Football FanCast

This summer is shaping up to be one of Tottenham Hotspur's most important for a long time.

The North Londoners got rid of Ange Postecoglou earlier this month and, in relatively fast fashion, appointed Thomas Frank in his place.

The Danish coach helped turn Brentford into a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League but has no real experience of managing a team as big as Spurs.

So, to ensure he can help lead the club back up the league table next season and to a successful campaign in Europe, Daniel Levy and Co need to bring in the right players in the summer transfer window.

That means that on top of bringing in the exciting attacking names, the club need to help address the defence, which seems to be happening, with reports linking the club to someone who could be Frank's own Jurrien Timber.

Spurs' defensive targets

While Tottenham managed to end up as the eighth-highest-scoring team in the Premier League this season, they also managed to end up with the fourth-worst defensive record, conceding 65 goals - one more than they scored.

So, it's clear what part of the team needs to be addressed in the coming weeks and months, and unsurprisingly, the club have already been linked with a handful of talented defenders, such as Jarrad Branthwaite and Vanderson.

The former has been mightily impressive for Everton and, at a towering 6 foot 5, would help add some serious steel to the North Londoners' backline, although with reports that he could cost up to £80m, this feels like a deal unlikely to happen.

Likewise, while Vanderson is undoubtedly a talented full-back, he's been touted for a move to Tottenham before, and nothing has ever come of the links, and he's not really comparable to Timber, unlike Kyle Walker-Peters.

According to a recent report from Caught Offside, Spurs are one of several sides seriously interested in re-signing the Southampton star having initially left the club under Jose Mourinho.

The report has revealed that with the full-back's £20k-per-week contract coming to an end this month, a number of teams are expected to move for the Englishman's signature, with the North Londoners expected to be the most serious.

Moreover, the story claims Frank is open to transfer, which helps make this move seem like a total no-brainer, especially as he's won comparisons to the talented Timber.

How Walker-Peters compares to Timber

The primary comparison to Timber for Walker-Peters stems from FBref, which looked at players in similar positions in the Premier League this season, and came to the conclusion that the Dutchman was the fifth most similar full-back in the competition.

We can better understand how this conclusion was reached by looking at some of the metrics in which the pair ranked closely, such as non-penalty expected goals plus assists, key passes, errors leading to a shot, blocks, and more, all per 90.

What is interesting and perhaps most encouraging about this comparison is that it highlights the similarity the Englishman has with the Arsenal ace in terms of his on-the-ball ability as well as his defensive solidity, which should be music to the ears of Frank.

Moreover, like the former Ajax star, who made 48 appearances across all competitions this season, the ex-Tottenham man was an ever-reliable presence for the Saints, making 35 appearances in the league, all of which were starts.

The last point of comparison is that, like the Gunners ace, the Englishman is fairly versatile, as while his primary position is right-back, he has the ability to play across the backline and even further up the pitch, should he need to.

Ultimately, while he won't be anywhere near the most exciting transfer Spurs make this summer, picking up Walker-Peters for free seems like a total no-brainer, and who knows, he could prove as useful for Frank as Timber has for Mikel Arteta.

Tottenham Hotspur find themselves under new management, but have made a play for a target who is said to have been on their radar for the last 18 months, according to a report.

Tottenham begin search for summer reinforcements

Spurs find themselves with a platform to kick on under Thomas Frank. However, the Dane won't be under any illusions about the magnitude of the task that lies ahead in the dugout.

Reinforcements at both ends of the pitch have been lined up, and Spurs are reportedly keen to bring Dennis Cirkin back to the club from Sunderland, even if they will need to do some convincing on that front.

Up the other end, former scout Mick Brown has detailed that Alejandro Garnacho could sign for Tottenham if ENIC can put forward a convincing financial package for the wantaway Manchester United star.

He stated: "Tottenham have been keeping an eye on Garnacho’s situation. It’s a move that could suit all three parties because Man United want to sell him, Tottenham will strengthen their team, and he wants to stay in the Premier League.

"But at the end of the day, it will all be decided by the money on offer. In normal circumstances, you’d be totally against selling one of your young players to a direct rival. For Man United, they don’t care where he goes as long as it’s the side offering the most money.

