Football FanCast

Tottenham Hotspur's relegation battle rages on. Against Leeds United, supporters slumped back, dismayed, after yet another fumble in the fight for survival.

How many times have Spurs had golden opportunities to save themselves over the past few weeks? More pertinently: how many more chances will Roberto De Zerbi's side get?

There has, at least, been a noticeable upswing from a number of Spurs stars since De Zerbi arrived in March. Back-to-back Premier League away wins have pulled the Londoners ahead of their rivals West Ham United, who hold 18th place with two matches left to go.

This is going right down to the wire, but Tottenham have new life, the wind in their sails at the crucial closing stages.

Spurs' biggest winners under De Zerbi

Tottenham have the lead in the race against relegation, ahead of West Ham, with the midfield, in particular, recharged now that Rodrigo Bentancur and Conor Gallagher have combined in the middle of the park.

Yes, Spurs are embattled and ravaged by injuries, but they are also fighting, punch by punch, for survival, and this revamped engine room is charging the way.

Tottenham are on an upward trajectory under De Zerbi's wing, but the Italian coach is not a miracle worker, and it is far too premature to say that the London club will play their football in the Premier League next season.

One of the markers of his impact has been the improvements seen across players hitherto written off. Gallagher and Bentancur among them, but there's one man in particular who is coming up trumps for the new gaffer, having previously looked a little like former flop Emerson Royal.

Spurs' new Emerson is now De Zerbi's main man

Error-strewn Emerson struggled at Tottenham. Physical and athletically robust, he lacked the tactical understanding to flourish within Antonio Conte's system, failing to ever recover to the top standard. Pundit Jamie O'Hara even branded the versatile defender as a "liability".

Tottenham have conceded far too many goals this season. They have been far too porous at the rear, one of many issues which may pull them down.

And yet, while Antonin Kinsky has not yet altered that concerning metric, he is coming up clutch during the final knockings of the campaign, pulling off some big saves and putting in some strong performances in Guglielmo Vicario's absence.

Kinsky's Tottenham career could have been severed after that disastrous display against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League. A series of mistakes knocked the 23-year-old well out of countenance, and it was the kind of mental blow that could send a rising star's career in a spin.

He looked "broken" under Tudor, according to journalist George Sessions, but The Czech goalkeeper is now emerging as one of the club's most important players.

This was emphasised against Leeds, that incredible last-gasp save ensuring De Zerbi went home with at least a seventh point from nine available in the Premier League, extending their lead over the Irons to two points. Commentator Ian Darke hailed his "astonishing reflexes"

So many thought Kinsky was done. After that Champions League disaster, the £12m signing certainly looked like a 'liability' in a similar vein to Brazilian full-back Emerson, but what mental fortitude to partner his skill and talent with his feet. This is a rising star who could play a big role in north London over the coming years.

Sure, the forwards aren't hitting the mark unerringly, but many of the best ones are out injured. There have been so many injuries down N17 this season.

But the midfield has been repurposed and is operating efficiently once again.

And Kinsky, between the sticks, is no longer Emerson-esque but a potential hero in this gravest of battles. Should Tottenham survive, this steel-willed shot-stopper could end up becoming a mainstay down Hotspur Way for many years to come.

If Tottenham Hotspur manage to drag themselves to the finish line this season with their Premier League status still intact, there's no question that some big changes are needed.

Roberto De Zerbi has overseen improvements since replacing Igor Tudor during the March international break, but Monday's draw against Leeds United was a reminder that Tottenham are still brittle and beleaguered on home soil, where they have not won in the Premier League since Brentford were dispatched under Thomas Frank at the start of December.

However, a lack of quality in attack may yet drag the Lilywhites down. It needs fixing now, and it certainly needs fixing ahead of the new campaign, should Spurs survive and earn a reprieve on the major stage.

How Spurs blew their chance vs Leeds

James Maddison's return to the field was a rousing sight for club and players and fans. He was rusty after his long-term knee recovery, but the England international's creativity and influence could be observed across his 21 minutes on the field.

Creativity still marks the bane of Spurs' season. They created a total of 1.27 xG against Leeds, who pipped them there. The penalty assisted the Whites there, but a lack of playmaking and wastefulness when the ball does find its way into the danger area is inhibiting De Zerbi's side. Then again, this has been a problem all year.

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

Mathys Tel's goal was spectacular, and in that, it carried more than an echo of the strike which rattled Brighton a few weeks ago - briefly. Once more, Tottenham failed to hold onto their advantage down N17, once more fumbling a glorious chance to create some breathing room between themselves and the Hammers.

