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Tottenham Hotspur are now "pushing to sign" a £70m "beast" who is "very open to a move to Spurs" this summer, Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg has revealed.

Richarlison and Son Heung-min's futures up in the air

Despite an impressive 2023-24 campaign, it would be fair to say that Richarlison hasn't exactly set the world alight since making the move from Everton, and the Brazilian once again struggled to make an impact last season after struggling with injuries.

As such, Tottenham have now made the decision to transfer list the striker, amid interest from Galatasaray and Saudi Arabia, with talks over a potential exit being held over the course of the past month.

Consequently, one of Thomas Frank's main tasks this summer could be to bring in a replacement, and a £32m offer has now been submitted for Fulham's Rodrigo Muniz, who is also attracting attention from newly-promoted Leeds United.

There has also been speculation surrounding Son Heung-min's future, with the captain at one stage said to have been close to an exit, and Spurs are now looking at bringing in a long-term replacement for the South Korean.

According to an update from Plettenberg on X, Tottenham are now "pushing to sign" West Ham United winger Mohammed Kudus, who is "very open to a move to Spurs" this summer.

Negotiations are currently ongoing with West Ham, as Spurs "really want" to get a deal over the line, but there could be competition from clubs in the Saudi Pro League.

However, Kudus has aspirations of playing at the highest level in Europe, indicating the Lilywhites could be well-placed to win the race for his signature, with Champions League football set to be on offer at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium next season.

"Beast" Kudus could be exciting signing for Spurs

A deal for the Ghanaian is likely to be on the expensive side, with reports suggesting the Hammers could hold out for £70m, but there are plenty of signs that he could be an exciting addition to Frank's squad.

The 24-year-old is a particularly impressive dribbler of the ball, placing in the 97th percentile for successful take-ons over the past year, when compared to other wingers, while he has also displayed an ability to create chances and score goals.

Indeed, the West Ham star regularly contributed with goals and assists during his first season in England, picking up 17 goal contributions in the Premier League, while finding the back of the net five times in the Europa League.

Chelsea have now approached the agents of a Tottenham Hotspur target, with the west Londoners looking to hijack their London rivals, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has revealed.

Blues looking to sign winger amid Madueke uncertainty

Madueke has featured regularly for the Blues at the Club World Cup, appearing in four of their five matches up to this point, but it now appears as though the winger could be heading for the exit door, amid major interest from Arsenal.

That is according to an update from Florian Plettenberg on X, with the Sky Sports reporter revealing that talks are set to take place at some stage this week, while also adding: "Arsenal have reached a full agreement with Madueke until 2030, after making their official bid days ago, as revealed. The 23 y/o winger is currently focused on the Club World Cup with Chelsea. Price valuation: around €60m."

Of course, Enzo Maresca is already blessed with a plethora of options in attack, with Jamie Gittens and Joao Pedro recently arriving at Stamford Bridge, but Romano has revealed that another winger is now being targeted.

Taking to X, the transfer expert outlined Mohammed Kudus as a target for Chelsea this summer, saying: "Tottenham are set to bid again for Mohammed Kudus next week as player’s keen on joining Spurs. Chelsea have also been in touch with Kudus’ camp with more clubs also interested, but Spurs want to accelerate. Thomas Frank already approved Kudus as key target."

As things stand, Spurs appear to be more advanced in their pursuit of the West Ham United star, but there is certainly interest on the Blues' behalf, having approached his agents over the possibility of a deal, which could amount to around £70m.

"Electric" Kudus could be ideal Madueke replacement

With Madueke seemingly heading for the exit door, it would make sense to bring in a like-for-like replacement for the England international, and there are indications that Kudus could be an ideal addition to the squad.

Much like the London-born winger, the Ghanaian's main position is right-wing, while he is also a very impressive dribbler of the ball, having received praise for his ability to drive at opposition defences from analyst Raj Chohan.

Host Dan Woffenden was also enamoured by the forward's performances in the 2023-24 campaign, describing him as "electric" in February 2024, at which point the West Ham star was leading the way for successful take-ons in the Premier League.

