Football FanCast

Tottenham Hotspur still want to sign a forward.

Wanting a thing and getting it are two wholly different prospects when it comes to the January transfer window, though, especially when the market enters the final leg.

But with Fabrizio Romano confirming that Randal Kolo Muani is in Juventus' sights, the Italians hoping to see their former loanee's stint as Spurs cut short ahead of his return to Turin, there is hope that ENIC Group can pull off an exciting deal for an upgrade at number nine.

For sure, Thomas Frank and his beleaguered squad could do with an impactful addition in attack.

Spurs in talks to seal late attacking signing

Tottenham have been among the clubs angling for Jean-Philippe Mateta's signature this month, and while the French forward is likely to leave Selhurst Park, correspondent Alasdair Gold has confirmed he will not be headed for N17.

AC Milan are the frontrunners there, and Spurs already have an established Premier League goalscorer in Dominic Solanke, the 28-year-old finding form and fitness once again.

However, technical director Johan Lange has set his sights on an up-and-comer who has the potential to become a global superstar.

According to TEAMtalk, Tottenham are in talks with intermediaries who are trying to land Jhon Duran a move in the coming days, with the Al-Nassr striker currently out on loan in Turkey with Fenerbahce.

Duran, 22, left Aston Villa for Al-Nassr in a £64m package one year ago, having stormed into the ascendancy in the English Midlands.

Though French club Lille are believed to be in pole position to land the Colombian striker on a loan deal until the end of the season, a number of English suitors are in the mix, and if Juventus manage to get their hands on Kolo Muani, Spurs might just be in a position to pounce.

Why Jhon Duran could be perfect for Spurs

Duran has led a storied professional career, and he's still so young.

From a sporting standpoint, perhaps he made an ill-advised move to the Gulf, but his team's willingness to see him back in European competition suggests that he's got the hunger to pick up where he left off with Aston Villa.

Hailed by talent scout Jacek Kulig as a "true monster" for his terrifying attacking performances under Unai Emery's wing, Duran proved himself the ultimate super-sub, deadly when called into action off the bench.

His speed and killer instinct in the final third make him a force to be reckoned with, and Duran's ability to cause chaos when drawn from the substitute's bench could give Frank's side the edge they need while keeping Solanke happy as he grows back into his skin at the Spurs spearhead.

With this in mind, it's clear that Duran would prove the better signing than Mateta, who has been priced at £40m by Crystal Palace and would indeed want the top spot from Solanke.

The thing is, Mateta is actually quite similar to Spurs' number one forward, a powerful and tall striker capable of surging runs into the box. A focal point, and no mistake.

Moreover, Mateta's not exactly the most clinical goalscorer in the Premier League. He has scored eight times for Oliver Glasner's side this season, but he has also missed 16 big chances in the Premier League.

Duran only missed nine big chances in total across two-and-a-half years in the Premier League, scoring 12 goals in that period.

The left-footer's destructive shooting power is a unique thing. Perhaps it's somewhat Gareth Bale-esque.

Certainly, Duran is capable of a show-stopping finish, much like that of the iconic Welshman, who similarly used his strength and electric bursts of pace to find space in the danger area.

There is that shared knack for rifling home from range in a manner that leaves a goalkeeper looking rather helpless and foolish in equal measure, with both Bale and Duran almost unstoppable when at their best.

Tottenham have the means to fashion success over the business months of the season, and with a maverick such as Duran added to the mix, Frank might just land on the offensive formula to finally get this side back on track.

Tottenham Hotspur are running out of time to make something of the 2025/26 campaign, with Thomas Frank's side's confident Champions League efforts masking dismal domestic form that threatens all.

While Spurs are within climbing distance of the European positions in the Premier League, their form has been well below the expected standard this season, with only two wins across their past 14 league outings.

The current crop have enough about them to produce more convincing performances and results over the business months of the season, but there's no question that a bit of help before the transfer window closes wouldn't go amiss.

Where Spurs plan to strengthen before transfer deadline

Conor Gallagher was once described as being "like a machine" of a midfielder by Chelsea's Moises Caicedo, the Three Lions star's former teammate marvelling at his energy and intensity.

Gallagher adds dynamism and a multi-faceted approach to his Frank's midfield, but Spurs continue to toil in attack, and while Dominic Solanke's return to fitness and goalscoring form eases the need for a new centre-forward, creativity and pace are in short supply down the flanks.