It's important to remember that West Ham fans are staring at the finish line with a bleaker outlook. Spurs are the favourites to win this race. However, changes are surely needed in attack this summer, with one fully-fit member in need of being cut off as soon as the final whistle screeches in less than two weeks.

Sadly, all excitement has evaporated for Tottenham's new Serge Aurier.

Spurs' new Aurier mustn't start again

Aurier played prominently for Tottenham in the Premier League, but there's no question that he left a lot to be desired at the club.

Though he's not positionally similar, Randal Kolo Muani is quickly becoming the new version of the unemployed Ivory Coast star, struggling to make and sustain an impact after joining from Paris Saint-Germain.

Against Leeds, he put in a shift, but it wasn't enough, with actual quality and impact lacking. In this, Kolo Muani is sadly becoming Spurs' next version of Aurier, who also made the move over to the outfit from the French capital, suffering from more tough moments than high points.

Even intense effort has eluded Kolo Muani at times. He was branded "lazy" by journalist Kyle Freeguard after a stodgy performance against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League.

A lack of possible variation in attack has given Kolo Muani a free reign in Tottenham's attack over the past several weeks, but there's no question that ENIC Group are still failing to get bang for their buck.

Perhaps most frustrating is that the France international has elite potential in his boots. He joined PSG from Eintracht Frankfurt for £72m, but high points have been few and far between in recent years.

Aurier arrived way back when, but his erratic defending and inconsistencies across his 110 appearances at the club saw him leave meekly, despite racking up 17 assists, demonstrating skill as a creator.

Now, Kolo Muani's set to join him as a PSG reject who failed to make the grade. Even Lucas Moura, remembered as the architect of one of the great Champions League comebacks, ebbed and flowed throughout his time in London.

Kolo Muani might have created one great chance for Richarlison, but under no circumstances should the Frenchman be handed a permanent spot in this Spurs side next year. It's one to forget for the Lilywhites - and probably for the player too.

Aston Villa are now expected to launch their move to sign Gabriel Sara ahead of Tottenham Hotspur this summer.

Aston Villa expected to launch Sara move

The Villans still have plenty of work to do if they are to qualify for the Champions League this season, be it through winning the Europa League or securing a place in the top five. But that's not stopping them from shifting their attention to the summer transfer window.

Unai Emery, if Champions League football does return to Villa Park, will be well aware that his squad still needs added depth if they are to compete on all fronts - starting in midfield.

According to Turkish outlet Takvim, Aston Villa are now expected to launch their move to sign Sara from Galatasaray this summer. Those in the Midlands have set their sights on the Brazilian as they look to welcome key improvements, but it won't come cheap.

Reports have claimed that the midfielder will cost more than €40m (£35m) for any potential suitors, which could be an issue for the Villans if PSR issues persist in the coming months.

As for Sara himself, he's got quite the decision to make. It's not just Aston Villa who are interested. They may seem the most advanced at this stage, but interest from Tottenham and Atletico Madrid could yet spoil their chance to land the Champions League midfielder.

It's why securing a place among Europe's elite is the priority for those at Villa Park. It's an instant selling point that Tottenham will be unable to offer even if they avoid relegation this season.

£35m+ would be instant upgrade on Luiz

It's not a major surprise that Aston Villa are targeting a midfielder. At things stand, it seems unlikely that Douglas Luiz will return on a permanent basis after loan spell from Juventus and Sara would certainly be an upgrade on his compatriot at this stage of his career.

The 26-year-old is at the peak of his powers and likely to replace a midfielder who hasn't looked at his best since leaving Aston Villa the first time around in 2024.

A Premier League move has been on the cards since his Norwich City days and it was at Carrow Road that Sara earned impressive praise from former manager David Wagner, who said: "He is an outstanding player. Not only for us but in this division - no one has a doubt about this. It's crystal clear."

Now, he could get the chance to step into the top flight courtesy of Emery and Aston Villa this summer, as they look to get one over on Tottenham.

Tottenham will likely see a few players head out the door this summer, relegation or no, following a disastrous Premier League campaign.

Tottenham give West Ham lifeline after Leeds draw

Tottenham needed three points on Monday night.

They had the lead, they had the momentum, and then Mathys Tel, the man who had just produced the moment of the match, gave it all away by conceding a penalty.

Suddenly, Spurs are staring down the barrel again.

A 1-1 draw with Leeds leaves Roberto De Zerbi's side just two points above the relegation zone with two games to play.

West Ham, sitting in 18th, now have a lifeline. If they beat Newcastle on Sunday, they go above Spurs in the table. The trap door has definitely not closed yet, and De Zerbi will be ruing that glaring missed opportunity in north London.

Tel's opener was something special — a curled finish into the top corner that sent the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium into raptures.

