goals for Manchester City over the last few years.

The Norwegian moved to the Etihad back in the summer of 2022 and has since scored 124 times in his 146 appearances - a simply staggering record in the modern day.

He’s registered four goals in his six appearances against the Lilywhites, often causing the club countless issues, with the fanbase undoubtedly wishing they had their own version of the forward.

However, talents like Haaland don’t come around very often, and if they do, they will likely cost a small fortune - especially given the money in the current climate.

They could be about to land their own version of the talisman with Muniz this summer, with the Brazilian labelled as a similar player to the City star by FBref.

Whilst he’s undoubtedly been massively outscored throughout 2024/25, he’s managed to outperform Haaland in numerous key areas, showcasing what an excellent addition he’d be to Frank’s side this summer.

Muniz, who’s been labelled as “one of the best strikers in the Premier League” by teammate Willian, has registered a better goal per shot on target rate - demonstrating his clinical edge in front of goal.

He’s also registered more progressive passes per 90, with more passes completed into the final third, having the ability to provide others around him with chances in attacking areas.

The Fulham star has also completed more take-ons per 90, whilst also winning more aerial duels, offering Frank an all-round option at the top end of the pitch that he will likely desire.

It’s unclear if Marco Silva’s side will accept the latest offer for Muniz’s signature, but it’s evident that, from the stats produced, he would be an excellent option for Spurs.

If he can replicate the levels produced by Haaland over the last couple of seasons, it would be a superb signing and one that could catapult the club up the table next campaign.

Tottenham Hotspur's rooted strategy in signing exciting young talents and developing them into high-class players capable of thriving in the Premier League preceded the glittery early days of Ange Postecoglou's tenure.

But perhaps the Londoners lacked a bit of experience to help guide them through the stormy spells any season will bring. The lowly top-flight finish ended Postecoglou's frenzied spell at the helm, a two-year stint that elicited every range of emotion from the Spurs faithful and culminated with triumph in the Europa League, thus restoring Tottenham's place in the Champions League.

While the Lilywhites have created a foundation with their historic victory over Manchester United, it's crucial that the secured silverware is used as a springboard for sustained success over the coming years.

In order to do this, Tottenham are going to need to hit the mark with their transfer priorities, piecing a team together that is fit for purpose at the highest level of the Premier League.

Spurs' transfer priorities this summer

Uncertainty continues to reign over Cristian Romero's future in the English capital. The Argentina centre-back is being chased by Atletico Madrid, who are willing to spend around £60m to bring him over to La Liga.

Frank is desperate to keep hold of his defensive anchor. However, the Danish tactician does seem keen on bolstering his ranks with a slick attacking full-back - the £45m-rated Antonee Robinson is on the radar - and a winger to replace Heung-min Son, should the iconic captain leave.

While he wouldn't have strictly been a direct replacement, the powers that be down at N17 were desperate to sign Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo as Tottenham's new goalscoring winger supreme, but he's rejected advances from all but United and is edging closer to a transfer to Old Trafford.

Midfield is in less need of reinforcements, but the pursuit of Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze denotes an interest in signing a creative midfielder to contest for a starting berth with the likes of James Maddison.

However, with Eze fixed in Arsenal's sights, Daniel Levy seems to have shifted his attention elsewhere.

Spurs join race for sought-after midfielder

According to Caught Offside, Tottenham have joined the race for SL Benfica midfielder Orkun Kokcu, who is anticipated to be available this summer for the right price.

Kokcu would fetch a €40m (£34m) fee, having impressed across his two terms with Benfica. Spurs are alongside Manchester United, Tottenham and Inter Milan in their interest; however, the player is thought to favour a move to Premier League champions Liverpool.

The 24-year-old worked under Arne Slot at Feyenoord, but Frank's new project, offering the promise of Champions League football, could see the Londoners sign an exciting new creative presence.

Why Spurs wants Orkun Kokcu

Kokcu is still young in his professional career, but he has already accomplished so much. Joining Benfica from Feyenoord for around €30m (£25m) in June 2023, he's chalked up 19 goals and 22 assists over 98 appearances in all competitions.

Once heralded as "one of the best midfielders in the country" by football legend Jaap Stam, while plying his trade in Holland, Kokcu opted against taking a move to one of Europe's elite and instead focused on fostering his talents with Benfica, now more complete for it.