Kyle Walker-Peters could return to Tottenham on a free transfer after leaving Southampton, and Spurs may now have another bargain up their sleeve after recent developments came to light.

Tottenham eyeing bargain Ko Itakura deal

According to GIVEMESPORT, Tottenham are in regular contact with Borussia Monchengladbach involving Ko Itakura, and he has been on their radar for 18 months in their search for defensive cover.

With one year left on his deal at the Bundesliga outfit and no sign of an extension forthcoming, he could now be allowed to depart for a fee in the region of £12 million and intermediaries have kept Spurs informed about his situation.

Itakura made 33 appearances across all competitions last season and scored four goals in that timeframe and is capable of featuring in central defence or even in midfield, signifying that he possesses a great deal of versatility.

Of course, Spurs endured something of an injury crisis last season that saw Archie Gray and Djed Spence among others shunted into unfamiliar positions within their rearguard, so there is a clear need for more options to prevent a repeat scenario.

Finding affordable solutions that can add to the group will be the priority, and Itakura certainly seems like someone who could become a valuable contributor in North London.

Tottenham Hotspur are in the market for a forward this summer and have now made a formal approach to land a striker who models his game after one of the best forwards in the world, according to a report.

Tottenham Hotspur's hunt for attacking reinforcements

Thomas Frank has already tied up deals for Kevin Danso and Mathys Tel since walking through the door in N17. However, you get the impression there is plenty more to come given they will be playing Champions League football next term.

Looking to provide strength in depth across the front four positions, Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo and Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo are prominent Tottenham targets, while West Ham United star Mohammed Kudus has also been mentioned in dispatches.

With a managerial change coming into play, Daniel Levy has outlined that he has full faith in new boss Frank to deliver success after carrying out a rigorous search for Ange Postecoglou's successor.

He explained: "Whenever you have a new coach, it's always a fresh start. [They] always have different ideas but we want to build on the success of winning a trophy last season.

"One of the things that stood out to me with Thomas was that he is clearly highly intelligent, a great communicator, super human being plus all the technical aspects which are obviously important."

Boca Juniors striker Miguel Merentiel could also be on Spurs' radar after an excellent start to the Club World Cup, signalling that eyes and ears will be on all potential markets from the Lilywhites this summer to extract a fair rate of value for money.

Fundamentally, bolstering the offensive areas will give Frank the depth required to progress his side, so it won't come as any surprise to hear Merentiel isn't the only South American star the club is seeking to add.

Tottenham launch formal approach for Ian Subiabre

According to reports in his homeland via Sport Witness, Tottenham have launched a formal approach for River Plate's Ian Subiabre to ascertain details about his current situation.

Chelsea previously had a meeting with his agent, Claudio Caniggia, though they eventually baulked due to his release clause that is mooted to amount to around £22.4 million.

Mainly used as a substitute, Spurs haven't been deterred and could look to make an offer that includes a future sell-on percentage for the Argentina Under-20 international, who has scored three times in six matches at that youth rank.

Describing Julian Alvarez as a player he models his game on, it remains to be seen whether his release clause will be met or if a transfer fee would be structured via alternative means.

River may entertain bids after the Club World Cup and haven't ruled out a departure in this case, meaning Spurs could well add another talented youngster to the ranks.

West Ham United find themselves ready to move on from the dissapointment of last campaign under Graham Potter and have now turned their attention to an England cap also desires by their rivals, according to a report.

West Ham look to kickstart slow transfer window

Without putting too fine a point on it, the Hammers have endured a slow transfer window so far as they weigh up what direction to go down at the London Stadium. Despite a lack of notable links, former scout Mick Brown has detailed that West Ham are set to make a 'formal approach' for Rangers striker Hamza Igamane following his debut campaign in Scotland.

He stated: "West Ham are about make a formal move for Igamane. They’ve had scouts up there watching him and he’s one of the names on their radar.

“But I’m told they’re not convinced he’s ready to make the step up to the Premier League. He’s looked impressive for Rangers at times, but he’s playing in a side which finished 17 points short of Celtic, so it’s a difficult one to judge."