After all, Brennan Johnson was sold at the start of the month, and Mohammed Kudus won't return from injury until after the March international break.

According to TEAMtalk, Tottenham are among the clubs to have enquired about the availability of Real Madrid attacker Brahim Diaz, but they have met Aston Villa and Newcastle in the waiting room, along with further foreign suitors, and thus must put their all into convincing the Moroccan to join their cause.

The 24-year-old is not getting regular minutes under Los Blancos coach Alvaro Arbeloa, so with the player's representatives sounding out options, the dynamic attacking midfielder is one to keep an eye on over the next few days.

Recent reports have suggested that any successful bid for Diaz would need to fall into the ballpark of £52m.

What Brahim Diaz would bring to Spurs

Diaz once plied his youthful trade with Manchester City, but he only featured 15 times for the first team before being sold to Real Madrid in a deal rising to £22m in January 2019.

Since then, he has played 141 times for the Spanish superpower, winning the Champions League and two La Liga titles. Moreover, he spent three years on loan with AC Milan between 2020 and 2023, and it was there that he was hailed as a "joy to watch" by talent scout Jacek Kulig.

Italian football expert Mina Rzouki has waxed lyrical about the fleet-footed winger's technical ability, and while he has struggled for consistent minutes in the Spanish capital, that is hardly a slight against his skill and potential yet to be tapped into.

Indeed, having only started three times in La Liga and once more on the continent this season, it's clear that Diaz needs a change of scenery, with his opportunities indeed dwindling since Xabi Alonso parted with Real Madrid one month ago.

Diaz is nothing if not versatile, and that is more fuel for the argument that he would be an invaluable addition to a Spurs side lacking dimensions in attack.

Such fluidity. With Kudus out injured, Diaz can offer support on the right. But he can also play from the left, sharing out the goals and assists as he works on creating a tactical relationship with the newly-signed Souza.

He may not feature centrally all that often, but the fact that he can do so, as a number ten or even in a makeshift centre-forward berth, is incredibly attractive for Frank as he works toward realising his vision in north London.

With all this in mind, the Real Madrid man may really secure himself a successful future in Tottenham's starting line-up. He knows the Premier League and has only come on leaps and bounds in the years since leaving.

Gallagher is shoring up Spurs' midfield, but they need an exciting profile such as this to return to form and create the kind of run that will see Frank keep his seat in the dugout.

Tottenham Hotspur have not enjoyed a strong and consistent run of form in the Premier League since the early days of Ange Postecoglou's tenure in 2023/24.

Thomas Frank was supposed to rewire the north London outfit, but his efforts to lead Spurs this season have been nothing short of dysfunctional, with a significant proportion of the fanbase eager to see him sacked.

To say it's currently untenable would not be an overstatement, and if Frank is to turn things around, he needs to quickly find results in the Premier League, with Spurs 14th and out of both domestic cups.

ENIC Group have backed him in the transfer market this month, signing Conor Gallagher and young left-back Souza, but Tottenham still need more creative impetus if they are to turn things around.

Spurs lining up new playmaker

Even though James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski have been sidelined since last season, Tottenham should be offering more through their playmaking.

But, alas, the Lilywhites have flattered to deceive in attack, with Frank's overly pragmatic tactics leaving the fans infuriated. There is a feeling that Spurs, Europa League champions, are regressing.

Gallagher is an industrious midfielder who will prove an upgrade on the injured Rodrigo Bentancur, but Frank needs someone to promote creativity and instil confidence and composure across the ranks, and technical director Johan Lange may have found the perfect option.

According to CF Bayern insider Christian Falk, Tottenham are hoping to sign Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka, who this month has rejected a move to Atletico Madrid in La Liga.

Goretzka, 30, is one of the most accomplished German players in the world, and Atletico chiefs have been in Munich this week to engineer a deal, with Goretzka now months away from his contract expiry in the Bundesliga.

But the experienced Champions League star's rejection has opened the door for Tottenham to strike a deal, most likely at the end of the season, for the player has expressed a desire to try his hand in the Premier League at this seasoned stage of his career.

