Football FanCast

An "incredible" Premier League forward is now an attainable target for Tottenham Hotspur in 2026, following a new update on their pursuit of Antoine Semenyo.

Spurs set to miss out on Semenyo

It now appears as though Tottenham are set to miss out on the signing of AFC Bournemouth star Semenyo, despite being willing to offer him a big contract, with the forward more keen to join rival Premier League clubs.

As such, Spurs have subsequently started to scour the market for other new attackers, and they are exploring a move for Manchester City's Omar Marmoush, who scored in Egypt's 2-1 victory against Zimbabwe at AFCON on Monday evening.

Marmoush is not the only Man City forward of interest to the north Londoners, however, with transfer insider Dean Jones telling TEAMtalk that Savinho is an attainable target for the Lilywhites in 2026, despite missing out in the summer transfer window.

City blocked the Brazilian's departure at that point, as they didn't believe they would be able to bring in a top replacement, but a move could be possible next year, and he is a more viable target for Thomas Frank than Semenyo, Maghnes Akliouche and Yan Diomande.

Speaking about Tottenham's transfer plans, Jones added: "I like the fact that Spurs want to raise the ceiling of what is possible but obviously they are not helped by the fact this season has not started well,

"They want new attacking edge but they know they also need a back-up list of options. Savinho is one player who is part of that."

"Incredible" Savinho may need to leave Man City

Despite being lauded as "incredible" by Pep Guardiola, the 21-year-old has found game time hard to come by in the Premier League this season, predominantly being used as a substitute, with Jeremy Doku getting the nod at left-wing.

However, the £50k-a-week winger has impressed when given the opportunity, recently grabbing an assist in a five-minute cameo against Crystal Palace, while also scoring and making several key contributions in a 2-0 EFL Cup triumph against Brentford.

With Man City also in the race for Semenyo, however, the 13-time Brazil international is at risk of falling down the pecking order even further, so he may need to leave his current club, in order to avoid his development being hampered.

Savinho, who provided ten Premier League assists last season, could be an exciting long-term addition to Tottenham's squad, so it is promising news that a deal could be possible next year.

Tottenham Hotspur have pulled out of the race for in-demand Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo. Call it pragmatic, but ENIC Group have recognised the waning odds of pulling off a deal as the Premier League's elite all ramp up the gas.

Semenyo, 25, has been one of the standout forwards in English football this season, scoring eight goals and providing three assists in the top flight. Tottenham have been keen for a while, but now they can reorient their attention to new targets, with Thomas Frank's side in need of attacking investment this winter.

The current position of the board is that Frank needs time to put Tottenham's troubles to rights. The Londoners are 14th in the Premier League at Christmas, their home form is wretched, and creative levels are at a low ebb.

With Semenyo off the cards - having reportedly rejected the Lilywhites - sporting director Johan Lange is indeed turning to alternatives.

Spurs searching for a Semenyo alternative

Brennan Johnson has been well out of form this season, and he has been slated for a winter transfer to Crystal Palace.

It is unlikely that the Welshman's prospective move would be scuppered by failure in the bid for Semenyo, so Frank will surely look to sign an alternative, having actually already earmarked a few.

Real Madrid superstar Rodrygo is a player of interest, but a winter deal for the Brazilian seems unfeasible. Manchester City talent Savinho is also on the list, but the Brazilian's future hinges on a number of moving parts.

With this in mind, Tottenham are intensifying their efforts for RB Leipzig's rising star Yan Diomande, according to TEAMtalk, with the report noting he is one of the players they have 'looked' at.

Diomande, 19, has been one of the most exciting breakthrough stars in Germany this year, fast and furious and clinical in front of goal. He is valued at £80m already, and numerous elite outfits are interested too.

Why Spurs should sign Yan Diomande

Diomande is in the fledgling phase of his senior career, but sometimes you can just tell. Having left Leganes to sign for Leipzig during the summer, the Ivory Coast prospect has scored seven goals and supplied four assists across 16 matches in all competitions.