And given that he's been praised as a "leader" by talent scout Jacek Kulig, this rising star might turn out to be the galvanising midfield force to spearhead the Frank era.

Who knows, maybe he'll even come to be an upgrade on Maddison.

As you can see, Kokcu is more than capable of matching Maddison's immense creative qualities - an aptitude which has indeed seen the England international hailed as a "magician" by the likes of statistician Statman Dave in the past.

Moreover, the 28-year-old playmaker's two terms with Tottenham have been frustratingly defined by regular injury setbacks. Given that Kokcu is four years his junior, there's plenty of scope for growth with Frank might want to take advantage of.

While Spurs' man is somewhat more combative than Kokcu, the Turkey talent is even more creative and clinical besides. Indeed, having missed just two big chances in the Primeira Liga last season, scoring seven goals, he's got the goalscoring edge that could be channelled in a similar fashion as his counterpart here.

And the proof is in the pudding, for Kokcu, indeed, has demonstrated his ability to stand out against high-level Premier League opposition.

While Maddison is an incredible, dynamic midfielder, he's got his flaws, and in Kokcu, Tottenham could get their hands on a pass master with the ever-widening scope that is required for success at the highest level.

After all, he managed to throw down with the heavy hitters in last season's Champions League, finishing the campaign ranked among the top 15% of midfielders for goals scored and shot-creating actions, the top 19% for progressive passes and the top 13% for completed through balls per 90, as per FBref.

Shot-creating actions are pieces of play that lead to a shot. These include moments such as a pass, take-on or foul being drawn.

Tottenham might not be able to sign one of their top targets in Eze, but by moving for Kokcu, Frank could get his hands on an astute signing who has so much room for growth - potentially even turning out better, more consistent, than Maddison.

Tottenham Hotspur have their sights set on clinching more silverware in 2025/26, with Thomas Frank replacing Ange Postecoglou in the dugout after the latter won the Europa League.

Of course, that doesn't paint the full picture by half: Postecoglou's chaotic tactics led to his demise, for his Spurs side finished 17th in the Premier League and endured miserable fortunes throughout the campaign.

However, Tottenham exhibited incredible resilience and togetherness to pick themselves up from the wayside and end 17 years of barrenness on the trophy front.

The players did so well, and so did Ange, who has departed a hero, immortalised in the club's sweeping history.

And with a place in next year's Champions League secured, Tottenham must now accelerate their summer transfer plans and bring in some impactful additions to kickstart the Frank era.

The latest on Spurs' search for wingers

Tottenham were left bruised after Bryan Mbeumo intimated that he would only leave Brentford this summer to sign for Manchester United, ignoring intrigue from Spurs and Newcastle United, both of whom will play in the Champions League; the Red Devils will not.

Now, fears are rising concerning West Ham United's Mohammed Kudus too. The Ghanaian winger has been the subject of a rejected £55m bid from Spurs but is now of increasing interest to Chelsea.

Frank clearly wants to strengthen his attacking ranks with athletic and potent wingers capable of dynamising his frontline.

If Tottenham fail to sign Mbeumo (which certainly seems the case), Frank will still expect to see a goalscoring winger added to his ranks, easing the goalscoring workload of Dominic Solanke in the middle.

And Daniel Levy may well have found a shrewd solution.

Spurs learn conditions for new winger

According to Football Insider, Tottenham have been informed by Celtic that they will have to pay something in the region of £25m if they wish to sign Daizen Maeda this summer.

The free-scoring Japan forward is one of the dominant Scottish champions' prized assets, and with Brentford, West Ham and Fenerbahce overseas all interested too, there's every chance the valuation will balloon over the coming weeks.

Celtic's stance might appear absolute, but there is a gulf in finances between the English and Scottish footballing border, and given Frank needs such a profile in north London, there's every chance an affordable deal could be struck.

What Daizen Maeda would bring to Spurs

While Maeda is principally a left-sided forward, Heung-min Son's future at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is in the air, and thus, he could be the perfect addition given that Timo Werner has departed after his two-year loan spell.

It was Postecoglou who signed Maeda on loan from Yokohama F Marinos back in January 2022, before the transfer was made permanent that summer.

While he's perhaps struggled for consistency at times in Scotland, who could argue against the 27-year-old's prolific ability after the recent season? Indeed, Maeda scored 33 goals and provided 12 assists for his teammates across 51 outings.