How Leon Goretzka could revive Spurs

It is worth noting that earlier in January, Tottenham had shown a vested interest in signing Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones, who has since been on Inter Milan's radar.

Jones, 25, is elite at ball retention, and he's started to add more creativity to his game under Arne Slot's wing. You can see why Spurs want him, with one Premier League analyst even going as far as to call him "one of the most underrated players in England”.

Liverpool don't want to sell this month, but Tottenham may look to revisit their bid for the England international at the end of the season, when he has just 12 months left of his contract.

However, Tottenham may hit a bigger vein of gold in the form of Goretzka, who doesn't have as much mileage in the tank but would bring a strong passing game and combative side to revive Frank's system. Most importantly, the veteran would add leadership, having starred for years in a Bayern side who have won so many trophies.

A steely and tenacious midfielder, Goretzka has the right kind of skillset for a central role in a Frank-led team, but it's his range of distribution which sets him apart and could see him thrive alongside Gallagher, with Joao Palhinha mopping up from behind.

Not only has he averaged a 92.8% pass completion rate in the German top flight this season, but the strong-muscled talent has completed 72% of his long passes and 100% of his dribbles. In this, he has the progressiveness that drew the Spurs chiefs to Jones' signature.

Tottenham have a lot of up-and-coming talent. In Lucas Bergvall, there is a player who could outstrip both Jones and Goretzka. But not yet.

If the woes of the past 18 months have taught us anything, it's that the Londoners need players who can provide instant relief, establishing consistency and fluidity between the thirds.

Fabrizio Romano has shared a Tottenham transfer update involving a 'complete' Liverpool player as we approach the final two days of the window.

Throughout this month, the Lilywhites have been no strangers to knocking on the door at Anfield.

Spurs attempted to strike a January deal for left-back Andy Robertson after Ben Davies' season-ending ankle injury, pushing forward plans to sign him in the summer to this month.

The Scotland and Anfield legend, who has made 365 appearances for the Reds and won multiple Premier League titles, not to mention a Champions League medal, is poised to leave for nothing at the end of the season.

While Robertson would be a stellar opportunity at zero transfer cost later this year, Spurs sensed an opportunity to bring him in early doors, and even agreed a £5 million deal in principle.

The 31-year-old was reportedly very open to the idea of a London switch as well, but given Liverpool's difficulty sourcing a replacement, neither the player nor the Reds signed off on a move.

It remains to be seen whether this possibility could open up again in the next 48 hours, but Romano now claims that Robertson wasn't the only Liverpool player who was attracting serious attention from Spurs this month.

Fabrizio Romano makes Tottenham transfer claim involving Curtis Jones

Speaking on his YouTube channel, the reliable journalist shared news that midfielder Curtis Jones was also a hot topic in north London before they snapped up ex-Chelsea captain Conor Gallagher.

"I can reveal to you that Tottenham were very aggressive on Curtis Jones," explained Romano.

"At the beginning of the transfer window, but then they signed Conor Gallagher, but Tottenham were interested."

The 25-year-old is now being linked with a high-profile move to Serie A heavyweights Inter Milan, but reports suggest the Nerazzurri will fall short as Liverpool have no plans to sell.

Jones has made 20 league appearances for Liverpool this season but has started just half of them, and with the World Cup fast approaching, he's in a race against time to convince England boss Thomas Tuchel.

The versatile ace, who can also play across the forward line, has been lavished with praise by Arne Slot in recent seasons.

Tottenham are eyeing up a late January move to sign a former Arsenal forward who's 'ready to sign' for around £108,000-per-week, according to a new report.

Spurs have been fairly modest so far this window out of all the Premier League clubs when it comes to transfer activity, securing midfielder Conor Gallagher and left-back Souza whilst offloading Brennan Johnson to Crystal Palace.

However, going by recent reports, Thomas Frank's squad rebuilding appears far from finished as deadline day approaches.

The north Londoners confirmed Gallagher's £34 million arrival from Atlético Madrid mid-January, beating Aston Villa to the England international's signature after both clubs submitted proposals to the Spanish side.

Gallagher signed a five-and-a-half-year contract, bringing Premier League experience spanning 136 appearances across spells with West Brom, Crystal Palace and Chelsea before his £38 million Madrid move in summer 2024.