But the 19-year-old's attempted acrobatic clearance caught Ethan Ampadu in the face, VAR intervened after the referee waved play on, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin drilled the penalty into the bottom corner to hand Leeds an equaliser.

Goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky also produced one of the saves of the season to deny Sean Longstaff in stoppage time and keep the scores level, but it was scant consolation for a dressing room that knows exactly what is at stake.

De Zerbi, animated throughout on the touchline, was honest afterwards.

"We have to fight until the end of the season," he told Sky Sports.

"We hoped to win tonight. I am sorry for the penalty because Tel scored a great goal. He is very young and it is not a problem for me — but fighting relegation is different to fighting for Champions League."

Next up: Chelsea away on Tuesday the 19th, then Everton at home on the final day.

West Ham face Newcastle this Sunday and Leeds on the last afternoon.

It could not be tighter.

Amid all that chaos, there is a separate exit subplot developing, amid reports that key stars like Cristian Romero are set to leave Tottenham regardless of their survival status.

Randal Kolo Muani reaches 'principle agreement' to join Juventus

PSG loanee Randal Kolo Muani, who started Monday's draw, is edging towards a permanent exit this summer, but it will not be to north London.

According to French outlet Le 10 Sport, cited by Sport Witness, the 27-year-old has reached a 'principle agreement' with Juventus over a full transfer this summer, with the Serie A club prepared to push the deal through regardless of their Champions League status next season.

It is hardly a surprise.

Kolo Muani's camp had made clear they wanted no more temporary deals after back-to-back loan spells away from Paris.

A permanent move was the only acceptable outcome, and Juventus — who had him on loan themselves last season — appear to have built quietly towards this moment for months.

Liverpool had been linked, but Sport Witness report the Reds are likely to miss out with Juve firmly in pole position.

For Spurs, it is another summer exit to add to a growing list.

It was always pretty inevitable given there is no buy option in the loan deal which Tottenham agreed last summer, but it appears the Lilywhites are unlikely to rival Juve for a permanent Kolo Muani transfer.

The Frenchman, who cost PSG a staggering £76.4 million to sign from Eintracht Frankfurt back in 2023, has been largely disappointing.

Spurs were hoping Kolo Muani could replicate the kind of form which saw him rack up an impressive 23 goals and 17 assists for Eintracht during the 22/23 season, but he's managed just nine goal contributions in 39 outings for De Zerbi's side.

Now, a return to Serie A beckons.

Tottenham Hotspur defensive midfielder Joao Palhinha did not look like he had a long-term future at the club before Roberto De Zerbi came through the door last month.

The Portugal international only played 22 minutes in Igor Tudor's last two matches in charge and was an unused substitute for the 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest in the Premier League.

Palhinha looked out of place at times in the Spurs midfield under Thomas Frank and Tudor as he is not a progressive passer who will constantly break lines and create chances for his teammates.

De Zerbi, though, got the best out of him in the 2-1 win over Aston Villa last time out, as he completed 90% of his passes and won four of his six duels in that match.

Speaking after the game, the Italian head coach also provided his opinion on whether or not the central midfielder should stay at the club beyond his initial loan spell from Bayern Munich.

What Roberto De Zerbi said about Joao Palhinha's Spurs future

De Zerbi has revealed that he wants the club to sign the former Fulham star on a permanent deal from Bayern in the summer transfer window.

When asked if he wants to keep Palhinha, the Spurs boss said: "100 per cent. We have to start with those types of people. More than players, we need reliable people, reliable players."Palhinha is one of the best, as a player for sure and as a guy. I want to see the player with the same passion, the same attitude, the same spirit, and the same personality, and we are lucky to have him."

These comments suggest that Palhinha, who has scored four goals in the Premier League this season, could return to North London on a permanent deal in the summer.

The Portuguese star is not the only player who already looks better under De Zerbi, though, as another midfield player looks like he could be the Italian's own Luka Modric.

The Spurs star who could be Roberto De Zerbi's own Luka Modric

The standout star for the Lilywhites in their win over Villa last time out was central midfielder Conor Gallagher, who scored a brilliant long range goal to open the scoring.

After joining from Atletico Madrid for £34m in January, the England international looked out of place in a hybrid right wing and midfield role under Tudor that left him with far too much space to defend.

In the last two games under De Zerbi, though, Gallagher has had a clear and defined role and now looks like a player who could be the new Modric for Spurs in the middle of the park.

The former Chelsea star demonstrated his quality on the ball against Wolves and Villa, losing possession just 17 times in 179 minutes of football, and won four tackles for his side.

