Football FanCast

Tottenham supporters will be hoping for a busy summer after their Europa League triumph in May, and their wish has been semi-granted thus far with two months remaining of the transfer window.

Thomas Frank's side are currently attempting a potential swoop for West Ham winger Mohammed Kudus, as reliably reported elsewhere, with positive talks underway between all parties as the African edges towards a London Stadium exit.

Arsenal and Chelsea have also held talks over Kudus, though, so Spurs may not have it their own way, and an intriguing three-way London battle for the 24-year-old's signature could be about to unfold.

Chelsea are noted as serious rival contenders in particular, as noted by Stamford Bridge reporter Simon Phillips, via his Substack.

"Chelsea are working to try and sign Mohammed Kudus right now! But they may have to be quick due to Tottenham advancing on the deal. Newcastle are also keen as well as clubs in Saudi," wrote Phillips.

"On the player side, we’ve heard that he wants Chelsea but is also content to go to Spurs. He is just keen to move after not seeing eye to eye with Graham Potter."

A move for Kudus would follow Tottenham's cut-price £30 million permanent deal for Mathys Tel, who joined from Bayern Munich after an initial six-month loan spell, and their imminent signing of Kawasaki Frontale defender Kota Takai.

Tottenham agreed a £5 million deal to sign Takai recently - a J League record fee for a Japanese player (Fabrizio Romano).

He was identified by Johan Lange as a young player who could follow in the footsteps of Lucas Bergvall, Pape Sarr and Destiny Udogie (Alasdair Gold), and he's expected to play a role in the senior matchday squad.

Kota Takai expected for Tottenham medical next week

Frontale have already confirmed that Takai will be leaving the club, and Sky Italia reporter Luca Bendoni now claims that the centre-half will soon touch down in N17.

Takai is expected to land at Tottenham "as soon as next week" to complete his move to the Lilywhites, with Frank on the verge of welcoming his second summer signing after Tel.

Takai played a key role for Frontale last season, helping them reach the AFC Champions League final, where they narrowly lost out to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli.

Frontale also knocked out Al-Nassr en route to the final, with Takai helping to silence the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Jhon Duran during their 3-2 victory over the Saudis.

Thomas Frank will be the next Tottenham Hotspur manager to try and catapult the club back into a Premier League title battle over the next couple of seasons.

The Dane will certainly come under scrutiny if he’s unable to push the Lilywhites up the league table, needing to right the wrongs endured under former boss Ange Postecoglou.

However, the Aussie did secure the Europa League title, handing his successor the chance to build on the triumph and be competitive in the Champions League throughout 2025/26.

A balance will need to be struck if the club are to be a success in various competitions, subsequently allowing the new manager to be an instant hit with the supporters in the coming months.

If the Dane is to thrive in North London, he will need quality and depth in certain key areas to help balance the quest for success in Europe and domestically.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer

Mohammed Kudus has been a player who’s been firmly on Spurs’ radar over recent days, with the Lilywhites submitting a £50m offer, but it was swiftly rejected with the Hammers demanding a hefty fee for his signature.

He currently has an £85m release clause in his contract, but it’s been reported that he could be available for a lower fee, but it remains to be seen if the player himself would be keen on a move across London.

However, they could be about to make a move for another Premier League star in the form of Fulham full-back Antonee Robinson, according to journalist Paul O’Keefe.

He confirmed earlier this week that the Lilywhites are closely monitoring the American international, who featured in all but two league games last season.

O’Keefe also confirmed that the 27-year-old is seen as a key option for Frank this summer, after he registered ten assists in the Premier League throughout 2024/25.

Reports earlier this year suggested Fulham would be open to letting him leave if they received a £40m bid.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be a more important signing than Kudus

There’s no denying that a move for Kudus would bring added excitement to the fanbase, ahead of what’s set to be a new era under the guidance of Frank in North London.

Given the other targets this summer, it’s evident that the Dane is targeting attacking reinforcements, with the likes of Antoine Semenyo and Bryan Mbeumo also being linked with a move to the club.

However, given the side’s tally of 64 league goals last season, they clearly have the firepower to cause problems for multiple sides in the division, potentially leading them to future success.