Kudus clearly has the tools to succeed at Stamford Bridge, but there are doubts over whether he would be a necessary signing, given that Chelsea have already spent big this summer, and a deal for the Hammers forward is likely to be on the expensive side.

It would be fair to say that, thus far, this hasn't been a great transfer window for Tottenham Hotspur.

While their Premier League rivals have been making impressive signings left, right, and centre, Thomas Frank has been left waiting for the club to make another move after signing Mathys Tel on a permanent deal.

Worse yet, North London rivals Arsenal appear to have awoken from their slumber as well, and are starting to make waves in the market, most notably regarding the potential signing of Viktor Gyokeres.

However, things may soon be about to change, as reports have linked the Lilywhites to a Premier League star who could be Frank's answer to the Sporting CP star.

Spurs target their own Viktor Gyokeres

Given their truly diabolical form in the competition last season, it makes sense that Spurs would be targeting some of the Premier League's most exciting talents this summer.

However, thus far, the Europa League champions haven't been able to secure any signatures, with Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo still looking more likely to join Manchester United over them, and Antoine Semenyo putting pen to paper on a new deal at Bournemouth.

Even Eberechi Eze, who was once again linked with the club this year, now looks like he could be joining Arsenal, alongside Gyokeres.

Yet, there is still reason to be optimistic, as the Lilywhites close in on a key target, a Premier League star who could be their answer to the Swede: Mohammed Kudus.

Yes, according to a recent report from transfers expert Fabrizio Romano, Spurs have maintained their intense interest in the West Ham United ace.

In fact, the Italian journalist claims the Ghanaian is now a "top target and a crucial target" for Frank and that even though their initial offer of £50m was rejected, they will bid again.

In terms of the final price, it has been reported elsewhere that the Hammers may be holding out for a fee in the region of £65m.

It appears that this would be a complicated and costly transfer to complete this summer, but one Spurs should fight to secure, especially as Kudus could be their Gyokeres.

Why Kudus could be Spurs' Gyokeres

The first thing to say is that, yes, Kudus and Gyokeres are fundamentally different players and occupy very different roles within their respective squads.

However, when we say the former could be Spurs' answer to Arsenal signing the latter, we are not talking or even thinking about where they play.

Instead, the point is that, in a similar way to how the Swede is likely to transform the Gunners' attack and potentially their fortunes next season, the Ghanaian star has the ability to do the same for the Lilywhites.

For example, while it's certainly the case that his return of five goals and four assists in 35 appearances last season was underwhelming, his output the year before was nothing short of superb.

In 48 appearances, totalling 3781 minutes, the "generational talent," as dubbed by journalist Gary Al-Smith, scored 18 goals and provided ten assists.

In other words, the Accra-born monster averaged a goal involvement every 1.71 games, or every 135.03 minutes, which is the sort of output that could fire Spurs up the table next season.

Furthermore, in addition to incredible ability in front of goal, the former Ajax gem can play anywhere from right wing to attacking midfield and even centre-forward, in turn giving Frank so many tactical options.

Finally, if you are still unconvinced over his game-changing potential, then you need only look at some of his underlying numbers.

Despite not having the best campaign in terms of output, FBref still ranked the international ace in the top 3% of attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe's top five leagues for take-ons attempted and successful take-ons, as well as the top 6% for pass completion and goal-creating actions from long shots, among other metrics, all per 90.

Ultimately, Kudus may not have been at his very best last season, but the talent is there, and in the right environment, he could be utterly game-changing, and in a way, Spurs' answer to Gyokeres moving to the red side of North London.

Having already set their sights on Mohammed Kudus, Tottenham Hotspur are now reportedly targeting a move worth £35m to sign a goalscoring midfielder ahead of Manchester United.