Frank described his new signing as "a top midfielder, who we have worked tirelessly to add to our squad," highlighting Gallagher's leadership qualities, pressing ability and running power as crucial attributes for Tottenham's needs.

The 25-year-old's arrival addressed an urgent need following Rodrigo Bentancur's hamstring injury, though questions persist regarding whether his combative profile resolves Spurs' creativity.

Tottenham simultaneously secured 19-year-old Brazilian left-back Souza from Santos for £13 million, with the defender signing a long-term contract.

Souza enjoyed a breakout 2025 season, starting 19 league matches and frequently linking with Neymar on the flank before the veteran's injury problems.

The acquisition future-proofs Spurs' left-back position following Ben Davies' recent ankle fracture and Destiny Udogie's injury proneness, though that didn't stop Tottenham trying their hand at a deal for Liverpool legend Andy Robertson.

Johnson's £35 million departure to Palace represented significant business, with the Welsh winger having fallen foul of Frank's plans despite finishing 24/25 as their top scorer and bagging the Europa League final winner.

As Monday's deadline approaches, multiple attacking injuries, including star winger Mohammed Kudus recently, highlight the need for another attacking option.

While Tottenham are believed to have been rebuffed in an approach to sign Serge Gnabry recently, they may have better luck snapping up another ex-Arsenal forward.

Tottenham eye late January move for Raheem Sterling

That man is free agent Raheem Sterling, who mutually agreed to terminate his £325,000-per-week Chelsea contract earlier this week.

According to CaughtOffside, Spurs have expressed interest in Sterling following his Stamford Bridge exit, though they face significant competition from London rivals West Ham, Fulham, Crystal Palace and Brentford.

Sterling's situation offers unique appeal given he is 'ready to sign' for dramatically reduced wages — from his mammoth figures at Chelsea to below 'one-third' of that amount — roughly £108,000-per-week.

His representatives are also believed to be holding discussions with seven to eight clubs.

The 31-year-old prioritises remaining in London for family reasons whilst seeking regular football ahead of this summer's World Cup, giving Spurs a potential opportunity despite his previous struggles at Cobham, where he managed 19 goals and 15 assists in 81 appearances.

Foreign clubs including Juventus, Napoli, Bayern Munich and Roma monitor Sterling's availability, alongside MLS approaches, though the England international's preference is to compete at elite European level.

The ex-Man City and Liverpool star is part of the division's 100 club for goals scored and a serial winner, not to mention blessed with proven top-level experience.

In terms of an attitude for the dressing room, Sterling could give Frank's side a major lift in that sense, but there is also a serious case to be made that his best days are long gone.

Tottenham Hotspur supporters will be taking solace from their team's excellent Champions League campaign, having stormed into a top-eight finish to close out the group phase, thus avoiding an unwanted extra knockout round.

But that success is tempered by the many problems Thomas Frank's side are facing on the domestic front, having been knocked out of the Carabao Cup and FA Cup while flattering to deceive in the Premier League, 14th after 23 matches.

Though ENIC Group have green-lit moves for Conor Gallagher and left-back Souza already this month, there remains an appetite for a new winger, but the recently-linked Raheem Sterling might not be the solution.

Spurs lining up move for new winger

There's no question that the Spurs fanbase is collectively fed up. Any joy from last year's Herculean effort to win the Europa League has tapered away by the return to miserable performances. The chances of winning silverware this season are negligible, and hopes of playing in Europe next year are dwindling away too.

It's difficult to see how Sterling will make a significant attacking impact. While the England winger is a free agent after his contract with Chelsea was terminated this month, he flattered to deceive on loan at Arsenal.

The 31-year-old pocketed an extortionate £325k-per-week salary at Stamford Bridge, and he'll want something not too far removed from that figure.

As it stands, Sterling looks like the most likely winger to strengthen Frank's side this winter.

However, according to The Independent's Miguel Delaney, Tottenham are prepared to rival Inter Milan for Al Ittihad winger Moussa Diaby, who is open to returning to Europe after leaving Aston Villa for Saudi Arabia in July 2024 for a £50m fee.

Tottenham want to sign the 26-year-old before the February 2nd deadline, but with Inter considered favourites and time running out, technical director Johan Lange is going to need to roll up his sleeves.