His goalscoring aptitude suggests Frank could fashion him into his new version of Mbeumo.

As we can tell from the data above, Maeda isn't quite on the level of Mbeumo, for the Cameroonian forward is so complete in his performances, blending everything together to become "unplayable" when on his A-game, as has been said in the past by Frank.

However, Maeda's certainly no joke, with Celtic's dominance in the Scottish Premiership perhaps precluding the usage of his athletic attributes that he does possess. Indeed, his former coach at Yokohama F Marinos, John Hutchinson, has described him as a "physical beast".

Furthermore, Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers has claimed that the Japan international is one of the best pace-setters on the globe, doubting that "there's anyone better in world football" at leading the charge and dictating tempo.

With such machine-like stamina, you'd think he might even be tailor-made for a role in a Frank system, emulating Mbeumo and maybe seeing his game go from strength to strength as he adapts to the rigorous nature of the Premier League, something that seems well within his powers.

He's also proven his capacity to succeed on the biggest stage, scoring for the Hoops against Bayern Munich in last year's Champions League group phase.

If Maeda wishes to reach his full potential, you'd think he might want to pursue a career in the Premier League, where he could dovetail right into a new Tottenham set-up which promises so much: stability, fluency, dynamism.

Mbeumo has reaped the rewards of plying his trade for the Lilywhites' Danish manager, only outscored in the English top flight last term by Mohamed Salah, Erling Haaland and Alexander Isak.

You can see why Spurs are so keen on securing the right-sided forward's signature. Saying that, given that Brentford are in for Maeda, one could surmise that the Bees are also keen on bagging themselves a similar profile to their soon-to-depart talisman, thus strengthening Tottenham's case to forge ahead with a move.

Tottenham Hotspur are still riding on the euphoria of winning the Europa League, salvaging something from a wretched 2024/25 campaign that led to a 17th-place Premier League finish and Ange Postecoglou's dismissal from his post.

It was a contentious call, to be sure, but Spurs' triumph could not and did not detract from the abject domestic form that highlighted so many flaws in the squad, injury-hit though it was.

With Thomas Frank now at the helm, there are plenty of reasons for the Lilywhite faithful to be excited, especially since the success on the continent, beating Manchester United in the final, has rolled out the carpet into next term's Champions League proper.

While Frank and the club's fanbase are hoping to see some exciting new forwards welcomed to the fold, Tottenham also need to address their defensive deficiencies.

Incomings are needed, with the potential sale of one of the outfit's superstars playing into that.

The latest on Spurs' defensive situation

It's clear that Tottenham need to strengthen at the back, especially as Cristian Romero is at the top of Atletico Madrid's summer shopping list and could be sold in the next few months.

Despite finalising a deal for Kevin Danso, it's clear that the Londoners need some added quality in defence; too often last season (and in 2023/24), the club's fragilities were heightened when Romero and Micky van de Ven were absent - and setbacks have been commonplace for the imperious centre-half pairing.

According to transfer insider Ben Jacobs, Tottenham have joined Inter Milan in lodging an official enquiry for Genoa defender Koni De Winter.

While the suitors have yet to place official offers on the table, discussions are ongoing and Genoa would be willing to do business for a fee in a region of €25m (£21m).

What Koni De Winter would bring to Spurs

Joining Genoa from Juventus in a deal worth €10m (roughly £8m) in 2024, De Winter has enjoyed a standout season for Genoa, featuring 25 times and scoring three goals. He would have featured more prominently, but for a hamstring injury sustained in October, keeping him out for two months.

Having previously played at the Luigi Ferraris Stadium on loan the term before, the Belgium international has enjoyed steady progress in Italy and could now be ready for a move to the Premier League, emulating his countryman Jan Vertonghen in playing for Tottenham.

As per FBref, the 23-year-old ranked among the top 3% of central defenders across Europe's top five leagues last season for goals scored, the top 9% for touches in the attacking box, the top 10% for aerial duels won and the top 14% for ball recoveries per 90.

A ball recovery is defined by the number of loose balls recovered by a player.

De Winter's flair for the attacking side of the game further suggests that he could be Vertonghen's heir down N17 in more than just nationality, with journalist Antonio Mango even saying "his in-game intelligence is unreal".