Talks have also been held between the Hammers and Adama Bojang, so there is a clear appetite there for Graham Potter to add attacking reinforcements.

However, the forward line won't be the only place strengthened by those in the corridors of power. Vladimir Coufal has left West Ham on a free transfer, signalling that a right-back will be on the agenda to replace the experienced Czechia international.

With that in mind, the Londoners could now look to beat one of their city rivals in pursuit of a defender who has been capped by England and is available for free.

West Ham line up Kyle Walker-Peters move

According to CaughtOffside, West Ham have positioned themselves to sign Southampton's Kyle Walker-Peters, though he is also attracting interest from Tottenham Hotspur, Fulham and Crystal Palace.

The 28-year-old has been identified by Thomas Frank as a sensible signing and Spurs are front of the queue, but the Hammers are 'closely monitoring' his situation and could launch a counter to any attempts from their London rivals to win the race for his signature.

Intriguingly, the former Spurs man has featured in a variety of different positions this campaign, including both flanks, either full-back berth and even as a central defender.

His availability on a free transfer is majorly appealing to top-flight clubs alongside Walker-Peters' homegrown status, though he has the monopoly of choosing his next destination and will likely take his time to do so.

Labelled "brilliant" by Russell Martin, Everton were also in the running before they opted to sign Kenny Tete on a free transfer from Fulham.

Despite missing the deadline to trigger their buy-back option, Daniel Levy and Tottenham Hotspur are now reportedly preparing an offer to re-sign a Premier League defender.

Daniel Levy: "Failure is not an option"

The biggest decision of Tottenham's summer so far has undoubtedly been the appointment of Thomas Frank after showing Ange Postecoglou the door. The decision to sack Australian is one that split opinion just weeks after the Lilywhites ended their trophy drought by winning the Europa League against Manchester United.

Levy has since spoken for the first time since sacking Postecoglou, revealing that it was a difficult decision emotionally. He told reporters: "I don't regret appointing Ange, I'm very grateful to Ange. In his first season we finished fifth and in his second we were over the moon to win a trophy.

"But we need to compete in all competitions, and we felt that we needed a change. Emotionally it was difficult but we feel that we've made the right decision for the club. "I've got very broad shoulders. Failure is not an option, the desire [is] to succeed. And because it's so difficult, I want to succeed even more."

Whether those in North London agree with the decision or not, Postecoglou's departure has since opened the door for Frank to step into the hot seat for the biggest job of his career.

It has been a long time coming for the Dane, who took Brentford to new heights despite often lacking in resources. Now at Tottenham, he has the chance to prove that he belongs at the very top by turning things around in North London.

That turnaround must start away from the pitch and in the transfer window, however, with names such as Antoine Semenyo alongside a name that Spurs fans know well already among the headlines on that front.

Tottenham preparing offer to re-sign Cirkin

According to reports relayed by The Northern Echo, Tottenham are now preparing a formal offer to re-sign Dennis Cirkin despite missing the deadline to trigger their buy-back clause from Sunderland.

The left-back has blossomed into an impressive talent since swapping Spurs for Wearside and now finds himself back in the Premier League with the Black Cats. That return has not gone under the radar, however, and Levy now has his sights set on a reunion.

Cirkin would not only hand Frank an instant boost in his backline but also help Spurs to fill their homegrown quota in the Champions League next season. On all fronts, it is a deal that may make sense for the Lilywhites.

Sunderland are reportedly eager to keep hold of Cirkin and tie their defender down to a new contract. Whether they are able to convince their defender to ignore the interest of his former club remains to be seen, though.

Alas, having already lost Jobe Bellingham for big money, the Black Cats have proved their ability to drive a hard bargain and with no buy-back clause to fall back on, Spurs could yet face some tough negotiations.

Tottenham Hotspur will be wanting to right the wrongs of this season’s failure in the Premier League, which saw the club finish just one place above the relegation zone.

Despite winning the Europa League, it was the Lilywhites’ lowly league standing that spelled the end for Ange Postecoglou in North London, subsequently being sacked after two years in the role.