Tottenham readying second Kudus bid

The Lilywhites are wasting no time in pursuit of West Ham United's Kudus. After the Hammers reportedly rejected their opening offer, those in North London are reportedly already readying a second bid. This time, they'll have to table more than £50m, but with the winger keen on the move, Spurs will hope to get their second deal of the summer over the line.

Even if Kudus does join Matthys Tel on Spurs' list of incomings, however, Daniel Levy still has plenty of work to get done if Thomas Frank is to avoid the same fate as Ange Postecoglou.

With that said, the Lilywhites have also reportedly set their sights on the likes of Daizen Maeda and even Inter Milan's Denzel Dumfries. The latter would particularly stand out as an excellent addition following his role as Inter reached the Champions League final last season. Compared to current options, the Dutchman would add plenty of competition.

Up against Pedro Porro for a starting role, Dumfries would likely hand Frank quite the selection headache and although any reports remain at an early stage, he could be one to watch.

The same can be said about another impressive star too, who has also found himself on Spurs' radar as they look to kick on with their summer business.

Tottenham now targeting Orkun Kokcu swoop

As reported by Caught Offside, Tottenham are now targeting a move to sign Orkun Kokcu in a summer swoop which will cost just €40m (£35m) if they push on and secure a deal ahead of Manchester United.

The Benfica man is at the peak of his powers at 24 years old and is attracting plenty of attention as a result. Having scored an impressive 12 goals and created a further 11 assists from midfield in all competitions last season, to say that he would hand Spurs a much-needed threat in the middle of the park would be an understatement.

U23 scout Antonio Mango was full of praise for Kokcu back in 2022, describing him as a "great midfielder" with "brilliant ball control", and he has only kicked on since swapping Feyenoord for Benfica two summers ago.

Tottenham Hotspur are in desperate need of huge improvement over the course of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign, needing to right the wrongs of last season.

The Lilywhites only managed to register a 17th-placed finish, losing 22 matches out of their 38, a tally of defeats that subsequently cost Ange Postecoglou his job.

Thomas Frank is the latest manager to try and push the club closer to a consistent place within the division’s top four and eventually push for a title charge in the years ahead.

The Dane will need the hierarchy to hand the new boss the funds he needs to make the desired changes to provide him with the platform for success in his first year at the club.

Numerous names have been touted with a move to North London, this window, with progress appearing to be made on deals to land key players in multiple areas.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer

Ademola Lookman is the latest player who has appeared on Spurs’ radar, with the Lilywhites preparing an offer for the Atalanta star in the coming weeks.

He could be available for a fee in the region of £50m this summer, a deal which could be a bargain given his tally of 20 goals across all competitions last season.

However, a deal could be edging closer for West Ham United’s Mohammed Kudus, with talks already being held, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

He claims that the club’s hierarchy are preparing another bid for the Ghanaian international, after their first offer of around £50m was swiftly rejected.

Romano also stated that the 24-year-old would be extremely keen on a move to join Frank’s side, with the Lilywhites currently leading the race for his signature this summer despite his £85m release clause.

Why Spurs’ latest target could be Frank’s own Saka

Bukayo Saka is a player who many Spurs fans have envied in recent years, given the performances he’s often produced against them in the North London Derby.

The 23-year-old has scored five times against the Lilywhites in his career, the most of any side in his professional career, with the Englishman one of the Premier League’s dangermen.

He registered six goals and 10 assists in England’s top-flight last season, but his contributions couldn’t catapult the Gunners to the Premier League title - undoubtedly to the joy of all Spurs supporters.

However, Frank’s side could be about to land their own version of the forward with a move for Kudus this summer, as the Ghanaian has been labelled as a similar player to Saka by FBref.

The West Ham star also possesses a very similar trait of liking to cut inside onto his left foot off the right flank, as demonstrated by the stats he’s produced in recent months.

Kudus, who’s been labelled as “sensational” by one analyst, has registered fewer goal contributions, but has posted a higher goal per shot on target rate, showcasing the clinical edge he possesses in attacking areas.

He’s also completed more of the passes he’s attempted, completing more balls into the final third, having the ability to provide other forwards with the chance for success in forward areas.