A versatile and dynamic winger, Diomande has been hailed as a "special, special footballer" by journalist and youth scout Antonio Mango, becoming an instrumental part of Leipzig's attack after a breakout year in Spain that saw him feature only ten times in La Liga, scoring twice.

Now, he sits at some high-ranking tables, with data-driven platform FBref revealing that across Europe's top five leagues, he ranks among the top 2% of positional peers for non-penalty goals, the top 6% for shot-creating actions, the top 3% for progressive carries, the top 1% for successful take-ons and the top 12% for tackles per 90.

A successful take-on is recorded when a player beats their opponent by directly carrying the ball past them while retaining possession.

Diomande would not only be an interesting Semenyo alternative but a player whose quality could see him take the throne as Spurs' best wide forward from the get-go, maybe even trumping Mohamed Kudus in that regard.

Kudus joined Tottenham from West Ham this summer for £55m, two years' Premier League under his belt. Though Tottenham's creative sharpness has lacked something this year, the Ghanaian has been a bright spark, endowed with such pace and directness down the right flank.

Manchester United's Bruno Fernandes is the only man to have racked up more assists so far this season, but Kudus has not been a relentless creator, and that's something he needs to work on.

He's a talented player, but Diomande's ceiling reaches a higher level, with coach Harry Brook of the opinion that he will "be worth £100m plus" down the line. His rip-roaring start to life in the Bundesliga certainly leans toward that outcome.

It says something of Diomande's potential that he is already being billed as a talent who could outstrip an established Premier League star such as Kudus.

The teenage talent has much still to learn, but even so, he would shine in Frank's Tottenham team, perhaps living up to the billing and becoming the talisman that the north Londoners have been craving since Heung-min Son left and Harry Kane before him.

Chelsea have now submitted an enquiry to sign a "fantastic" star, who recently turned down a move to Tottenham Hotspur, but there could be fierce competition for his signature...

Blues keen to strengthen squad amid Maresca uncertainty

Enzo Maresca claimed the 48 hours prior to the 2-0 victory against Everton earlier this month were his worst since taking over at Stamford Bridge, and Jamie Carragher went on to claim the Italian won't remain in west London beyond the end of the season.

The Sky Sports pundit said: "I don't think Maresca's manager at Chelsea next season. When you come out and speak about your ownership like that and you speak in public, that's a big problem.

"And it's not uncertain [who he is speaking about], he's speaking about the owner and the sporting directors."

Since then, there has been even more speculation about Maresca's future, with it being revealed Manchester City are targeting the 45-year-old as a successor to Pep Guardiola.

The prospect of taking over at City, who have won six of the last eight Premier League titles, would surely be enticing. However, should Chelsea show ambition in the transfer market, Maresca may be tempted to stay, and they have now submitted an enquiry over a January deal for AFC Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo.

That is according to an update from Sky Sports reporter Lyall Thomas on X, who states the Blues are now looking at the "conditions" of a deal, although there could be fierce competition for Semenyo's signature, with Manchester United, Manchester City and Liverpool keen.

Tottenham Hotspur were also in the race at one stage, but David Ornstein recently revealed the Ghanaian has now snubbed a move to north London.

Semenyo could be "fantastic" signing for Chelsea

On Tuesday morning, reporter Ben Jacobs revealed it is probable the 25-year-old will leave Bournemouth during the upcoming transfer window, but interested parties will have to move quickly, as the £65m release clause expires after ten days.

It is clear to see why the Bournemouth star is attracting such widespread interest, receiving high praise from Spurs boss Thomas Frank, who said: "Semenyo can play wherever he wants to play - he's a fantastic player. I think he's been the best individual player for Bournemouth this season."

Indeed, the Ghana international is versatile, having featured across the front three throughout his career, and he has chipped in with eight goals and three assists in the Premier League this season.

The former Bristol City man has also vastly outperformed his xG over the past year, averaging 0.36 non-penalty goals per 90, having been expected to average 0.24, which indicates he is a clinical finisher.

Liam Delap has struggled to make an impact this season, and Semenyo's goal record suggests he could be capable of pushing to start at striker for Chelsea.