Why Spurs should sign Diaby

Diaby only spent two seasons in the Premier League, and while it wasn't all sunshine and rainbows during his spell with Aston Villa, the France international scored ten goals and supplied 11 assists across the 2023/24 campaign, helping the Villans to a remarkable Champions League finish.

While Sterling has more pedigree in the English game, it's worth reiterating that Diaby is still only 26, hailed for his "deadly" instinct in the final third by talent scout Jacek Kulig.

Moving to Tottenham could be the perfect career move for him, opening up the possibility of becoming a talisman for a team crying out for artistic inspiration down the attacking wings.

His impressive link-up play and capacity on either side further underlines Tottenham's interest, and given that Mohammed Kudus is out for the next few months with a hamstring problem, this could be the order of the day for Frank as he pushes to resurrect his Spurs tenure.

Diaby, who was once praised as being "fearless" by Chronicle editor Aaron Stokes, hasn't scored with the greatest regularity in the Saudi Pro League, but he has starred in a playmaking role, notching 27 assists across 53 matches, scoring eight goals too.

However, looking at how the Frenchman performed during his final term in the Premier League might act as a more accurate gauge of how he would impact the north London side, especially when collating that information against Raheem Sterling's performances with Arsenal last year.

Sterling was once a menace, so purposeful and slippery as he wove into the danger area for Manchester City. He won it all under Pep Guardiola's management.

But Sterling's time has passed, and signing him would not give Frank's project the hit it needs. Diaby, however, has plenty of mileage in the tank.

Tottenham Hotspur have now been contacted with a fresh opportunity to sign a Real Madrid attacker, according to recent reports.

Frank: "Lewis family is super committed" to project

After using the Champions League to get back to winning ways once again, Thomas Frank will be desperate to replicate Tottenham's European form in the Premier League.

Up next, the Lilywhites square off against Manchester City in the hope that they can prove to be a thorn in Pep Guardiola's side for the umpteenth time.

The challenge, though one that Spurs have surprisingly overcome numerous times over the years, is likely to test the depths of Frank's squad yet again following recent injuries.

He told reporters in the build-up: “I think we lost, I can’t remember, six or seven players inside three weeks in January? That’s crazy.

“There were definitely too many, so yeah of course (the squad) it’s weaker than we started the first of January. I can promise that the Lewis family is super committed to this project.

"They want to do everything and I would go against my rule, hopefully only once, that there’s no doubt it’s clear that the club wants to sign Semenyo. They did everything. I think that’s a clear signal that the Lewis family is very committed."

Of course, it's not just a big week on the pitch, either. Away from the action, Spurs are running out of time to welcome additional reinforcements.

To that end, those in North London have reportedly set their sights on late moves for a number of players - including the likes of Raheem Sterling, who is now a free agent - and Real Madrid's Brahim Diaz.

Tottenham offered chance to sign Brahim Diaz

As reported by TeamTalk, Tottenham have now been offered the chance to sign Diaz from Real Madrid this month and have launched a late enquiry as a result.

The attacking star has failed to move into Alvaro Arbeloa's starting side since returning from AFCON and intermediaries are now exploring a January exit.

Spurs' attack has been the element which has fallen most under Frank, despite welcoming Randal Kolo Muani and chief creator Xavi Simons in the summer.

It's a problem which could force their hand in the transfer market in the hope that Diaz puts AFCON heartbreak behind him and returns to the Premier League.

If Spurs were to sign the Madrid man, they'd be getting one over on both Newcastle United and Aston Villa, who are also reportedly chasing a last-minute deal this month.

The Magpies were reportedly in pole position to sign Diaz earlier this week as they look to boost their own attacking options, but could now see their move hijacked by those in North London. It would be an all too familiar story for Eddie Howe.

One Bayern Munich star is 'very much' keen on joining Tottenham, with the likelihood of a January transfer also revealed after a key decision.

Spurs knocked back in pursuit of late January deals

Thomas Frank still has room left in his squad for a key late addition or two, but as things stand, the Lilywhites are no closer to making their third signing of the window.

Reports earlier this week suggested that Tottenham were in the race for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, but the Frenchman now looks poised to join AC Milan instead, unless Spurs or Nottingham Forest spring a last-gasp surprise.

The north Londoners have been linked with a few other big attacking names too, like Bayern's Serge Gnabry, but the former Arsenal star apparently rejected an approach from them as he holds talks to extend his deal.