Moreover, De Winter's versatility and athleticism lend themselves to a wider berth, having featured five times as a right-back for Genoa. The left-footed Vertonghen was dispatched on the left numerous times across his long Spurs career for similar reasons.

Vertonghen, now 38 years old, played 313 times for Tottenham after signing from Ajax for just £10m in 2012, with his career in the Premier League leaving him regarded among the finest defenders of his generation, partnered mainly with countryman Toby Alderweireld.

Big boots to fill, but De Winter has the versatility and technical confidence to forge a successful career for himself in the English capital, emulating his Belgian icon.

Tottenham are "now" actively looking at signing an intriguing alternative to West Ham winger Mohammed Kudus, with talks for the Hammers star far from straightforward.

Earlier this week, multiple reports began emerging that Spurs had entered talks for Kudus, with chairman Daniel Levy even reaching out to his east London counterpart, David Sullivan, for discussions over the 24-year-old (GiveMeSport).

These talks have been backed up by trusted transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano as well, who reported that a "positive" approach was made as negotiations get underway between all parties involved on the player and club side.

A very reliable Lilywhites source, insider Paul O'Keefe, even states that Tottenham have already seen an initial £50 million offer rejected for Kudus - which happened midway through June.

West Ham will reportedly sell for around £60 million (The Guardian), and if Spurs manage to get anywhere in pursuit of the former Ajax star, it would be the first transfer between both clubs since Scott Parker's switch to north London in 2011.

With just under two months to go before the end of the summer window, Levy and co will not want to haggle for too long, with journalist Pete O'Rourke sharing news on a potentially viable alternative.

Tottenham actively looking at signing OGC Nice forward Evann Guessand

Speaking to Football Insider, O'Rourke claims that man is OGC Nice forward Evann Guessand, who's fresh off the back of a 13-goal season in all competitions.

Tottenham have been tentatively linked with a move for Guessand this window, but O'Rourke tells Football Insider that Thomas Frank's side are actively pursuing the versatile Ivory Coast international - who predominantly featured on the right-hand side in Kudus' position last term.

As well as on both flanks, the 24-year-old can operate as a second striker and even as a centre-forward when required. Tottenham would also need a maximum of just £25 million to strike a deal for Guessand, making this an attractive option for Levy, and O'Rourke says he'd be the ideal signing for Frank's system as well.

"A lot of Premier League clubs are looking at Guessand,” said O'Rourke.

“He had a very good season for Nice last season, he got 12 goals and seven assists in 33 Ligue 1 games, so he has a good record. He’s got the physical profile that you think would be a success in English football, and can play anywhere across the front line as well.

“There’s been interest from Brighton, West Ham, Wolves and now Tottenham also have an active interest in Guessand.

“Nice are bracing themselves for interest in this upcoming transfer window. For Tottenham, he would be a good signing, he would fit into how Thomas Frank plays.

“The way Guessand can play anywhere across the front line would make him a valuable addition. Nice will be hoping they can keep hold of him after qualifying for the Champions League themselves.

“They’re looking for a big fee, around £20-25million for a player who still has three years left on his contract.

“It’s not an easy deal to do, but it’s no surprise that a lot of Premier League clubs are looking at him.”

Tottenham are preparing for a crucial first campaign under new manager Thomas Frank, but that doesn't mean everyone will be along for the ride.

The Spurs squad responsible for clinching the club's first major trophy in nearly two decades will go down in Lilywhites folklore, though reports suggest that a few members of that side could be facing their final few weeks at the club.

Chief among them is star defender Cristian Romero, who could be at the centre of a tug-of-war between Real and Atlético Madrid this summer as both Spanish capital sides eye an audacious move for the Argentina international.

Real are expected to make an approach for Romero, according to some media sources, while others claim that Atletico have already offered Spurs around £56 million for his signature.

There is also a belief that Romero is keen on a move to Atlético in particular and will soon discuss his future with chairman Daniel Levy, so the saga surrounding his potential exit is unlikely to go away any time soon.

Meanwhile, Spurs legend Son Heung-min may also be sold before deadline day (The Telegraph), having entered the final 12 months of his contract.

The Saudi Pro League is targeting Son to join their division's host of illustrious stars, and Levy could use this as an opportunity to raise some revenue off a player who's arguably been on the decline this past year.

“Son would be a very valuable asset for Saudi Arabia," said former Everton CEO, Keith Wyness, to Football Insider last month.