It’s very rare in the modern professional game that footballers can spend a decade at the same club, but Heung-min Son managed just that for Tottenham Hotspur.

The South Korean joined the Lilywhites from Bayer Leverkusen back in the summer of 2015 as an unknown quantity to many supporters, but it’s safe to say he’s now one of the Premier League’s best-ever attackers.

The winger racked up over 450 appearances between 2015 and 2025 in North London, scoring 173 times, which ranks him fourth in the club’s all-time goalscoring charts.

However, Son would leave the side this summer in a £20m deal, subsequently joining MLS outfit LAFC, leaving new boss Thomas Frank with the mammoth task of replacing the fan-favourite.

He’s utilised numerous players in unfamiliar roles to try and soften the blow of his departure, but it could lead to a return to the transfer market to finally fill the void.

Spurs considering more for top-level left-wing talent

Over recent weeks, rumours have been circling over a potential deal for Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo after his incredible tally of eight goals and three assists this season.

However, the Ghanaian international is currently massively in demand, with Manchester City and Manchester United keen on triggering his £65m release clause.

Frank’s men were one of the sides also in the race to land the 25-year-old talent, but have since pulled out of the race, due to concerns over his lack of interest in a move to North London.

As a result, other targets have had to be considered in recent weeks, which has led to rumours over a deal to land Ajax star Mika Godts ahead of the January window.

According to TEAMtalk, the Lilywhites are very interested in signing him and have now been spotted scouting the Belgian over recent weeks. He's one of Europe's hottest prospects, registering seven goals and six assists in his 15 Eredivisie appearances.

The report also states his current employers want to keep hold of the 20-year-old, but they could be powerless if an acceptable offer presents itself in the coming months.

Why Godts would be a bigger talent than Semenyo for Spurs

Given the record produced by Semenyo in the Premier League this season, there’s little doubt that many Spurs fans will have wanted to secure a deal for his signature.

However, given his rejection over a move to North London, it’s crucial that the hierarchy act quickly on other targets to avoid suffering the same fate in the months ahead.

As previously mentioned, the left-wing position has been a huge issue in 2025/26, with Frank and the club desperately needing a solution in the upcoming window.

Whilst he features on the opposite side of the pitch, winger Brennan Johnson also looks set to depart the Lilywhites, which would no doubt further fuel the need for added reinforcements.

As a result, a deal for Godts this window could make perfect sense, with the 20-year-old being the ideal option for the immediate and long-term future in North London.

Whilst it’s unclear how much he would cost Frank’s men this window, he’s showcased his talents already this campaign, with his numbers highlighting the quality he possesses.

He’s even managed to outperform Semenyo in numerous key areas throughout 2025/26, which no doubt makes him a bigger talent for the years ahead.

Godts, who’s been described as a "huge talent" and as "one of the most interesting creative wingers in Europe" by scout Jacek Kulig, has registered more combined goals and assists to date, whilst also posting a better goal per shot on target rate.

Such numbers undoubtedly make him a bigger threat in front of goal than the Cherries star, something which the Lilywhites have desperately lacked - with only one player scoring more than five league goals this season.

The Belgian has also completed more progressive passes per 90, with more of his efforts being labelled as key passes - which could hand those around him the perfect chance to bolster their own tallies.

Godts best asset is undoubtedly his dribbling, which is demonstrated in his domination over Semenyo, subsequently registering more carries into the final third, whilst achieving a better take-on success rate.

He’s also added an end product to his game, as seen with his higher tally of crosses completed, which has no doubt allowed him to reach his incredible assist tally in 2025/26.

Whilst it’s unclear how much a deal for Godts would cost the Lilywhites board this winter, it’s clear that they would be landing an incredible talent in their quest for success.

Missing out on Semenyo will no doubt be a bitter blow, but it could prove to be a blessing in disguise if they are able to complete a deal for the Belgian in the coming weeks.

At just 20, he truly does have the world at his feet, with a move to the Premier League the perfect step to allow him to progress and develop into a world-class talent.