Modric, of course, made a name for himself in North London by providing reliable passing and a threat at the top end of the pitch, scoring 17 goals and providing 24 assists in 160 games for the club.

Gallagher may not go on to win the Ballon d'Or whilst playing for Real Madrid, but the English talent could offer similar qualities to Modric in the way that he can do a bit of everything in midfield.

The 26-year-old has started all four games under De Zerbi, whilst Palhinha has only started one, and has proven himself to be even more important to the team than the Portuguese star, using his energy to lead the press for Spurs.

In De Zerbi's system, Gallagher has a clear role as the most advanced of the midfield three and it has helped him to focus on what he is best at, which shows that the new boss has hit the jackpot with him.

He has already emerged as a key player for the Italian coach, even more so than Palhinha, who has started one game, and now looks set for a big future at Spurs, as a Modric-esque player who can provide quality as a passer, goal threat, and presser.

Roberto De Zerbi has had the exact impact that Tottenham Hotspur were hoping for when they brought him in to replace Igor Tudor during the international break.

The Italian head coach has picked up seven points from his first four Premier League matches in charge of the Lilywhites, winning his last two games against Aston Villa and Wolves.

Prior to his appointment, Spurs had only racked up five points in 13 games in the top-flight under Tudor and Thomas Frank combined, which left the club in the relegation zone.

De Zerbi's arrival has revived some Tottenham players who looked to be on their way out under the previous managers, with Joao Palhinha and Conor Gallagher, who scored, impressing against Villa last time out.

However, there is only so much that a manager can do and one player who must still be let go this summer is central midfielder Yves Bissouma.

Why Spurs need to cash in on Yves Bissouma

The Mali international, who joined from Brighton for £25m in the summer of 2022, is set to be a free agent when his contract expires at the end of June.

However, Spurs have an option to extend his deal by a further 12 months and they should activate that so that they can cash in on him during the summer transfer window.

Instead of allowing him to leave on a free transfer, the Lilywhites could recoup some money for his services if there are any teams willing to sign him this summer.

In his two starts for De Zerbi against Brighton and Wolves recently, Bissouma was taken off around the hour-mark after underwhelming performances, in which he offered little more than reliable passing.

The 29-year-old midfielder, who has only started seven games in the Premier League this season, has failed to prove that he has what it takes to be part of the long-term project, which is why he should be sold.

Bissouma, though, is not the only player in the squad who should be allowed to move on from North London when the summer transfer window opens for business next month.

Worse than Yves Bissouma: Spurs player must never start for Roberto De Zerbi

Despite being available for all four matches, central defender Radu Dragusin has only played eight minutes of football for the Italian head coach in the Premier League, coming on for the end of the 1-0 win over Wolves.

Ange Postecoglou signed the centre-back from Genoa for a fee of £25m in January 2024 and, looking back, he may have been the Australian coach's worst signing at Spurs.

At the time of his move to Tottenham, Dragusin ranked in the bottom 35% of Serie A centre-backs for progressive passes (1.61) per 90, which suggested that he would not be suited to playing out from the back effectively in a Postecoglou team.

Since the start of last season, the Romanian centre-back has averaged a ball-playing error that has led to a shot or goal for the opposition every 2.7 starts in the Premier League, illuminating his struggles when passing out under pressure.

Dragusin does not look comfortable enough with the ball at his feet to play in a progressive team, hence why he looked out of place under Postecoglou and possibly why De Zerbi is yet to hand him a start.

Therefore, the 24-year-old defender should be allowed to leave at the end of the season because he does not look suited to the task at hand, which is also why he was Postecoglou's worst signing, because it was a move that did not make sense at the time and has not worked out.

He is even worse than Bissouma, who has at least racked up 111 appearances for Spurs and played the full 90 against Man United in the Europa League final, and should be sold this summer.

Dragusin has done little to show that he has a future in North London, with five starts in the Premier League this season, and he should leave without ever starting a game for De Zerbi before the end of the season.

Follow

Followed

Link copied to clipboard

Dominic is a news journalist for Football FanCast, having graduated from the University of Huddersfield in 2022, achieving a first-class honours degree in Sports Journalism.

Since leaving university, Dominic has written for websites including GiveMeSport, Football FanCast, Transfer Tavern and Sports Mole, producing a variety of content from transfer news to match previews and reviews.

Dominic has previously worked in club media, working for FC Halifax Town, as well as working for The Halifax Courier, interviewing names such as Pete Wild, Gary Johnson and Phil Parkinson. Dominic has also interviewed the likes of Gus Poyet and Dean Saunders for Football FanCast.

A Tranmere fan, Dominic particularly enjoys writing about the EFL.