“At 32, it’s probably the right time for him to go if Spurs are going to maximise his value. I think Tottenham won’t find a better deal if they leave it later than right now. I believe they could even get something like £40-50million for him.

“That would be incredible, and I suggest that deal could be done. It might be in everyone’s interest to get him down to Saudi Arabia this summer.”

According to journalist Jorge Nicola this week, Saudi are actually targeting another Spurs forward with Son as well.

Tottenham put Richarlison up for sale amid Galatasaray and Saudi interest

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Nicolas reports that the man in question is striker Richarlison.

The Brazil international, who cost £60 million to sign from Everton three years ago, has been called an "underrated" member of the squad during his time in London (Micah Richards), and enjoyed a real purple patch of form under Ange Postecoglou midway through the 2023/2024 season.

However, barring that flash in the pan, Richarlison has largely failed to justify his mammoth price tag, partly due to injuries.

Nicola states that Tottenham are actively looking to sell Richarlison, and have held recent exit discussions amid serious interest from Saudi, who've been in contact for the last month.

As well as this, Turkish Süper Lig champions Galatasaray are expected to make an offer for the 28-year-old in the next few days, so Richarlison isn't exactly short of suitors.

With a place in Brazil's 2026 World Cup squad potentially at the forefront of his mind, Richarlison's next move will be absolutely crucial.

Thomas Frank has the responsibility of leading Tottenham Hotspur to the next level, after taking the reins from Ange Postecoglou earlier this summer.

The Dane will have some adaptations to make in North London, needing to evaluate the options at his disposal before making any key decisions on the futures of multiple players.

There’s no denying that the new boss will need backing from the board if he is to build on the Europa League triumph and make the Lilywhites serial winners, as stated in his first interview.

However, to have the funds he desires, he will likely have to move on numerous players already on the books, freeing up key wages and budget to enable him to dip into the transfer market.

With the current transfer window now in full swing, numerous players have been mentioned with a potential switch to join Frank’s side, handing the supporters a reason to be excited about the new era.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer

Bryan Mbeumo is a player who has been firmly linked with Spurs over the last couple of weeks, unsurprisingly so given his spell under Frank at Brentford.

However, a move now seems extremely unlikely, with the Cameroonian wanting a move to join Manchester United, with the Red Devils already submitting two bids for his signature this window.

His rejection has led to other targets being considered in North London, with Inter Milan wing-back Denzel Dumfries on their radar, according to FC Inter News.

Their report claims that the Lilywhites have made an enquiry to land the Dutch international, who’s set to be available for a fee in the region of €25m (£20m) this summer.

It also states that fellow Premier League sides Chelsea and Manchester United have also asked for further information over a deal for the 29-year-old star.

Why Spurs’ £20m target would be a better signing than Mbeumo

Frank’s ability to transform Brentford into an established Premier League outfit was mainly down to the talents of Mbeumo, with the winger often producing the goods within the final third.

After Ivan Toney’s departure to Saudi Arabia last summer, the 25-year-old claimed the responsibility of leading the line for the Bees - something which he managed to achieve throughout the 2024/25 campaign.

He managed to score 20 times in England’s top flight last season, leading to major interest in his signature over the past couple of months - arguably being one of the most sought-after stars this window.

However, now that a move to North London appears all but over, it’s allowed Frank to focus on other talents, with Dumfries just one of the players he’s set his eyes on during the off-season.

The wing-back wouldn’t be a direct alternative for Mbeumo after missing out on his signature, but he does hand an excellent versatile option to the squad ahead of 2025/26.

He can play at full-back or on the right side of midfield if needed, having the talent at both ends of the pitch, as seen with his tallies throughout last season.

The “world-class” star, as labelled by StatMuse, registered 11 goals and five assists across all competitions, with five of his efforts coming in the Champions League semi-finals against Barcelona.

He’s demonstrated he can thrive in forward areas despite his defensive role, also being able to do so in Europe’s biggest club competition - something that will be vital next season for Frank’s side.

The Dutch star has also won 72% of the tackles he entered throughout the last campaign, winning 5.2 duels per 90 and offering the Lilywhites a real dominant option at both ends.

Dumfries would also be a much cheaper option for the hierarchy this summer, having the talent to operate in any right-sided role required, potentially being an important squad option throughout 2025/26.