Tottenham Hotspur aren't in a fantastic spot at the start of the Christmas period. Thomas Frank's side have been inconsistent in the Premier League, only winning six of 17 matches, and thus, languish in 13th place.

This is actually an improvement on last year under Ange Postecoglou's wing, with the Europa League-winning manager's single-track-minded attack on the continental front coming at the expense of any kind of fluency in England.

Frank has been under-fire for much of his tenure this season, but Spurs have been through many head coaches in recent years, and the reins must not be taken from him until he has had long enough to build a lasting project.

Where, then, are the Lilywhites meant to go? Well, there's no question that Frank needs more leadership from his key personnel, and the recent loss to Liverpool raises the question as to whether Cristian Romero is the best fit to wear the armband.

Why Romero may not be the best fit as captain

Romero was aggrieved when Hugo Ekitike's goal was allowed to stand. The Argentina centre-back felt he had been shoved by the 23-year-old striker, and his every movement was trailed by a haze of red mist thereafter.

He was a ticking time bomb, and journalist Alex Crook even went down the incendiary route of labelling the 27-year-old as representing "all that's wrong with Tottenham".

That's somewhat harsh, as was the follow-up that the skipper is an "absolute liability". However, there is a truth in there, with Romero lacking the composure and subsequent calming effect on his teammates.

Heung-min Son led Spurs to a trophy, ending the club's interminable drought. Romero, perhaps, was the wrong man to don the armband after him, but Spurs do actually have a Romero upgrade cutting his teeth who may replace him in more ways than one down the line.

Spurs already have a Romero upgrade

The likes of Kevin Danso and Ben Davies make up numbers in the Tottenham senior squad, but neither of them is good enough to cement regular starting berths under Frank's wing.

However, with time and care and determination, Luka Vuskovic has what it takes to become a superstar down N17, a defender with the potential to leap past Romero and Micky van de Ven.

Aside from the fact that he's an elite prospect, Vuskovic has also been hailed as a "monster defender" and a "natural leader" by analyst Daniel Scouting, and his performances on loan in the Bundesliga with Hamburger SV have showcased his capacity to succeed in the Premier League.

His metrics already show him to have similarities and perhaps even gains on someone like Romero, winning an obscene amount of duels despite his youth.

He has the trappings of a colossal, world-class centre-back. Vuskovic is only 18. He truly has everything he needs to become a Premier League sensation, perhaps emulating Son before him in becoming a stalwart captain for Spurs. A "freak talent", as he has been called by analyst Ben Mattinson, the sky is the limit for this talented teenager.

Son left the club during the summer, and it's probably fair to say that Romero has not quite matched his influence in terms of influence as a captain, with his recent red card evidence of that.

Vuskovic is only young, but he could go from strength to strength not as a formidable defender but an all-inspiring leader besides. A future captain. After all, content creator Fiago has even claimed he's "the best 18-year-old center back I've ever seen in my life."

Vuskovic certainly has the skills, aggression and confidence to rival the likes of Romero in the future, and his natural-born leadership could see him prove an upgrade on a ferocious Argentine who is thwarted by his own recklessness and hot-headedness.

Last week, it was made known that Thomas Frank had sat down with ENIC Group and left that meeting with the backing of the Tottenham Hotspur board.

But, since then, the Londoners have fallen to another home defeat, this time against struggling Liverpool, and the pressure is unquestionably cranking up. Still, pundits like Jamie Redknapp have reiterated the stance that the Danish coach needs time to right the many wrongs down N17.

Redknapp is right, and Tottenham's star players need to step up. However, with the defenders leaving much to be desired, who is it within the Lilywhites squad who has what it takes to step up and guide the squad back to the forefront of Premier League football?

Who can lead Frank's Spurs side to success

In recent years, Tottenham have lost Harry Kane and Heung-min Son to overseas moves. It's difficult to argue that such talismanic figures have been effectively replaced.

Now, new stars need to step up. Whether Cristian Romero is the one to lead the charge is open to debate, with the Argentine skipper sent off after kicking out at Ibrahima Konate at the weekend.