Daniel Levy wasted no time in appointing Thomas Frank from fellow top-flight side Brentford, but it’s crucial that the Dane is handed time to transform the side next campaign.

Alongside the players currently on the books, additions are also needed during the current window to help the 51-year-old in his quest for success during his tenure in charge.

Work appears to be conducted behind the scenes to help the new manager in the market, which could see moves made for various targets this summer.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new signings this summer

In recent days, Spurs have appeared to be stepping up their efforts to land Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo this summer, after it was confirmed the club are set to make a bid for his services.

He’s not the only attacker on their radar, with OGC Nice striker Evann Guessand another option under consideration ahead of Frank’s debut campaign at the helm.

However, another name has now entered the mix, with one Spanish outlet claiming that the Lilywhites hold serious interest in a move for Boca Juniors striker Miguel Merentiel.

The report claims that the 29-year-old’s agent is aware of interest in the forward after he scored a tremendous solo effort against German champions Bayern Munich at the ongoing Club World Cup.

It also states that no formal offer has yet been made, but the hierarchy are monitoring a move for the Uruguayan, who has netted 43 goals in the last three campaigns.

Why Spurs’ latest target could be Frank’s answer to Gyokeres

Spitting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres has been one of the most sought after talents throughout this summer window, looking almost certain to leave the Portuguese outfit ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

Various sides across the globe have been touted with a move for the 27-year-old’s signature and, unsurprisingly so given his record of 54 goals in his 52 outings this season.

Manchester United appeared to be the most likely destination given his previous stint under Ruben Amorim, but it now looks as though the Swede is pushing for a move to join North London rivals Arsenal.

Such a move will likely hand Mikel Arteta’s side an added attacking threat next season, with Spurs needing to make a move to land their own talisman this window.

Frank could land his own version of Gyokeres in the form of Merentiel, with the Boca talisman labelled as a similar player to the goalscoring sensation, according to FBref.

When comparing the pair’s respective stats, the Uruguayan has managed to match or better the Swede in various key areas, looking to be a shrewd addition for the Lilywhites this summer.

Merentiel, who’s been labelled “incredible” by journalist Johannes Skiba, has matched the Sporting star for goals per shot on target, but bettered him for shot-on-target accuracy - taking advantage of more opportunities that fall his way.

He’s also completed more progressive passes and completed more passes into the final third, having the all-round ability to provide those around him rather than relying on teammates creating chances for him in the final third.

The Boca star’s talents are further demonstrated with his take-on success and carries into the final third, showcasing his desire to take the ball forward at any given opportunity - therefore handing Frank’s side an added threat.

It’s unclear how much a deal for the 29-year-old would cost this summer, but it’s evident that he has all the tools needed to thrive in the Premier League.

If he can add further goals to his game in North London, he would be an excellent option for the Lilywhites in their quest to be competitive in Europe and England’s top flight next campaign.

Thomas Frank has a huge task on his hands next season if he is to transform the situation at Tottenham Hotspur after the club’s form in England’s top flight.

The Lilywhites finished the season in 17th place in the Premier League last time around, losing 22 times in the process - leading to Ange Postecoglou’s subsequent dismissal in North London.

However, the side’s Europa League triumph against Manchester United in Bilbao is evidence of the levels they can reach, needing to use such an achievement as a springboard into 2025/26.

Frank will need to be backed by the hierarchy in his quest, needing to make key changes to his squad he desires to push them back towards a top five finish in the near future.

The Dane has showcased at Brentford he’s able to thrive in the Premier League, hoping to do so again across the capital as he wastes no time in making moves in the market.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new attackers this summer

Wingers have been high up on their list in recent weeks, with Spurs strongly linked with a move to land Bryan Mbeumo, securing a return between the player and the manager.

However, he looks set to make a move to Manchester United this window, leading to West Ham United star Mohammed Kudus also emerging as a potential option.

Whilst the aforementioned duo have been on their radar, progress appears to have been made on a deal to land Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, according to one Spanish outlet.

Their report claims that Frank’s side are set to make a £65m bid to land the 25-year-old this window after 11 goals and five assists in the league this campaign.