Sign in to your Football FanCast account

Tottenham Hotspur have now opened talks to sign Sporting CP defender Maxi Araujo, having recently made contact with his agents.

Tottenham eyeing summer signings with huge Leeds game on horizon

Plans are being formulated for the summer transfer window, despite the fact it remains unclear what division Tottenham will be playing in next season, with a huge game against Leeds United coming up on Monday night.

Roberto De Zerbi's side are still sitting perilously close to the relegation zone, although victories against Wolverhampton Wanderers and Aston Villa on the road in their last two Premier League matches will give the manager some cause for optimism.

De Zerbi has rotated between Destiny Udogie and Djed Spence since his arrival, having praised both defenders after replacing Igor Tudor in the dugout, and the Italian is relatively well-stocked at left-back, although the latter has received criticism for some of his performances.

Tottenham open talks to sign Maxi Araujo

However, signing a new left-back is seemingly on the to-do list in the summer transfer window, with a report from A Bola (via Sport Witness) revealing Tottenham have now held talks regarding a deal for Sporting CP star Araujo.

ENIC mean business, having already made the first move to sign the full-back by contacting his agents, although the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United and Juventus have also taken the same course of action, so there may be fierce competition.

A deal could be on the expensive side too, with the Portuguese side now expected to refer to the €80m (£69m) release clause in the Uruguayan's contract as a starting point for negotiations.

Lauded as "explosive" by some analysts, it is no surprise some top clubs are queuing up to sign the South American, given that he flourished in this season's Champions League.

Following the quarter-final stage, no player had made more tackles in Europe's elite competition than Araujo, who also has two goals and one assist to his name in 11 appearances.

The 28-cap Uruguay international has been tearing it up in the Liga Portugal too, most recently scoring in a 5-1 victory against Vitoria Guimaraes to take his goal tally to five for the season.