As a result, the new boss should look to prioritise a move for new defenders, with Robinson just one player who would be a more important addition than Kudus this summer.

Spurs currently only have one senior left-back in the form of Destiny Udogie, but the Italian has also had his injury struggles, missing 13 league games in the 2024/25 season.

Right-back Djed Spence has subsequently had to operate out of position at times to cover for the Italian, highlighting the need for depth in such a department this summer.

When delving into Robinson’s stats from last season, he’s managed to star at both ends of the pitch, handing Frank the talent that he craves during his first season at the helm.

The full-back, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by journalist Toby Bryant, created 1.3 chances per 90, along with a 53% dribbling success rate - having the tools to get forward areas in North London.

Out of possession, he was just as impressive last campaign, winning 1.7 tackles per 90, whilst winning 5.8 duels per 90 - handing the side the added defensive quality it needs in 2025/26.

It’s unclear how much a deal would set the hierarchy back this summer, but from the stats produced in recent months, it’s evident that he’s coming into the prime years of his career.

He would be a phenomenal pick-up, undoubtedly handing Frank an excellent star in a position that has undoubtedly been one of the hardest to fill over the last couple of years in North London.

Tottenham Hotspur face a huge task ahead of them in 2025/26, desperately needing to build on the success they enjoyed in the final months of last season.

The Lilywhites claimed the Europa League title with a 1-0 win over Manchester United in Bilbao, subsequently ending their 17-year drought without any form of silverware.

However, the triumph in Europe is evidence that the club can compete at the top level, with Thomas Frank needing to continue the excellent work done by former boss Ange Postecoglou.

The Dane has the opportunity to take the side to the next level, but he will need to be an immediate success in the Premier League and prevent a repeat of the 15th-place finish in 2024/25.

Unsurprisingly, changes are to be expected in North London, needing to make the additions he craves if he is to be a success during his first year at the helm.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer

Mohammed Kudus is one attacker who’s been strongly linked with a move to join Spurs this window, as Frank looks to bolster the frontline at his disposal.

It was reported in recent days that the Lilywhites have had their first offer for the 24-year-old rejected, but they are still closely monitoring the West Ham United star.

However, another name has been thrown into the mix in recent days, with Aston Villa youngster Jacob Ramsey firmly on their radar, according to Football Insider.

They claim that the Lilywhites have been monitoring the 24-year-old in recent times and have now entered talks with his agent over a move to North London.

It also states that Frank has previously been a huge admirer of the Englishman, potentially looking to take advantage of their financial situation, with a £40m price tag being mooted for the attacker.

Why Spurs’ £40m target would be Frank’s next Mbeumo

Bryan Mbeumo is a player who has managed to take his career to the next level under Frank’s guidance in recent years, subsequently developing into one of the Premier League’s leading stars.

The Cameroonian international spent six years under the Dane’s guidance, with the manager undoubtedly playing a huge role in his rise to stardom over the last few months.

The 25-year-old managed to net 20 league goals last season, in what was the best goalscoring campaign of his career, being only one of five players in the division to hit such a tally.

He’s been on the Lilywhites’ radar to potentially follow Frank to North London this summer, but it appears as though he’s set to move to Manchester United after stating his desire to join the Red Devils.

However, as seen with their attempts to land Kudus in this window, Frank wants a new forward, potentially opening the door to a move to land fellow target Ramsey.

Whilst the Englishman hasn’t managed to nail down a place in Unai Emery’s side, he’s still managed to produce numerous impressive figures that have been better than Mbeumo’s in 2024/25.

The Villa star, who’s been labelled “sensational” by one analyst, has thrived with the ball at his feet, completing more progressive passes per 90, along with more key passes per 90, having the tools to provide those around him with chances in North London.

He’s also completed more of the take-ons he’s attempted, whilst registering a higher tally of carries into the final third per 90, offering a constant threat to the opposition backline.

Ramsey’s dominance doesn’t end there, winning more aerials, potentially handing Frank an all-round option within the final third, and potentially being a bargain at £40m.