It also confirms that the Cherries aren’t prepared to lose another one of their star players, but the Lilywhites are confident they can secure a move for his signature this window.

Why Semenyo would be Frank’s next Solanke

Striker Dominic Solanke joined in a £65m deal from the same club last summer, with the English international seen as the heir to Harry Kane after his departure 12 months prior.

The 27-year-old managed to score 16 times in his 45 appearances across all competitions, with five of his efforts coming in Europe and helping the side end their 17-year trophy wait.

Like many players in the current first team squad, he’s had his own injury issues this campaign, restricting him from having the dream first year in North London.

However, he’s still managed to showcase his talents within the final third, ending the year as the club’s second-highest goalscorer in the division for 2024/25.

Frank could be about to land his next version of Solanke this window, with Semenyo following in his footsteps and moving to Spurs to rekindle their impressive partnership.

Whilst the fee touted appears to be an expensive one, the Ghanaian international has showcased his skillset this season, adding a new dimension to Frank’s forward line should he complete a move.

Semenyo, who’s been labelled “incredible” by journalist Owuraku Ampofo, registered 16 combined goals and assists, a figure that would’ve made him the joint-highest contributor in the current squad.

His underlying stats are just as impressive, registering 1.2 shots on target per 90, along with 1.9 successful dribbles - highlighting the threat he poses in attacking areas.

The 25-year-old has also created 1.3 chances per 90, whilst also notching 5.9 touches in the opposition box per 90, having the tools to star alone or even provide players around him in North London.

If he can transfer his skillset over to the Lilywhites next season, it would be a superb deal at £65m, having the potential to improve further with further quality players around him in Frank’s side.

Such a transfer could provide the added cutting edge needed for success, handing the manager the best possible chance of impressing during his first year at the helm.

Tottenham Hotspur salvaged their season when they defeated Manchester United in the Europa League final last May, rolling out the carpet for Champions League football once more.

Having completed some housework already, finalising a shrewd £30m deal for Mathys Tel and sealing the permanent signing of Kevin Danso after his loan spell, new manager Thomas Frank has turned his attention to external solutions.

While the former Brentford boss would love nothing more than to reunite with Bryan Mbeumo, the Red Devils hold the lead in that race. As such, Spurs have turned their attention to Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo, having made contact with Bournemouth but made it known they have no interest in meeting the £70m asking price; the same is true for other suitors.

Despite an abject Premier League campaign, the Lilywhites have an exciting project indeed, and that's why they might want to turn to a Semenyo alternative who might even prove an upgrade.

Spurs lining up Semenyo alternative

As per L'Equipe, as relayed by GetFootballNewsFrance, Tottenham have received a huge boost in their bid to sign AS Monaco winger Maghnes Akliouche, who has been informed he could leave the Ligue 1 club for the right price this summer.

That price is marked at €60m (£51m), so he wouldn't come cheap. However, the 23-year-old ace is one of the most exciting talents in France and is also attracting interest from Nottingham Forest alongside Spurs, who are both chasing a deal for the starlet.

The Moroccan has yet to be the centre of an official bid, but if Bournemouth remain stubborn on their valuation of Semenyo, that could change very soon.

What Maghnes Akliouche would bring to Spurs

Akliouche has made headway at Monaco over the last few years, graduating from the academy to become one of the most influential members of the first team.

He's just come off the back of his most productive campaign, and having demonstrated such interesting year-by-year growth, might just be the perfect option to add to a developing Tottenham side showing itself to be a hothouse for young stars.

Indeed, Akliouche ranked among the top 14% of attacking midfielders and wingers last season for assists, the top 11% for progressive passes, and the top 16% for tackles per 90, as per FBref, illustrating both his creative flair and a tenacious approach to his football.

Typically playing off the right flank, Akliouche operates in a similar area to Semenyo, albeit he plays a different role. FBref have actually likened his style of play to that of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and the legendary Heung-min Son.

He notched 15 goal contributions in Ligue 1 last season, averaging 4.5 successful duels per game. He also created 15 big chances, as per Sofascore.

No question, Semenyo's the real deal, but is the 25-year-old worth £70m? He finished the 2024/25 campaign with 13 goals and seven assists across 42 matches in all competitions, very impressive for the Cherries, but perhaps not worth such a large sum.