Spurs are bereft of forward options right now, with Mohammed Kudus, Richarlison, James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski all injured alongside Rodrigo Bentancur, Pedro Porro, Lucas Bergvall and Ben Davies.

Tottenham's eight-man absentee list is a major headache for Frank, who's dealing with similar problems Ange Postecoglou had last season when it comes to player availability.

The Lewis family, Vinai Venkatesham and sporting director Johan Lange have responded by signing ex-Chelsea captain Conor Gallagher in a £35 million deal from Atlético Madrid and young Brazilian left-back Souza, but they need more bodies.

Tottenham did agree a deal in principle for Liverpool and Scotland legend Andy Robertson, worth around £5 million, but the move has currently stalled due to neither the player nor Arne Slot's side giving their final green-light.

Liverpool need a replacement before sanctioning Robertson's switch to London, with the veteran defender wanted as cover for Davies.

Spurs also attempted to shore up their midfield with a January approach for Bayern star Leon Goretzka this week.

Marca journalist Matteo Moretto shared news of Tottenham contact with Goretzka, who's won the Champions League with Bayern alongside six Bundesliga titles.

However, the 30-year-old serial winner has decided to stay at Bayern until the summer, when he will leave the Allianz Arena as a free agent.

Leon Goretzka makes January decision but fancies Tottenham move

That being said, a move to Tottenham is very much on the cards for Goretzka later this year, according to Bayern insider Christian Falk.

According to his information, the Germany international is 'very much' keen on the idea of joining Tottenham this summer when his deal expires.

Falk also says that Tottenham's interest would've played a key role in him deciding to wait until the next window, as he'll be free to join them without any club-to-club transfer fees blocking his path.

"In my view, I think there’s a big wish to join the Premier League," Falk said.

"I’m told Tottenham are one of the clubs interested in Leon Goretzka. So, I think this was also in the midfielder’s mind when he decided to avoid a January switch. In the summer, he’ll be free to join any club he’d like, and I think Tottenham is very much one of the clubs he’s interested in."

While Goretzka is believed to be on a staggering £300,000-per-week pay packet at Bayern, Spurs won't have to worry about matching that when he leaves as a free agent.

What they will have to worry about, though, is the stiff competition for his signature, mostly from Atletico, who apparently pushed to secure the former Schalke star this month.

There is a general acceptance that Thomas Frank's tenure at the Tottenham Hotspur helm has become untenable.

The boos are as loud as they are constant, and laced with an acidity that makes it crystal-clear how the fanbase feel as their outfit limp through the 2025/26 campaign.

While Conor Gallagher and young left-back Souza have been added to the ranks this month, there remains a huge hole in regard to attacking quality, and this needs rectifying before next week's transfer deadline.

Spurs plan on signing a winger

Tottenham have a number of areas that need filling, but Dominic Solanke's return to fitness and form has at least tempered the urgency to sign a centre-forward.

Expected Goals (xG) is a metric designed to measure the probability of a shot resulting in a goal.

However, Tottenham need creativity and dynamism down the flanks, having sold Brennan Johnson to Crystal Palace at the start of the transfer window before losing Mohammed Kudus to a hamstring injury. The Ghanaian will not return before the end of the March international break.

One name that has emerged recently belongs to Raheem Sterling, with the Daily Mail revealing the free agent is on ENIC Group's radar after seeing his contract at Chelsea mutually terminated.

After a disappointing loan spell with Arsenal last season, the experienced England international has been firmly on the fringes, yet to play a minute of football this season.

But the Daily Mail's revelation comes after Sky Sports broke the news that multiple Champions League clubs are in talks with the 31-year-old's representatives,

What Raheem Sterling would bring to Spurs

Frank might be on board with the potential signing of Sterling, once one of the most feared forwards in the Premier League, but he's looked past his best for a while now, and this could prove the final nail in the coffin for the Danish coach.

Sterling only started seven top-flight fixtures under Mikel Arteta's management, and he did not find the back of the net. He once scored bucketloads for Pep Guardiola's Manchester City, but the dynamic winger lacks his one-time sharpness in front of goal, actually failing to hit double digits in both of his league campaigns at Stamford Bridge.