Now that the PSR deadline has passed, it remains unclear whether Villa will be willing to part ways with the youngster, but he would be a superb signing and one that would transform the Lilywhites’ attack.

If he could carry over his form from the Midlands to the capital, it would be a sensational piece of business, handing Frank a star who could emulate the success of Mbeumo under his guidance.

Tottenham's preparations for the 2025/2026 season are well underway, and the next few weeks of this transfer window will be pivotal for new manager Thomas Frank.

Spurs began this summer by sealing a permanent deal for versatile winger Mathys Tel from Bayern Munich, at the discounted rate of around £30 million, with the Frenchman already drawing praise from Frank, who's excited to work with him.

"Very, very excited about Mathys signing with a permanent deal," said Frank in his first interview as Spurs manager.

"I think he's a very talented player that can play across the front four positions. He's a goalscorer that we can develop even further to be more consistent in his all-round game but also to more consistently land in the right positions in the box. So I'm looking forward to it."

Tottenham then made quite a left-field signing soon afterwards, sealing a £5 million deal for Kawasaki Frontale defender Kota Takai, with chairman Daniel Levy green-lighting a J-League record move for a Japanese player.

He was identified by technical director Johan Lange as a promising young starlet who could make a Premier League impact similar to the likes of Pape Sarr, Destiny Udogie and Lucas Bergvall, so supporters could expect to see him in and around the first team next season (Alasdair Gold).

While Takai boasts a decent level of experience as a 20-year-old, having played a key role during Frontale's run to the Asian Champions League final last season - helping to thwart Cristiano Ronaldo's Al-Nassr in the semis - Spurs fans will still be eager to see bigger names come through the door.

Son Heung-min could leave Tottenham after 10 years this summer, with Saudi sides expressing a keen interest. If the Lilywhites legend does depart, Frank will need a proven replacement, which has perhaps contributed to their interest in West Ham star Mohammed Kudus.

Mohammed Kudus sees "great opportunity" to join Tottenham

According to reliable media sources, Spurs talks for Kudus are underway between all parties (Fabrizio Romano), with reports suggesting that the "underrated" Ghanaian has emerged as a top target.

GiveMeSport reported earlier this week that Levy has even contacted West Ham chairman David Sullivan for talks over a potential deal for the 24-year-old, starting the bidding at £50 million.

Now, journalist Graeme Bailey has told TBR Football that the Hammers will demand around £60 million for their most sellable summer asset, but his desire to make a move to N17 is clear.

While both Arsenal and Chelsea have held talks, and he's likely open to both clubs, Kudus sees Tottenham as a "great opportunity" and really wants to join Frank's side before deadline day.

To date, Spurs are also the "most advanced" in their approach for the former Ajax star, with Bailey also reiterating that Levy is indeed in contact with Sullivan regarding Kudus' transfer.

If the two sides can agree a fee, it would be their first deal since Scott Parker's move to Tottenham in 2011 - ultimately ending their 14-year unofficial transfer embargo.

Thomas Frank hasn’t been short of talented attackers during his time as a manager, hoping to attract similar talent during his stint as Tottenham Hotspur boss.

The Dane has overseen the development of the likes of Ivan Toney, Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa, with the trio sitting at the top for most Premier League goals scored in the Bees' history.

Toney left in a big-money deal to move to Saudi Arabia last summer, but Mbeumo is also expected to follow suit, as a £70m deal to join Manchester United appears to be edging closer.

Frank even tried to convince the Cameroonian international to move to North London with him, but the winger stated his desire to move to Ruben Amorim’s side instead.

Such a decision has left the new Lilywhites' boss with the challenge of landing a new star forward, already making huge waves in the transfer market to potentially land his next big talent in the final third.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new attacking talent this summer

Antoine Semenyo was seen as one of Spurs’ biggest targets in this transfer window a couple of weeks ago, with real belief they could land the Ghanaian if they offered £65m for his signature.

However, it looks as though they are set to miss out on a deal to land the Bournemouth star, after he put pen to paper on a new five-year deal, which will see him remain at the Vitality until 2030.

Such a decision has seen other targets being considered, with West Ham United star Mohammed Kudus someone who’s been mentioned nonstop in recent days.