Spurs need players to step up, leading the club to success after a first half of the 2025/26 campaign that has underlined the fact that there are too many pieces of driftwood about Frank's outfit.

Too often, Spurs have launched big-money bids for the likes of Richarlison and Dominic Solanke. Both arrived to the tune of £60m or so, and it's hard to argue that either striker has been a bona fide success.

The worst of the lot would have to be Tanguy Ndombele, who was the club-record arrival when he joined from Lyon for £63m in 2019.

Journalist Paul Brown called the lazy France midfielder "one of the worst signings Spurs have ever made". It would be hard to replicate such a dismal deal, but ENIC Group may be worried they have done exactly that this summer.

ENIC must worry they've signed Ndombele 2.0

The Lewis Family didn't enjoy a flawless summer transfer window by any stretch, but there's no question that the likes of Mohammed Kudus and Xavi Simons arrived as talented additions capable of driving Tottenham back into the domestic ascendancy.

Simons, 22, joined Tottenham from RB Leipzig for an initial £51m fee this summer, and his arrival caused a fanfare, given Chelsea had shown a vested interest for many months before.

However, it's been tough for the Dutchman to adapt to the pace and physicality of the Premier League, with content creator Ronaldo Brown even asserting that he has been "swallowed" in the English top flight this season.

Having started to kick on, Simons lunged too far against Liverpool, receiving red in the first half after a studs-up challenge against his Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk.

Branded for a moment of "reckless stupidity" by Sky Sports co-commentator Gary Neville, Simons will know miss a crucial run of fixtures after a recent uptick in form, scoring his first goals for the club in December and maintaining promising creative levels.

There's nothing wrong with Simons' application, but his over-zealousness and high technical bar suggest he may well have a bit of Ndombele-itis about him, and this is something that Frank will need to swiftly fix if his project is to be a success, having worked with the board to secure this coveted playmaker for a hefty fee.

After all, Simons ranks among the top 10% of positional peers in the Premier League this season for passes attempted, the top 6% for progressive passes and the top 14% for tackles per 90, as per FBref, so he's got the fullness of skillset to succeed.

A pass is considered progressive if the distance between the starting point and the next touch is at least 10 meters closer to the opponent's goal or any completed pass into the penalty area.

However, it could be said that the same was true for Ndombele. He's one of the most technically gifted players we've seen in Spurs colours this decade, but the application of his skillset was too inconsistent. He became an easy scapegoat and his time in the capital ended in tears and with a hefty dent in the club's wallet.

Spurs cannot afford to fall by the wayside here. Neither can Frank. Neither can Simons.

Tottenham and their search for a winger goes on after being told by Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo that he won't be arriving in north London.

Semenyo rejects Spurs as Frank scours for new attackers

As first revealed by the reliable David Ornstein, despite holding talks over personal terms, Semenyo has decided to reject Spurs' advances with Man City, Man United and Liverpool remaining in contention.

“Tottenham were very keen, and I’m led to believe were prepared to pay a significant salary to Antoine Semenyo, but he’s politely focusing on other options, mainly it seems City or United, and he will have to make a decision around that," Ornstein told NBC Sports this week.

“I think Arsenal might have looked at the situation, but more towards the summer, and I don’t think he’s willing to wait until that point.”

For the Lilywhites and Thomas Frank, it is back to the transfer drawing board as the club search for a new wide attacker who can provide that extra cutting edge in the final third.

Pressure is mounting on Frank after a poor run of five defeats in their last eight games, winning just two in that time, with the Dane under fire from large sections of the fanbase who feel he is not fit for the job.

Frank may also be about to lose co-sporting director Fabio Paratici, who's reportedly on the verge of a surprise move to Fiorentina just over two months after his return to N17 was announced.

If Paratici does return to Italy, it is down to Johan Lange and the rest of the recruitment team to ensure Frank is fully backed next month.

After being rejected by Semenyo, reports suggest that Tottenham are keen on Real Madrid winger Rodrygo, but Los Blancos are reluctant to sanction a mid-season exit after his recent return to prominence.

RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande has also held advanced discussions over a move to Spurs via his representatives, as per Sky Switzerland reporter Sacha Tavolieri, and he's still on their radar.

That is according to journalist Graeme Bailey, who's also lifted the lid on a new target with bags of potential.

Tottenham eyeing Ajax sensation Mika Godts after Antoine Semenyo blow

Bailey, writing for TEAMtalk, says Tottenham have identified Ajax winger Mika Godts as an alternative target after losing hope of signing Semenyo.

The 20-year-old, who has drawn comparisons to Eden Hazard, has emerged on the radar of Frank's side as they seek attacking reinforcements to arrest their disappointing campaign.

Spurs dispatched officials to assess Godts during Ajax's recent matches against Feyenoord and NEC, with the youngster providing an assist in a 2-0 win before scoring in a 2-2 draw.

The young left-winger has produced seven goals and six assists from 13 starts this season, establishing himself as one of the Dutch giants' key performers despite their own difficulties under interim manager Fred Grim.

Godts arrived from Genk two years ago as a teenager and has frequently been likened to Hazard due to his dribbling ability and playing style.

Frank had considered other options including Real Madrid's Rodrygo, though the Brazilian's recent form makes a January departure from the Bernabeu highly unlikely.

Leipzig would also demand an excessive fee for Diomande midway through the campaign, while City's Savinho signed a lengthy new deal recently which could elevate his price tag.

Several other Premier League clubs have sent representatives to watch Godts in recent weeks too, meaning Tottenham face competition for the Belgian's services.

Ajax want to keep their young talent, but their poor season could undermine their bargaining position if clubs test their resolve with significant bids next month.

Thomas Frank’s tenure as Tottenham Hotspur manager got off to the perfect start back in August, as he won each of his first two Premier League games in charge.

The Dane collected wins against Burnley and Manchester City, with the latter being away from home, showcasing the excellent work he conducted during his first few weeks.

However, the last few weeks haven’t been plain sailing for the 52-year-old in charge of the Lilywhites, subsequently winning just one of the last seven games in England’s top-flight.

His side have subsequently dropped into the bottom half of the table, which could even lead to a repeat of last season’s dismal finish under Ange Postecoglou.

With the January transfer market now approaching on the horizon, the board have the chance to back the manager in the market to help him in his quest for success in North London.

Spurs keen on a move for a UCL superstar

Over the last few weeks, Spurs have been on the hunt for a new winger, subsequently leading them to Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo, but competition is high for his signature.

Fellow Premier League clubs Manchester United and Manchester City have also been credited with an interest, with the player leaning towards a switch to either one of the aforementioned clubs.

It’s been reported that the Ghanaian international currently has a £65m release clause in his contract until the 10th of January, with any interested party needing to act quickly to secure his services.

As a result, the Lilywhites have been hunting for other alternatives, subsequently leading them back to Rodrygo after previously wanting to land the Brazilian in the summer.

According to TEAMtalk, Frank’s men have 'looked at' signing the winger ahead of January, but it’s unclear if Real Madrid would be willing to sanction a move in the winter.

The report doesn’t state whether a move would be a temporary or permanent one, but it could hand Frank the added attacking reinforcements he’s been craving in recent times.

Why Rodrygo would be Frank’s own answer to Semenyo

There’s no doubt that a deal for Semenyo would improve the options within the Spurs attacking third, which in turn could allow the club to rise up the Premier League table.

He’s already featured against the Lilywhites this campaign, helping the Cherries win 1-0 in North London, and showcasing what Frank’s side are missing out on.

However, it’s evident that the player has his heart set on a move to Manchester, which could see him torment the Lilywhites in the Premier League for many years to come.

£65m would be an excellent fee given his tally of eight goals and three assists to date, but ultimately, other targets are now having to be considered in the coming weeks.

However, during the next meeting, Frank could have his own version of the attacker in the form of Rodrygo - with the Brazilian possessing many similarities to Semenyo.