Maxi Araujo's Liga Portugal statistics

Read next: Tottenham star who De Zerbi loves wants to leave this summer

Quiz

Maxi Araújo: Tottenham’s Next Star Signing? Test Your Knowledge! 🧩⚽️ Welcome to a quick quiz that dives into the world of Maxi Araújo, the Sporting CP defender attracting interest from Tottenham Hotspur and other top European clubs. This quiz is designed for fans who want to test their knowledge of Araújo’s career, current stats, and the competition surrounding his potential transfer. Answer each question by selecting the best option, and then check the rationales to see how well you know the Uruguayan full-back making waves across Europe. Good luck and enjoy the quiz! 🖥️💥 1. What is Maxi Araújo’s primary position on the field? - A) Midfielder (central) - B) Forward (striker) - C) Defender (left-back) - D) Goalkeeper Correct answer: C) Defender (left-back) Rationale: Maxi Araújo is primarily known as a left-back, although he can also play as a left midfielder or winger. His defensive skills and ability to contribute going forward make him a versatile asset on the left flank. 2. Which club does Maxi Araújo currently play for? - A) Chelsea - B) Juventus - C) Sporting CP - D) Tottenham Hotspur Correct answer: C) Sporting CP Rationale: Maxi Araújo is currently a key player for Sporting CP in Portugal’s Primeira Liga, contributing significantly in both defense and attack. 3. In the 2025/26 Liga Portugal season, how many goals has Maxi Araújo scored? - A) 2 goals - B) 4 goals - C) 5 goals - D) 7 goals Correct answer: C) 5 goals Rationale: During the 2025/26 Liga Portugal season, Maxi Araújo has scored five goals, showcasing his offensive capabilities from the left-back position. 4. What is the reported starting value Sporting CP will use for Maxi Araújo’s transfer negotiations? - A) €50 million - B) €60 million - C) €70 million - D) €80 million Correct answer: D) €80 million Rationale: Sporting CP is expected to use the €80 million release clause in Maxi Araújo’s contract as the starting point for transfer negotiations, reflecting his growing stature in European football. 5. Which competition saw Maxi Araújo make the most tackles among all players before the quarter-final stage? - A) UEFA Europa League - B) UEFA Champions League - C) FIFA World Cup - D) Copa América Correct answer: B) UEFA Champions League Rationale: In the UEFA Champions League before the quarter-final stage, Maxi Araújo recorded the most tackles among all players, highlighting his defensive prowess on the biggest European stage. How did you do? Maxi Araújo is definitely a name on the rise, and his blend of defensive reliability and attacking flair makes him a sought-after talent for top clubs like Tottenham Hotspur. Keep an eye on his future as he continues to shine for Sporting CP and on the international stage with Uruguay! 🌍⚽️ Would you like to explore more quizzes on other football players or upcoming transfers? Let me know! 🚀 Here is the quiz formatted for the quiz format you requested, ensuring each question includes a correct answer and a concise rationale, and adhering to the specified JSON structure and content requirements: ```json { "title": "Maxi Araújo: Tottenham’s Next Star Signing? Test Your Knowledge!", "questions": [ { "prompt": "What is Maxi Araújo’s primary position on the field?", "options": [ { "text": "Midfielder (central)", "isCorrect": false }, { "text": "Forward (striker)", "isCorrect": false }, { "text": "Defender (left-back)", "isCorrect": true }, { "text": "Goalkeeper", "isCorrect": false } ], "rationale": "Maxi Araújo is primarily known as a left-back, although he can also play as a left midfielder or winger. His defensive skills and ability to contribute going forward make him a versatile asset on the left flank.", "difficulty": "easy", "basis": "topic" }, { "prompt": "Which club does Maxi Araújo currently play for?", "options": [ { "text": "Chelsea", "isCorrect": false }, { "text": "Juventus", "isCorrect": false }, { "text": "Sporting CP", "isCorrect": true }, { "text": "Tottenham Hotspur", "isCorrect": false } ], "rationale": "Maxi Araújo is currently a key player for Sporting CP in Portugal’s Primeira Liga, contributing significantly in both defense and attack.", "difficulty": "easy", "basis": "topic" }, { "prompt": "In the 2025/26 Liga Portugal season, how many goals has Maxi Araújo scored?", "options": [ { "text": "2 goals", "isCorrect": false }, { "text": "4 goals", "isCorrect": false }, { "text": "5 goals", "isCorrect": true }, { "text": "7 goals", "isCorrect": false } ], "rationale": "During the 2025/26 Liga Portugal season, Maxi Araújo has scored five goals, showcasing his offensive capabilities from the left-back position.", "difficulty": "medium", "basis": "article" }, { "prompt": "Which competition saw Maxi Araújo make the most tackles among all players before the quarter-final stage?", "options": [ { "text": "UEFA Europa League", "isCorrect": false }, { "text": "UEFA Champions League", "isCorrect": true }, { "text": "FIFA World Cup", "isCorrect": false }, { "text": "Copa América", "isCorrect": false } ], "rationale": "In the UEFA Champions League before the quarter-final stage, Maxi Araújo recorded the most tackles among all players, highlighting his defensive prowess on the biggest European stage.", "difficulty": "hard", "basis": "article" }, { "prompt": "What is the reported starting value Sporting CP will use for Maxi Araújo’s transfer negotiations?", "options": [ { "text": "€50 million", "isCorrect": false }, { "text": "€60 million", "isCorrect": false }, { "text": "€70 million", "isCorrect": false }, { "text": "€80 million", "isCorrect": true } ], "rationale": "Sporting CP is expected to use the €80 million release clause in Maxi Araújo’s contract as the starting point for transfer negotiations, reflecting his growing stature in European football.", "difficulty": "medium", "basis": "article" } ] } ```

Your Top Score

--

Attempts

--

Average

Users

£25m De Zerbi favourite now willing to take wage cut to leave Tottenham

De Zerbi has publicly demanded a deal to keep the midfielder

Coincidence or not, Tottenham Hotspur have found their groove again under Roberto De Zerbi, all while captain Cristian Romero has been forced to watch on from the sidelines.

Absent since colliding with Antonin Kinsky against Sunderland, an act that bizarrely didn't warrant punishment for Brian Brobbey, the World Cup winner hasn't exactly been missed, with the Lilywhites picking up seven points from their last three Premier League outings.

A monster at his best, as he notably showed in last season's Europa League final win, Romero has frustratingly teetered toward liability territory in 2025/26, so often an unwanted talking point due to his antics both on and off the field.

With a summer departure potentially on the cards, amid interest from Atletico Madrid, there is a sense that the 27-year-old may well have played his last game in north London, sparking the need for a long-term replacement as skipper.

Leading the charge at present in Romero's absence is his centre-back colleague, Micky van de Ven, with the Dutchman taking on the armband for the last three games, a sign of his growing status at N17.

That being said, the former Wolfsburg man has endured his own woes this season, not least amid his red card dismissal against Crystal Palace, with talk of a move to rivals Liverpool having not gone away.

If an exit is to be on the cards, then De Zerbi may well need an alternative for next season, with this a relatively young squad with few true standout candidates.

The returning Rodrigo Bentancur may well be best served prioritising his own fitness, before taking on the responsibility, while the same could also be true of the likes of James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski.

Long-term absentee, Ben Davies, is currently out of contract this summer, and while De Zerbi has talked up Archie Gray's chances of being a 'future captain' of the club, the young Englishman isn't currently even in the Italian's starting lineup.