However, CaughtOffside’s latest update has stated the Hammers star has emerged as the Lilywhites’ number one target this summer, despite having a £85m release clause in his current deal.

It also states that the hierarchy are willing to back the manager in his quest within the market, seeing the 24-year-old as a statement signing ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, potentially able to negotiate a deal at around the £70m mark.

Why Spurs’s number one target could be Frank’s answer to Bale

Gareth Bale was a player who was responsible for countless moments of magic during his spell as a Spurs player, reaching levels that no supporter could ever have imagined.

The Welshman joined the club from Southampton back in 2007, originally as a left-back, before making the shift up the field into a winger - a decision that would transform his career tenfold.

In his three years at the Lilywhites, operating in a more attacking role, he registered 50 goals and 26 assists, resulting in an £85m transfer to join Spanish giants Real Madrid back in the summer of 2013.

The biggest one is his ability to cut inside onto his stronger left foot, subsequently being able to fire the ball into the back of the net - having the ability to hand the fanbase the chance to get off their seats when he’s on the ball.

His underlying stats in 2024/25 are just as impressive, with such figures certainly helping him reach his tally of five goals and four assists across all competitions.

Kudus, who’s been labelled “generational” by journalist Gary Al-Smith, completed 3.2 take-ons per 90 in the Premier League last season, showcasing his ability to drive inside past the opposition.

He also registered 1.5 carries into the opposition box per 90, subsequently able to go round the outside of the full-back before cutting the ball back to a teammate and providing them with the tools for success too.

The Ghanaian’s talents don’t stop there, managing to get 28% of his shots on target, whilst also winning 2.2 fouls per 90, highlighting how much of a threat he poses to the opposition.

If the club can land the West Ham star this summer, it would be a tremendous piece of business, having the opportunity to develop further given the fact he’s just 24 years of age.

Should Kudus manage to get anywhere near the levels produced by Bale in North London, it would be a bargain transfer, subsequently allowing Frank to have his next attacking star in 2025/26.

As it is every year, this summer has already been incredibly busy for Chelsea.

It feels like Enzo Maresca's men were lifting the Conference League trophy only a week ago, but in reality, they've already made it to the quarter-finals of the Club World Cup and have made a real splash in the transfer market.

The likes of Liam Delap, Mamadou Sarr and Dario Essugo were already through the door before the team jetted off for the United States, and now Joao Pedro is set to join up with them.

However, the Blues aren't finished yet, and now it looks like they are set to chase another Premier League star, although this potential deal could be bad news for the former Brighton & Hove Albion ace.

Chelsea to move for Premier League star

After being linked with the club, as well as some others, for several weeks, Pedro was finally officially announced as a Chelsea player yesterday afternoon.

The former Seagulls' star completed his medical with the Blues out in the States, signed a seven-year deal, and reportedly cost the club a cool £60m, which is twice the fee Brighton paid for him only two years ago.

However, while it's a lot of money, it would be hard to deny that his arrival makes the West Londoners stronger, as he was his former side's joint-top goalscorer in the Premier League last season.

Yet, it now looks like the Pensioners are set to target another exciting player from the Premier League, someone who could be bad news for the Brazilian: Mohammed Kudus.

Yes, according to a recent report from Football Insider, Chelsea are one of several clubs incredibly interested in the West Ham United star.

In fact, the report claims the West Londoners are looking to make a move to sign the Ghanaian international, who is also a serious target for London rivals Tottenham Hotspur.

The good news is that the Hammers are likely to accept offers below the player's £80m release clause, with some reports from last week suggesting a fee in the region of £70m could be enough.

It could be a complicated transfer to get over the line, but Kudus could be an excellent addition to Chelsea's squad, albeit one that could spell trouble for Pedro.

Why Kudus could be trouble for Pedro

When it really comes down to it, the reason Kudus' joining Chelsea could be bad news for Pedro is the same reason his arrival could be considered far from ideal for Delap: competition.

As things stand, the Blues now have three out-and-out centre-forwards in the former Brighton man, the former Ipswich Town ace and Nicolas Jackson.

So, when you then also take into consideration the Kudus' ability to play up top, among other positions, that role starts to look rather crowded.