There’s no denying a move for Mbeumo would’ve injected serious quality into the frontline, but a move for the Inter star would improve multiple areas, handing Frank the depth he needs, given the quantity of competitions the side are in next year.

As Thomas Frank prepares for his first season as Tottenham Hotspur manager this campaign, he will want to make an immediate impact and adhere himself to the fanbase.

The Dane has the responsibility of leading the club towards the top end of the Premier League after struggling to impress throughout the 2024/25 campaign.

He will also lead the Lilywhites into the Champions League, needing to have key depth across the squad if they are to be competitive in various competitions.

However, after taking the reins, Frank will unsurprisingly be wanting to make his own impression on the side, needing to make signings who will improve the options at his disposal.

Alongside incomings, outgoings are also needed to allow players not at the level required to move on, handing the manager the funds he needs to sustain their recent European success.

The latest on Spurs’ transfer activity this window

Centre-back Cristian Romero has been a name constantly mentioned with a move away from Spurs this summer, with Atlético and Real Madrid both interested in the Argentine.

It’s been reported over recent days that a £60m fee could be enough to prise him away from North London, potentially leaving a huge hole within the side’s backline.

However, the supporters shouldn’t worry, with moves already being made to land other defenders, leading to Castello Lukeba emerging on their shortlist, according to Foot Mercato.

The report claims that Frank’s side have been keen on a move to land the French youngster, who made 31 appearances for RB Leipzig across all competitions in 2024/25.

It also states that the 22-year-old currently has a €90m (£77m) release clause in his contract, but he could be allowed to depart for a lower fee should a deal be negotiated.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be the perfect Romero replacement

Whilst Romero has been a player who has divided opinion during his spell at Spurs, his showing in the Europa League final is evidence of the talent he possesses.

The 27-year-old was handed the Man of the Match award during the historical triumph, and understandably so when delving into his stats from such a performance.

He made 10 clearances, five of which were with his head, along with six duels won, helping the Lilywhites keep a clean sheet and end their near two-decade wait for a piece of silverware.

Losing the Argentine would be a huge blow, leaving Frank with a massive task to replace the star who’s showcased his talent over the last couple of months in North London.

However, a deal for Lukeba would be a superb one, having all the tools to move the club in the right direction and fill the void left should the centre-back depart this window.

When comparing their respective stats from the most recent season, the Frenchman has managed to outperform him in numerous key areas, showcasing why he could be the perfect replacement.

Lukeba, who’s been labelled “one of the best centre-backs” by one writer at The Athletic, has registered more progressive passes and carries per 90 in 2024/25, highlighting the ability he possesses to play out from the back.

Without the ball, he’s been just as dominant, winning more of the tackles he’s entered, whilst also making more blocks, subsequently handing Frank the defensive quality he needs.

The Leipzig talent has also won more aerial duels and made more clearances per 90, with his tallies nothing short of sensational given his tender age - having the chance to improve further in the years ahead.

Whilst losing Romero would be something no Spurs fan would want this summer, Lukeba is evidence that there are better options out there within the transfer market.

It's unclear how much the Bundesliga side could command for his services, but if the Argentine does depart North London this summer, a move for the Frenchman must be the priority.

Tottenham manager Thomas Frank is a real fan of one Aston Villa star, and the Lilywhites are reportedly prepared to offer him something key which could well tempt him to north London.

Spurs are poised to make J League sensation Kota Takai their second summer signing after a permanent deal for Mathys Tel, with the 20-year-old expected to undergo his medical at the club next week (Luca Bendoni, Sky Italia).

The centre-back was identified by technical director Johan Lange, and there is hope within Tottenham that Takai could eventually replicate the journeys of Lucas Bergvall, Destiny Udogie and Pape Sarr as promising young players who are now crucial to the first team (Alasdair Gold).

Tottenham will pay a record fee for a Japanese player from the J League, around £5 million, but supporters will be hopeful that they could sign a few more senior players as well.

Frank's side will be competing in the Champions League next season, and they're in dire need of proven reinforcements to bolster their Premier League squad ahead of another congested fixture calendar.

Tottenham are known to be in talks for West Ham winger Mohammed Kudus, as reported by trusted transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano and other reliable media outlets, with the Ghanaian also apparently keen on a switch to N17.

However, Kudus is not the only Premier League ace garnering their attention.