Not when there's a "magician" in Akliouche potentially available, demonstrating incredible playmaking potential, with his "wand of a left foot" singled out for praise by talent scout Jacek Kulig.

Semenyo is an energetic and versatile forward himself, and he did average a greater amount of successful duels than Akliouche last term (6.1 per Premier League match), but Tottenham could do with some more creative ingenuity on the flanks to enhance Frank's system, and they already have a goalscoring specialist on the right in Brennan Johnson.

Moreover, the Morocco star has converted 12 big chances in the French top flight across the past two years, only missing 13 big chances, which speaks of a clinical instinct that Frank will be sure to tweak and develop on the training pitch.

While Semenyo would be a fantastic buy for the Londoners, Akliouche has a higher ceiling and would come at a cheaper fee.

Tottenham Hotspur boss Thomas Frank has recommended a highly-rated attacker to the Lilywhites hierarchy, and he could come in to replace a forward who's not in the Dane's long-term plans.

Spurs have many incomings and outgoings to address over the coming months, as chairman Daniel Levy and technical director Johan Lange reshape the squad to best prepare Frank for his first ever campaign as a Champions League manager.

Manor Solomon and Bryan Gil are almost certain to be leaving N17 this summer, having just spent 2024/2025 on loan at Leeds United and Girona respectively, with the latter confirming his intention to leave in a recent interview.

"That's something my agent will tell me where things are going, but they [Spurs] told me, and I told them, that the best thing is for us not to continue being linked to Tottenham," Gil told Estadio Deportivo in April.

"They bet on me when I was young, and they've treated me fairly well, but if I have to go back there, I'll focus on giving my best as always. I'm calm because no one can have a bad word to say about me not being professional. Without playing, I've always trained well, I've done what I had to do, so whatever has to happen, will happen. We'll see where we are next year."

Solomon's sale would count as pure profit in the eyes of PSR, considering he signed as a free agent in the summer of 2023, so it is likely that Spurs will sell the Israel international unless Frank or Levy decide otherwise.

Uncertainty surrounds the futures of Son Heung-min and Cristian Romero as well, amid repeated links to Saudi Arabia for the former and Atletico Madrid for the latter, with reports from Italy now claiming Wilson Odobert has been put on the transfer list as well.

Thomas Frank green-lights Gustan Isaksen move at Tottenham

That is according to Lalaziosiamonoi.it, who report that Frank doesn't fancy Odobert, and he will be allowed to leave N17 this summer.

They add that the 51-year-old personally has his eyes on a replacement for Spurs' exit-bound winger - Lazio star Gustan Isaksen.

The Denmark international racked up 49 appearances for Lazio in all competitions last term, registering 12 goal contributions in that time (six goals and six assists), and Frank is believed to be "crazy" about his compatriot.

Lalaziosiamonoi.it state that Frank has recommended Isaksen to the Tottenham hierarchy and would "welcome" a move for the 24-year-old. Isaksen would also be available for around £25 million, meaning he wouldn't exactly break the bank from Spurs' perspective.

The right-winger, who scored against European champions Spain and Switzerland during Denmark's UEFA Nations League campaign, could be a bargain heir to Son or Odobert, if either men do call time on their Tottenham careers before deadline day.

Ange Postecoglou cemented his legacy at Tottenham Hotspur when he led his side to glory in the Europa League last season, ending 17 years of searching for silverware down N17.

However, Spurs' 17th-place finish in the Premier League pass judgment on Postecoglou's tenure, ending his time in the dugout after two campaigns that were fraught with setbacks but charged by excitement.

Now, with Thomas Frank at the helm, Tottenham will hope to build on last year's success and establish themselves as one of the most dangerous clubs in England once again, having sealed their place in the Champions League too.

Daniel Levy will no doubt be doing some soul-searching after making the contentious call, but in Frank, the Londoners have bagged a manager capable of shaping talented players into shining stars.

The Danish tactician will relish the chance to work with Tottenham's crew, but he will need to be backed this summer, strengthening the squad with one or two attacking additions.