In fact, it's not hard to see a world in which the Brazilian has a slow start to life at the Bridge and immediately begins to see himself falling down the pecking order, potentially even behind the former Ajax gem.

We say it's not hard to imagine, as since moving to England, the "electric" talent as dubbed by scout Jacek Kulig, has scored 13 goals and provided 12 assists in 65 Premier League appearances.

That means he's averaging a goal involvement every 2.6 league games at West Ham, despite being asked to play all over, from out wide to midfielder and then also up top.

In contrast, the former Watford poacher has scored 22 goals and provided ten assists in 89 Premier League appearances, which actually comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 2.78 games.

That's already a little worrying, but becomes even more so when you consider he has played up top, as a striker in the vast majority of those games.

Ultimately, Chelsea have a talented player in Pedro, but if they also sign Kudus, and he starts to outscore him, the Brazilian's role in the squad might start to shrink very early on.

Tottenham Hotspur have showcased in recent months that they are capable of achieving huge levels of success, but it’s pivotal that they build on their recent triumph to reach the next level.

The Lilywhites claimed the Europa League title with a 1-0 win over Manchester United in Bilbao, subsequently securing a place in the Champions League despite their 17th-place league finish.

Thomas Frank has the task of leading the side back to the top end of the Premier League table, needing to get his demands across to the players to give them the best chance of added success.

After taking the reins this summer, it’s no surprise that the Dane will also want to make the additions he craves, potentially spending a pretty penny in the transfer market as a result.

Owner Daniel Levy will have to hand him the funds he needs to make the subsequent changes to his squad, with countless players already on their radar throughout the transfer window.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer

Ademola Lookman has emerged as a shock option for Spurs this summer, after holding talks with the Nigerian’s representatives over a move to North London this summer.

Mohammed Kudus has become one of the Lilywhites’ main targets for this summer window, but could cost a pretty penny, with the Ghanaian currently having an £85m release clause in his contract at West Ham United.

However, they could be about to turn their attention to Monaco star Maghnes Akliouche, with a move for the French youngster touted, according to L’Equipe.

The report claims that Spurs have made their interest known to the 23-year-old’s representatives, with Arsenal, Nottingham Forest and Manchester United also interested.

It claims that the French star could be available for a fee in the region of £60m this summer, after scoring seven and registering 12 assists in his 43 appearances across all competitions.

Why Spurs’ £60m target would be a better signing than Eze

Eberechi Eze has been a player who’s been on Spurs’ radar over the last couple of years, but no deal has ever materialised for the attacking midfielder.

The 27-year-old has been subject to yet more heavy interest this window, after registering 14 goals and 12 assists across all competitions for Crystal Palace in 2024/25.

The Englishman has even been a key part of the national team setup over the last couple of months, subsequently making him an attractive target given his £68m release clause.

However, he could be on his way to North London, but it could be a move to join Arsenal, after the Gunners opened talks with the midfielder over a move to the Emirates.

As a result, they could turn their attention to Akliouche as a result, with the Monaco star having the potential to become an elite-level talent given his tender age.

When comparing his stats to those of Eze from the 2024/25 campaign, the youngster, who's been labelled "exceptional" by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has managed a higher shot on target rate, having the ability to be clinical in front of goal if needed.

He’s also completed more progressive carries per 90 and completed more of the take-ons he’s attempted, possessing a lot of talent when having the ball at his feet.

The Frenchman’s dominance is further reflected in his tally of pass accuracy, and passes into the final third, having the ability to provide others around him with the opportunity to bolster their own tallies.

Whilst £60m may appear to be a mammoth sum of money, it’s a fee that would be cheaper than a deal for Eze, whilst also having the chance to improve down the line given he’s four years younger.

Should he continue on his current trajectory, it would be a sensational piece of business, handing Frank the attacking talent he desires upon the start of the 2025/26 campaign.

Tottenham Hotspur chairman Daniel Levy and his plans for the summer window have taken another turn, with the Spurs chief attempting to back new manager Thomas Frank ahead of his debut season in the dugout.