Tottenham boss Thomas Frank wants Aston Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey

Speaking to Football Insider, former Spurs scout and Daniel Levy employee, Mick Brown, has shared information on their interest in £40 million Aston Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey.

Spurs have been linked with a move for the Englishman in the last few days, but Brown says Frank is a personal admirer of Ramsey, and Tottenham are prepared to offer him more top-flight minutes, which could turn his head.

“Jacob Ramsey has to make a decision,” said Brown.

“In his own mind, he’ll weigh up whether he thinks he’s going to be a regular in the Villa team. If that’s not the case, he has to ask the same question about whether he would be at Tottenham.

“From what I hear, Spurs would be prepared to offer him more minutes from the start of games than he is currently getting at Villa. If that is the case, I’m sure he would be happy to make that move.

“He’s had doubts about whether he’s going to be a regular starting XI player at Villa, or if he’s going to be better served moving somewhere else. So a move to Tottenham would be a fresh start and a new environment for him. There have been a few questions about what his future at Villa might look like, because the manager isn’t certain he’s going to be a big part of the plans.

“That opens the door for Spurs, because Thomas Frank rates him, and he’s one they’ve been interested in for a while."

The versatile 24-year-old has made 167 senior appearances for Villa already, and possesses that unique blend of both youth and experience. Taking this into account, Ramsey could be an excellent option to reinforce Frank's midfield whilst providing first-teamers with more competition for places.

Strength in depth will be vital for Frank next season, so this is a move which could tick a few boxes.

Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy is facing the prospect of a key Spurs player asking for a transfer, according to reports, with one club said to have already made an offer.

Thomas Frank's first-ever season managing a 'big six' club will be fraught with challenges, not least their European campaign, and there is a lot more expectation surrounding the north London club after they clinched the Europa League title in May.

Ange Postecoglou, despite guiding the club to their first major trophy in 17 years, paid the price for Tottenham's poor domestic form last term - with the Lilywhites losing more Premier League games in a single season than they ever had in previous years (22).

However, their 1-0 triumph over Manchester United in Bilbao has gifted Frank something hugely significant to build upon ahead of 2025/2026, and the significant financial windfall acquired from qualifying for the Champions League stands to seriously assist them in this summer's transfer market.

As per Sky Sports reporter Micheal Bridge, Spurs won't have to adopt a sell to buy policy, with their place in Europe's most elite competition described as "huge" when it comes to their recruitment drive over the next two months.

That being said, there are certain big names who could still depart N17 over the coming weeks.

Son Heung-min is attracting serious interest from the Saudi Pro League, and there are suggestions that the 32-year-old may be sold for a profit. Levy will reportedly demand around £50 million to sell the Spurs captain, who's entered the final 12 months of his contract, with star defender Cristian Romero also earning a few admirers from abroad.

The Argentine won last year's Europa League Player of the Season and played a major role in helping Tottenham lift the trophy. Atlético Madrid are known admirers of his, as confirmed by Diego Simeone, but some reports they've reached an agreement in principle to sign Romero appear wide of the mark.

Their cross-city rivals, Real Madrid, are also believed to be keen on Romero, with Xabi Alonso's side expected to make a "concrete" approach (CaughtOffside).

Cristian Romero to ask Daniel Levy for Tottenham exit

It does appear Atlético have advanced further along in a potential move for the 27-year-old, though, as explained by journalist Ruben Uria.

The reporter told 'Derbi en USA', via El Desmarque, that Simeone's side have made an offer of around £56 million for Romero, including add-ons, but this is nowhere near Levy's price tag.

Spurs have apparently slapped a £70 million valuation on the centre back's head, but Romero will tell Levy he wants to leave Tottenham once he returns from holiday.

"He wants to come to Atlético," said Uria.

"Cholo is in direct contact with him. What he'll do is come back from vacation to talk to Daniel Levy and tell him he wants to leave. From there, we'll see what happens. Tottenham are asking for €82 million to let him leave. They value him like Fofana or Van Dijk, with an expensive transfer fee.

"They've [Atletico] made an offer of €55 million plus €10 million in variables. I think it's a very good offer."

Romero has two years left on his contract, so acquiring £70 million for his signature would be excellent business by Levy, but the South American stalwart would also be a very tough figurehead to replace.

Frank surely won't be keen on losing Romero, but as things stand, nobody is near Tottenham's requirements to let him leave, so this will be an intriguing story to follow.