Should Tottenham go ahead with this deal, it might see Sterling become N17's new version of Gareth Bale, who was once one of the best players in the world but moved back to Tottenham in a romantic loan spell at the end of his career in 2020/21, scoring a few but probably not performing to the talismanic level that fans had hoped to see, alongside Harry Kane and Heung-min Son.

In his heyday, Bale was a force to be reckoned with, one of the finest forwards to ever grace Premier League grass.

But his return to north London left something to be desired, even if he made gains after a difficult start to the season under Jose Mourinho.

Even though the legendary Welshman returned prolifically and maintained comparative levels of fitness, he had clearly gone past his sell-by date, and given that Spurs paid £260k per week for their one-time prodigy, as per BBC Sport, it's hard to argue they got bang for their buck when he only started ten times in the Premier League.

In this, Sterling could mimic the retired winger, having played fewer minutes over the past couple of years, and a shadow of his Manchester City self during those first days as a Chelsea star. He was still capable of "doing superstar things", according to journalist Carl Anka, but lacked the consistency and athleticism when at his peak.

The similarities between him and Bale grow. It would be a move freighted with potential risks, and one that Tottenham should avoid.

If Frank is to turn things around at Tottenham, he's going to need to rally his troops and lift them to a higher standard over the business months of the campaign.

After several disappointing years, it's hard to see how Sterling will offer the solution.

Tottenham have signed a West Ham rising star after the player's camp pushed for a move, according to reliable Hammers insider ExWHUemployee.

Tottenham in race against the clock to strengthen squad

After completing deals for Conor Gallagher and Souza earlier in January, reports suggest Spurs may not be done there, but they'll have to act quickly.

Gallagher was the Lilywhites' headline deal, with the England international bringing Premier League pedigree and leadership qualities following his diminished role at Atlético Madrid.

Gallagher managed just four La Liga starts this season despite impressing in his debut campaign under Diego Simeone.

Frank beat Aston Villa to Gallagher's signature, with Tottenham's Champions League participation and bigger spending power reportedly proving decisive.

The former Chelsea captain also provides crucial depth following Rodrigo Bentancur's three-month injury lay-off.

Brazilian teenager Souza, who arrived from Santos for around £13 million, was next.

The 19-year-old left-back represents a long-term investment, though his signing gained added significance following Ben Davies' season-ending ankle fracture against West Ham.

That being said, Tottenham's stalled talks for Liverpool defender Andy Robertson suggest that the north Londoners don't view Souza as an immediate first-team upgrade.

Some reports suggest a deal isn't completely off the table for Robertson after Spurs agreed a deal in principle for the Scotland legend worth around £5 million, but the Reds need to bring in a replacement first.

Tottenham are languishing in mid-table after a disappointing debut campaign for Thomas Frank, with the club sitting closer to relegation than they are a top four place.

While Spurs have cruised into the Champions League knockout rounds, their sub-par domestic form hasn't been good enough, with Frank's side also out of both cups.

Nevertheless, they continue planning for the future too, and it is now believed they've snapped up a very highly-rated talent from London rivals West Ham.

Tottenham sign young West Ham striker Elisha Sowunmi

As per ExWHUemployee, young Irons striker Elisha Sowunmi has now joined Tottenham after free-scoring at academy level.

His remarkable productivity attracted serious attention from Celtic too, but according to Ex, it is Spurs who've won the race for his signature.

Speaking on his Patreon, via West Ham Way, the insider states that Sowunmi has already joined Tottenham after his agents pushed for a move.

What's more, 'prolific' Spurs sensation Frankie Day will also still be going the other way.

“West Ham academy player Elisha Sowunmi has left the club to join Spurs,” Ex said.

“The player had 5 months of his contract left and would have been a free agent in the summer after his agents pushed for a move for him. By letting him go now, West Ham have secured a sell-on clause if the player should leave Spurs for money in the future.

“Frankie Day, in an unconnected move, is said to be going the other way from Spurs to West Ham – once the 5 step registration process has been passed.”

The 18-year-old emerged as one of West Ham's brightest academy prospects in recent years following his exceptional performances across youth levels.

Indeed, the versatile forward crowned himself the Under-18s' leading marksman last season, delivering 16 goals and five assists throughout all competitions.

Sowunmi could be one to watch in the future, with Tottenham pouncing on an opportunity to bring him in.