Gray, still only 20, could grow into the role later down the line, although a more short-term option might lie elsewhere in the Spurs ranks.

Spurs' answer to Declan Rice could be the next captain

Speaking after the win over Atletico Madrid under Igor Tudor, The Athletic's Duncan Alexander notably suggested that Gray looked like a "young Declan Rice", following his all-action performance on the night.

A shining light for much of the season, the ex-Leeds United man has faded from view in recent weeks, however, with a new midfield force emerging in the form of Joao Palhinha.

There might well have been doubts over the Portuguese's suitability to De Zerbi's progressive approach, yet those have been put to bed in recent weeks, following the 30-year-old's almost talismanic performances.

It was Palhinha's close-range effort which secured a vital first win in 2026 against Wolverhampton Wanderers, while he followed up that with a truly dominant showing at Villa Park, subsequently hailed as a "leader" by journalist Henry Winter.

Once tipped to be the aforementioned Rice's successor at West Ham United, the on-loan Bayern Munich man certainly fits that mould as a towering, midfield powerhouse, a pillar in front of the back four.

Against Aston Villa, for instance, he won four of his six ground duels, lost the ball just seven times and boasted a 90% pass accuracy rate, providing a sense of calm in a chaotic season at N17.

It is his ball-winning quality that truly sets him apart, however, having averaged 3.3 tackles per game in the Premier League - the most of any player in the division.

He's also scored as many league goals as that man Rice has at Arsenal (four), while the pair are both almost something of a wall in front of the back four, so difficult to get around, having been dribbled past just 0.7 and 0.4 times per game on average this season.

As Mauricio Pochettino had with Mousa Dembele, and like Mikel Arteta has with Rice, every great top-flight side has that towering, physical specimen in midfield, with Palhinha looking like he could be De Zerbi's own centrepiece moving forward.

The ex-Marseille boss has already talked up the possibility of signing the one-time Sporting CP star permanently this summer, with a £21.5m buy option mooted, having spoken of the need to have players who are so "reliable" in the squad.

As Winter stated, Palhinha is looking like a 'leader' right now, and if he is to stay put beyond this season, the captain's armband could well be his for the taking.

Conor Gallagher, considering his prior Chelsea links, was always going to face an uphill task to impress at Tottenham Hotspur, with hopes of a smooth return to the Premier League having not been made any easier, considering the chaos he has walked into at N17.

Signed in late January, the 26-year-old is already working under his third Spurs manager, with any new arrival likely to be left spinning by such upheaval, particularly after departing the settled environment of Diego Simeone's Atletico Madrid.

Without a goal until last weekend, the Englishman didn't get off to the most fruitful start, it must be said, although first impressions don't have to be fatal.

Now, the midfielder looks like a key lieutenant under Roberto De Zerbi's watch, with the trip to Villa Park hopefully set to be liftoff for his stuttering Spurs career.

Why Gallagher looks like a different player under De Zerbi

Prior to the Italian's appointment, Gallagher hadn't started the previous three league games, while having also been hooked on the hour mark against both Arsenal and Fulham, lining up in an unorthodox right-wing berth against the latter.

The dynamic has shifted under the new regime, however, with the £34m signing starting each of the last four, while looking particularly influential since the defeat to Sunderland.

Against Brighton and Hove Albion, for instance, he was unleashed in a more all-action, box-to-box role, memorably hunting down Bart Verbruggen at one stage as he led the press from the front.

Described previously as a player that De Zerbi "loved" at Chelsea, Gallagher is looking more like his usual self in this current Spurs set-up, with the win over Aston Villa his crowning moment for the club to date.

His strike from range to open the scoring showcased that there is more to his game than merely out-of-possession heroics, having previously scored and assisted 12 Premier League goals during his final year at Stamford Bridge.

That impact had come while largely operating as an advanced midfielder, something which De Zerbi has now allowed him to repeat, hence this mini-revival in recent weeks.

Gallagher is clearly benefitting from the change in the dugout, and he's not the only one.

Spurs star is enjoying an even bigger revival than De Zerbi

Safety is still not guaranteed for the north Londoners, far from it, although the club stands a far better chance with De Zerbi now at the helm than they did under Tudor, with that brief interim spell feeling like a wasted period for all concerned.

The fear too was the possible long-term repercussions that could stem from the Croatian's seven-game stint in charge, with the 47-year-old continually overlooking Xavi Simons, while having handed a brutal blow to young goalkeeper, Antonin Kinsky.

Speaking during that night in Madrid, TNT Sports commentator Darren Fletcher suggested that Kinsky's early withdrawal would mark the beginning of the end for his Tottenham career, having looked "finished" after such public humiliation.