Like the Ghanaian international, he can operate in either wide position in the final third, either cutting inside off the left or driving across goal with his stronger right foot.

However, his underlying stats too showcase his talents, with many of which make him an excellent option for the Lilywhites for the second half of the campaign.

Rodrygo, who’s been dubbed “one of the best wingers in the world” by Spencer Mossman, has completed 90% of his passes this season, whilst also creating 2.1 chances in the process.

Both tallies rank him in the top 15% of all players in LaLiga to date, showcasing the excellent attacking option Frank’s men would be getting in the January transfer window.

He’s also completed 2.1 successful dribbles and notched 1.3 shots on target per 90, subsequently showcasing the threat he carries with the ball at his feet.

The Real Madrid talent has registered 8.3 touches in the opposition box per 90, whilst winning possession back 1.4 times per 90 in the final third - arguably being the perfect all-round attacker.

At this stage, it remains unclear whether the player himself would be open to a switch to North London, but it’s evident that Rodrygo would be a phenomenal addition this winter.

Missing out on Semenyo will likely be a bitter blow for Frank and the supporters, but if a deal is reached for the Brazilian in the weeks ahead - all will certainly be forgotten.

Tottenham Hotspur have been known to splash the cash in the attacking department over the last couple of years in an attempt to be successful in the Premier League.

After Thomas Frank took the reins during the summer transfer window, he was handed over £100m worth of funds to make the changes he desired.

Mohammed Kudus and Xavi Simons were both added to the Lilywhites squad, but have often found themselves struggling to produce consistent performances in North London.

The former of the duo hasn’t registered a league goal or assist in any of his last three matches, whilst the latter received a red card in last weekend’s meeting with Liverpool.

As a result, the Dane has made it clear he wants extra reinforcements during the winter window to help correct the recent slump in form within England’s top-flight.

Spurs want move for clinical Premier League talent

Over the last couple of months, Spurs have been just one of the clubs touted with a potential move to land Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo in the January window.

After it was confirmed that the 25-year-old had a £65m release clause in his contract, rumours massively built up pace, but now a deal appears somewhat unlikely.

It’s been reported that the Lilywhites are now set to miss out on the Ghanaian’s signature in the coming weeks, which has handed Manchester City and Manchester United a free run at a possible deal.

However, he’s not the only Premier League option currently in the hierarchy’s sights ahead of the winter window, with West Ham star Jarrod Bowen once again appearing on their radar.

According to TEAMtalk, the Lilywhites are keen on a deal to land the 29-year-old Englishman, who’s already scored five Premier League goals this campaign.

It also states that Spurs have been in contact with the Irons across the last four windows, but Nuno Espírito Santo’s side are reluctant to offload their star man during the upcoming window.

Previous reports have indicated Spurs may be willing to lodge a £60m offer for his services.

Why Bowen would be better than Semenyo for Spurs

During the 2025/26 campaign, Cherries star Semenyo has been one of the Premier League leading talents - as seen by his remarkable tally of goals and assists in the final third.

In his first 16 outings of the current season, the 25-year-old has already scored eight times and registered three assists - with such a tally the third highest of any player in the division.

He’s also netted numerous incredible efforts, including a superb solo strike on the opening day against Liverpool and a stunning byline effort against Fulham.

There’s no doubt he would be many of the supporters’ first choice this window, especially given his incredible efforts within the final third of the pitch this season.

However, a move for Bowen could prove to be a better option in the short-term at least, especially given his remarkable numbers in the Premier League over recent years.

The 29-year-old currently has a total of 61 goals in England’s top-flight, including a superb return of 16 strikes in his 34 appearances throughout the 2023/24 campaign.

Whilst he’s been outscored by Semenyo this season, Bowen has managed to outperform the Ghanaian international when comparing the pair’s respective stats in 2025/26.

The Hammers star, who’s been dubbed “sensational” by Ray Houghton, has posted a better goal per shot on target ratio in the Premier League this campaign.

Such a figure showcases that he’s able to take advantage of more of the chances which have fallen his way this season, arguably making him a more clinical option for Frank’s side.