Spurs lining up attacking signings

Sure, Tottenham need reinforcements across the park, but with Heung-min Son entering the autumn of his career and attracting interest from suitors in the Middle East, fresh recruits are needed.

The 20-year-old Mathys Tel's loan move has been wrapped up for £30m, which could prove a shrewd deal indeed, but there's little question that more is needed, both out wide and as support for striker Dominic Solanke.

Looking at the flanks, West Ham United's Mohammed Kudus is available after a difficult campaign in east London, while L'Equipe have recently reported Lilywhites interest in AS Monaco's Maghnes Akliouche, who is valued at around €60m (£51m).

Bryan Mbeumo has also been at the centre of talks, and Frank would love nothing more than a reunion with his Brentford talisman. However, the prolific Cameroon international's preference is to sign for Man United this summer.

No matter, Tottenham appear to have found their dream alternative.

The Athletic's David Ornstein has confirmed that Tottenham have made an official enquiry for Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo. However, Daniel Levy has no intention of meeting the £70m asking price.

Man United are also keen but are in the same camp as Spurs, albeit they are leaning toward Mbeumo. With Semenyo thought to be keen on the move to north London, though, this one's hardly dead in the water.

Saying that, the Cherries are under no pressure to sell after offloading Dean Huijsen and Milos Kerkez.

Why Spurs should sign Antoine Semenyo

Bournemouth signed Semenyo from Bristol City for a smart £10.5m fee in January 2023, and has since gone from strong to stronger under the wing of Andoni Iraola.

Indeed, across the past two Premier League campaigns, the versatile winger has scored 19 goals and provided nine assists, underlaying his output with sharp, dynamic movements and a tenacious defensive attitude.

His completeness suggests Semenyo could even prove an upgrade on Brennan Johnson, 24, who is one of Tottenham's most prolific players but is guilty of drifting in and out of games, waning at points.

Two seasons into his career down N17, the Welshman posted 18 goals and seven assists last term, the most notable of which was the bundled-in winner to seal the Europa League title.

But he needs to do more across the wider game. As per Sofascore, Johnson averaged just 0.6 dribbles, 2.8 successful duels, and 0.6 key passes over last year's top-flight season, also creating just four big chances across his 33 appearances (24 of which were starts).

Semenyo, however, is far more complete. Not only did he score 11 goals and add five assists in the league (Johnson's haul was as follows: 11 goals, three assists), but the forward also averaged 1.9 dribbles, 6.1 duels, and 4.3 ball recoveries per game.

This suggests that the Cherries sensation could offer more to the team with his all-round game on the flank in comparison to Johnson's limited performances.

Described as a "duel monster" and a "workhorse off the ball" by analyst Ben Mattinson, the Bournemouth man is perfectly aligned with Frank's vision, especially when considering he plays in a similar fashion to Mbeumo.

Indeed, FBref record the Englishman to be of a statistical likeness to the Bees star, ranked as he was among the top 5% of the Premier League's attacking midfielders and wingers last year for shots taken, the top 20% for successful take-ons and the top 8% for aerials won per 90.

Semenyo's versatility has seen him provide a potent output both on the left and the right wing for Bournemouth, with his teammate Lewis Cook hailing his "aggressive" and "clinical" qualities.

Such praise underlines the Ghana international's suitability for a place in a Tottenham team hoping to cement themselves among Europe's elite for years to come while challenging for major honours with a newfound taste for triumph.

Of course, Johnson is hardly allergic to playing a definitive role in sealing silverware - just hark back to the Europa League final - but across the wider span of the campaign, Tottenham supporters cannot contest the fact that there was a consistent lack of consistency and fluency that led to the lowly Premier League finish.

Semenyo would change that, dovetailing into Frank's new Spurs system and rising to become the astute manager's new version of Mbeumo.

This wouldn't necessarily relegate Johnson to the backbenches, for the transfer target is competent across both wings, but there's no doubt that he would add a dimension which his counterpart has yet to unlock in its entirety.

Much depends on whether Levy can whittle down Bournemouth's hefty £70m fee. If the shrewd businessman can do so, he would strengthen the new Tottenham project and then some.