Spurs kickstarted their recruitment drive with a £30 million permanent deal for Mathys Tel, and followed that up by agreeing a J League record £5 million deal for promising Kawasaki Frontale defender Kota Takai.

The plan for Takai, according to reliable journalist Alasdair Gold, is for him to compete for a place in the senior matchday squad, and Tottenham are apparently hopeful that he can replicate the likes of Destiny Udogie, Lucas Bergvall and Pape Sarr as young players who've staked their claim in the starting eleven.

Frontale have now confirmed the 20-year-old's exit, with Takai looking set to become a new Spurs player after July 5, even if they didn't explicitly mention Tottenham.

"We would like to inform you that Kota Takai will be leaving the team at the end of the activity on Saturday, July 5, in order to complete the necessary procedures and preparations for a transfer to an overseas club," read a club statement.

"We will notify you further regarding future plans as soon as they are officially decided.

"After the match against Kashima Antlers in the 23rd round of the J1 League on Saturday, July 5, Kota Takai will be giving a speech to the supporters. In addition, Takai will not be participating in the Fan Appreciation Day on Sunday, July 6."

According to recent reports, Takai could well be followed by West Ham United winger Mohammed Kudus, if all goes to plan.

Fabrizio Romano says that talks are underway between all parties for the Ghana international, and he's apparently open to making the switch across London.

Now, GiveMeSport have shared an intriguing update on the matter.

Daniel Levy holds talks with David Sullivan over signing Mohammed Kudus

GMS report that Levy has personally held talks with West Ham chairman David Sullivan over the signing of Kudus.

Levy apparently contacted his Hammers counterpart to discuss a deal for the ex-Ajax sensation, with Tottenham starting negotiations at £50 million for Kudus as they attempt to seal a quick deal ahead of rival suitors.

Spurs are wary of the competition for Kudus and have decided to move early for him. The 24-year-old, meanwhile, is actively seeking an exit from the London Stadium, but as things stand, West Ham are insistent that any offer made up to this point is unacceptable.

The Lilywhites will need to meet their capital rivals in the middle, even if West Ham are under some pressure to sell so they can begin their own summer transfer plans.

Kudus endured a mixed 2024/2025 when compared to his electric debut campaign in east London, but teammate Aaron Cresswell has perhaps already explained exactly why Tottenham are very keen.

"I've just trained with him and you don't want to go anywhere near him," Cresswell told the Iron Cast.

"I'm up against him all the time and I'm like: 'Mo, go on over to the left!'

"He's a top, top talent and I think we haven't seen the best of him yet. I won't go near him in training because I know if I'm going to try to knock him off the ball, I had better make sure he's not looking and doesn't see me coming.

"You just can't get near him. He's so strong, so quick, so sharp."

Thomas Frank will face a huge task during his first season as Tottenham Hotspur manager, after his appointment from Brentford a couple of weeks ago.

The Dane has taken the reins from Ange Postecoglou, with the hierarchy wanting the side to reach the next step during his tenure in charge in North London.

After the Europa League triumph last season, the Lilywhites will enter the Champions League, a situation that presents Frank with his first challenge as the club’s boss.

He will need to strike a balance between Europe and the Premier League, needing to rise up the table throughout 2025/26 whilst being competitive in the biggest club competition on the continent.

If the new boss is to be a success, he will need Daniel Levy to back him in the transfer market and hand him the funds to strengthen in key areas and strike a balance with his players.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new signings this summer

The attacking department in North London has been Spurs’ main focus over the last couple of weeks, with numerous names on their radar ahead of a potential transfer.

The likes of Arnaud Kalimuendo and Harvey Elliott have both been firmly on the radar of the Lilywhites, but as of yet no deals have been completed for the aforementioned duo.

Whilst talks have been held for the pair, work has also been done elsewhere, with a move for Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman on the cards during the off-season.

The latest report from TBR Football claims that Frank’s side have been in contact with his representatives over a move to North London, with Arsenal also interested in his signature.

They also claim that he could be available for a fee in the region of £43m this summer after registering 20 goals and six assists for the Serie A outfit last campaign.