The Ghanaian’s dominance is further reflected in his tally of take-ons completed and carries into the final third, having the talent to take the ball forward at any given opportunity.

It may be a deal that could cost a small fortune this summer, but it’s evident that, from the stats produced, he would be worth every penny in their quest for domestic glory.

Should he get near the levels produced by Saka in recent times, it would be an astute piece of business and one that could provide the difference within the final third.

Tottenham Hotspur’s Europa League triumph at the end of the 2024/25 campaign will have undoubtedly lifted a huge weight off the shoulders of the players.

Before their win in Bilbao, the Lilywhites had gone 17 long years without any form of silverware, but now the club must build on their success and look to reach the next level.

The fanbase have often had to endure being mocked by other fanbases, but Thomas Frank will hopefully be the man to make the club serial winners in the near future.

It’s evident from the facilities in North London that the side are capable of challenging Europe’s elite, but it’s vital owner Daniel Levy backs the new boss in his quest.

The ongoing transfer window presents the Dane with the first opportunity to make the mark he desires, which has seen numerous players being linked with a move to the club already this summer.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new signings this summer

Mohammed Kudus has been a name on the lips of many Spurs fans over recent days and understandably so given the interest in the West Ham star’s signature.

It was reported this week that the Lilywhites had made an opening offer to Graham Potter’s side, but it was immediately rejected, with another bid being prepared.

However, despite the keen interest in the Ghanian’s signature, moves have been made elsewhere, with Atalanta star Ademola Lookman in their sights, according to one Spanish outlet.

The report claims that Frank’s side have been closely monitoring the Nigerian international this window and could be preparing an offer for his signature.

It also states that he could be available for a fee in the region of €60m (£50m) this summer, after registering 20 goals and six assists for the Italian outfit last campaign.

Why Spurs’ £50m target would be a better signing than Kudus

There’s no denying that from the recent activity within the transfer window that Spurs are desperately in the hunt for new attackers to bolster Frank’s forward line.

Kudus appears to be the main option for the hierarchy after other targets, Bryan Mbeumo and Antoine Semenyo, either agreed moves elsewhere or signed a new deal at their current side.

However, despite their recent bid being rejected for the West Ham star, he has already agreed personal terms over a move to North London, with the two clubs needing to agree on a fee.

It remains to be seen how much the Hammers could demand for his signature, but it could be a pretty penny, given his current £85m release clause in his contract at the London Stadium.

The club may be better off pursuing a move for fellow target Lookman, with the Atalanta star offering a cheaper alternative based on their respective transfer fees.

However, when comparing their stats from the 2024/25 campaign, the Nigerian has managed to outperform Kudus in numerous key areas, showcasing why he’d be the better option.

Lookman, who’s been labelled “world-class” by journalist John Bennett, has registered more combined goals and assists, with a higher shot on target accuracy rate - demonstrating the edge he possesses in attacking areas.

He’s also completed more progressive passes and more passes into the opposition’s areas per 90, having the tools to provide others around him with the ammunition to improve their own tallies.

The 27-year-old further demonstrated his quality by posting more carries into the final third along with more aerials won, having the all-round talent to star in attacking areas.

Given the difference in price tag and stats produced over the last couple of months, it’s evident that the former Everton talent would be the better signing.

There’s no denying that Kudus would also be a superb option, but Frank can save himself and the club a hefty chunk of money whilst getting themselves a better addition in the form of Lookman.

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

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

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

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

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

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Spurs' transfer priorities this summer

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

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

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

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

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

Spurs join race for sought-after midfielder

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

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

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

Why Spurs wants Orkun Kokcu

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The latest on Spurs' search for wingers

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

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

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

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

And Daniel Levy may well have found a shrewd solution.

Spurs learn conditions for new winger

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

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

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

What Daizen Maeda would bring to Spurs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The latest on Spurs' defensive situation

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

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

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

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

What Koni De Winter would bring to Spurs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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