He’s also posted a higher take-on success rate, whilst registering more carries into the final third per 90 - showcasing his ability to torment the opposition at any given moment.

Bowen’s ability to get past defenders is one thing, but he’s also been able to produce a better end product, as seen by his higher tally of crosses completed per 90.

Other stats, such as more shots taken and more fouls won per 90, showcase his all-round threat in the final third, with many backlines in the division often struggling to contain him.

After such a persistent effort to land the Englishman in recent years, January could present the perfect chance for Frank’s side to potentially make a move and land his signature.

It may be a deal that is unpopular with the fans, but the 29-year-old has constantly managed to provide the goods in the Premier League - something which is desperately needed within the current squad.

Tottenham face a crucial trip to Crystal Palace on Sunday as Thomas Frank's side desperately seek to halt their alarming slide down the Premier League table.

Spurs are sitting 13th after a turbulent campaign that has seen them win just six of their opening 17 league matches and lose five of their last eight top flight games.

The clash at Selhurst Park represents an opportunity for Frank to restore some confidence following Saturday evening's crushing 2-1 defeat to Liverpool, a result that left the manager under mounting pressure from supporters who have witnessed just two home league wins all season.

The loss to Liverpool proved particularly painful for Tottenham after they were reduced to nine men following red cards for Xavi Simons in the first half and Cristian Romero in stoppage time, with the Argentine captain losing his composure after winning a free kick and throwing a fit that earned him a second yellow.

Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitiké scored for the visitors before a late Richarlison consolation, condemning Spurs to another setback in what has become an increasingly inconsistent and error-strewn campaign under Frank.

Palace represent dangerous opponents for Tottenham, sitting five places above them, with Oliver Glasner's side possessing the pace and directness on the counter-attack to exploit Spurs' vulnerable backline.

Frank will also be without several key players through injury with James Maddison, Destiny Udogie, Dominic Solanke and Dejan Kulusevski all long-term absentees, while the suspensions for Simons and Romero further deplete his options for the crucial festive period.

Another player who's been sidelined almost all season, and yet to make a single competitive appearance under Frank, is Tottenham midfielder Yves Bissouma.

Spurs were open to offers for the 29-year-old in the summer and he has been repeatedly penalised for disciplinary issues behind-the-scenes, with reports suggesting the Lilywhites have decided to sell him next year.

While Bissouma's deal expires in 2026, Spurs do have an option to extend it by a further year, but before that, supporters and Frank will be hoping he can contribute on the pitch at some point first.

Tottenham midfielder Yves Bissouma could return from injury on Boxing Day

The former Brighton star, who played a key role in Spurs' Europa League final win against Man United in May, has been called up to represent Mali at AFCON regardless of his injury.

According to Pierrot Le Foot, Bissouma has been ruled out of their opening Group A fixture against Zambia this afternoon in Casablanca.

The national team captain is one of three key players unavailable for the Eagles, alongside central defender Sikou Niakate and experienced right-back Hamari Traore, leaving Mali manager Tom Saintfiet with significant selection headaches.

However, it is believed that Bissouma is on the verge of a return to action after resuming full training.

PLF report that Bissouma could play against Morocco on Boxing Day, or, failing that, against Comoros three days later.

“In many major tournaments, some players start with injuries and then become the most dangerous [for their team] in the quarterfinals, semifinals, or final," Mali boss Saintfiet told reporters.

"Hakimi is also on Morocco's roster, and there's a reason for that, because he's one of those great players who are important. Yves (Bissouma) is my captain; he's important, he's a leader of our team. But we didn't make this decision alone.

"Our doctor is in contact with Tottenham's medical staff. We have assurances that Yves will be ready during the tournament. When the matches become more difficult, we'll be glad to have him with us."

This could come as good news for Spurs, as once the AFCON tournament is over, Bissouma could well be available for selection by Frank — giving them another option in the engine room.

However, he hasn't exactly made the best impression since Frank's arrival due to his off-field antics, so it remains to be seen whether the tactician will trust in his services.