Why Spurs’ £43m target would be a better signing than Kudus & Eze

Alongside the previous targets mentioned, Eberechi Eze and Mohammed Kudus have both been frequently mentioned as potential additions from fellow Premier League sides Crystal Palace and West Ham United.

The Englishman has starred for Palace throughout 2024/25, registering eight goals and eight assists in the league, even netting the winner in the Eagles’ unlikely FA Cup triumph.

Such form has also led to keen interest from fellow North London outfit Arsenal, with competition appearing to be fierce for his signature throughout the off-season.

As for Kudus, he currently has a £85m release clause in his contract, with a deal for his signature likely to cost around £60m, potentially negotiating a deal with the Hammers after their original contact.

Both players would be excellent options for the Lilywhites in their quest for success, but may prove to be too expensive, especially considering the inflated fees given their English top-flight status.

Lookman could prove to be a much cheaper alternative, but also a better option within the final third, outperforming the Premier League duo in multiple key areas.

The Nigerian, who’s been labelled “world-class” by the BBC’s John Bennett, has registered more goals and assists throughout 2024/25, along with a higher shot on target accuracy rate - demonstrating his threat within the final third.

He’s also registered more key passes per 90, along with more carries into the opposition box, showcasing his direct nature, which has allowed him to be a constant threat to countless backlines.

Lookman’s all-round dominance is further highlighted in his tally of aerials won and crosses completed, having the talent in numerous key areas to make him a versatile option in Frank’s system.

It’s unclear which of the three players the club will pursue this window, but it’s evident that Lookman would be the best option for the Lilywhites during the current window.

All three would massively improve the options at the Dane’s disposal, but the Nigerian has the added quality that could take the side up a notch throughout 2025/26.

Tottenham have some key transfer decisions to make in the build up to Thomas Frank's first full season in charge, and chairman Daniel Levy could orchestrate the departures of some noteworthy names.

Spurs are fresh off the back of a much-needed end to an otherwise dismal campaign on the domestic front, winning the Europa League final in late May after breaking their record for most Premier League defeats in a single season.

It was a mixed 2024/2025 to say the least, but their first major trophy in 17 years has gifted Frank something precious to build upon with his brand-new squad that he cannot wait to work with.

"The feeling of being the new head coach is extraordinary," said Frank during his first interview as Tottenham boss.

"I'm really looking forward to this massive challenge together with a lot of good people. I only heard good stuff about all the people here, the training ground, the players, good squad, exciting, massive club, I think massive potential, so just super, super excited."

However, as recent reports suggest, the 51-year-old may not be able to keep hold of every star player before deadline day on September 1.

Son Heung-min may have already played his last competitive game for Spurs, amid interest from Saudi Arabia, and Levy has reportedly placed a £50 million price tag on the South Korean's head as he considers taking advantage of this limited window to sell him for a profit.

Meanwhile, Frank will also be wary of Atlético Madrid's serious interest in Cristian Romero, which has already been confirmed by Diego Simeone himself.

The Argentine played a key role in Tottenham's journey to the Europa League podium, and was awarded Player of the Tournament for his string of standout performances, but Frank apparently faces the real possibility of being without his star defender next season.

Tottenham reach "agreement in principle" to sell Cristian Romero

That is according to journalist Fernando Czyz, via Doble Amarilla, who makes a bold claim that Tottenham have reached an "agreement in principle" to sell Romero to Atlético for around £56 million, including add-ons.

The 27-year-old's exit from N17 is described as closer than ever before, following positive talks over the weekend, and negotiations will apparently continue this week with an expectation that the transfer will eventually be finalised.

This information is yet to be backed up by other media sources, so supporters have the luxury of taking it with a pinch of salt, but it's a clear indication that Atlético aren't likely to end their interest in the centre-back any time soon.

Romero is an ever-present leader of the squad has been praised for his "world-class" performances since joining the club from Atalanta in 2021, with Micky van de Ven holding his central defensive partner in very high regard.

“For me, he is world-class. He is a leader. He is always one hundred per cent. He is a top-class player with the ball and without the ball when defending," said van de Ven to Optus Sport.

“I can promise you he is not scared of anyone. He keeps going every game. From day one here he has helped me. He is just a world-class player."