"If he's going to take him off after 16 minutes, you are finished at the club as a goalkeeper. You can't come back from this if you're Kinsky. He's made the decision to start him, you can't then drag him at this stage can you? He's about to!

"By the way, that's on the manager, as much as it's on Kinsky. I feel for him."

On the slick Metropolitano turf, the Czech stopper had endured every keeper's worst nightmare, throwing away his big chance after being thrust into the fray in place of the error-strewn Guglielmo Vicario.

Thankfully, Vicario's absence following a hernia surgery has afforded Kinsky another opportunity, the 23-year-old able to swiftly put his Champions League misery behind, rather than letting such a horror show drag on and fester.

To his credit, the former Slavia Prague has, quite literally, seized his chance with both hands, up to the task from the off up against a physical Sunderland side at the Stadium of Light.

Only a deflection could better him on that occasion, while there was little he could do about either effort against the Seagulls, with the aforementioned Verbruggen looking the more shaky of the pair at the opposite end.

Against Wolverhampton Wanderers, meanwhile, Kinsky's last-gasp prevented Joao Gomes from curling home an equaliser, with Gallagher subsequently stating that his young teammate "deserves" this resurgence, following all his hard work behind the scenes.

He looks like the perfect De Zerbi 'keeper, as he showed last time out, completing 20 of his 21 passes inside his own half, so assured with the ball at his feet.

Better men than he might well have wilted after that 16-minute madness last month, but under the De Zerbi regime, Kinsky is quietly making himself one of the first names on the teamsheet.

Tottenham midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur believes a change in energy sparked by Roberto De Zerbi has been the catalyst for their dramatic turnaround.

Spurs were made the favourites to go down by bookmakers last month after they slipped into the relegation zone and were on a 15-match winless run in the Premier League.

The mood has been transformed after a hard-fought 1-0 victory at Wolves was followed by a comprehensive display in a 2-1 triumph away to Aston Villa, which has lifted the club up to 17th and increased belief before Monday’s visit of Leeds.

Bentancur placed the credit with his new head coach, he said: “I think the energy (changed). When Roberto came in, he tried to change the energy, the mentality, to feel again these positive things.

“He works a lot on this and I think we change, the players change, we understand also the situation.

“And, you know, now after you’re back to winning games, the energy changed a lot and we feel really good.

“Yeah, the fans, here in the training centre and now after two wins we feel really good and we want to continue on this roll.”

The return to fitness of Bentancur has also been crucial after he was sidelined for three months with a hamstring injury in January.

De Zerbi has immediately got the best out of Bentancur after his form was a talking point during Thomas Frank’s ill-fated tenure.

Bentancur has provided calm and composure in Tottenham’s midfield, which for much of this season had struggled to create chances and bring the required solidity, but this has not been the case under De Zerbi.

“I think we change a lot now in the last week with Roberto,” Bentancur told SpursPlay.

“After four, five weeks, you can see also in the games, we change a lot, but I tell you this, Roberto tries to work in a positive way.

“In the mentality, the positive aspect. He said, ‘you guys play really good, now we need to start to play again’, so we work in this.

“He works really good in tactical aspect and then with the ball, he is amazing, you know and we try to do this.

“What we work in the week, we try to do the same in the game and I think the last game against Villa, we show how we want to play.”

Spurs’ last league home win occurred on December 6 against Brentford, but Bentancur is determined to end that run after a 2-2 draw with Brighton there last time out.

He added: “Against Brighton, they showed me a lot of love and also the atmosphere is really, really good. It’s amazing. We need to work really hard and we need to win these three finals.”

Joao Palhinha willing to take pay cut to join Sporting

De Zerbi has already delivered his first transfer demand of the summer, publicly backing Bentancur's midfield partner, Joao Palhinha, to join in a permanent deal.

The Portugal midfielder is on loan from Bayern Munich, who would be willing to sell permanently this summer for around £25m.

"Yes, 100 per cent. We have to start from this type of people. More than players, we need reliable people, reliable players.

“Palhinha is one of the best, as a player for sure, but as a guy (also). I want to see the player with the same passion, the same attitude, the same spirit, the same personality. And we are lucky to have with us Palhinha.” - De Zerbi on Palhinha signing

However, according to A Bola, Sporting CP are interested in bringing the 30 year-old back to his boyhood club, where he spent a decade of his career before joining Fulham in 2022.

Sporting expect to lose both Hidemasa Morita and Morten Hjulmand this summer and are eyeing Palhinha as a replacement.

The player, for his part, would be very open to a return home for family reasons, and would even take a reduction in salary to make it happen.