Football FanCast

Tottenham Hotspur boast a strong connection with the English national team. Harry Kane, one of the Lilywhites' greatest players of all time, is the captain and record scorer for the men's team, after all.

But it's a bond which runs far deeper than through just one person. In fact, no side in history has supplied more ammunition for the Three Lions than Spurs, with 81 first-team players having worn the white shirt on the international stage across the years.

Corinthian FC dissolved in 1939, following the outbreak of World War Two

And Thomas Frank's current crop of Tottenham talents continue to shine for the home nation, with Djed Spence the latest to earn his flowers for the side.

Djed Spence's Three Lions performance

Spence has earned rave reviews for his recent England performance, starring from left-back as Thomas Tuchel's team defeated Wales 3-0 in a friendly.

Storming up and down the left flank, the 25-year-old continued to strengthen what has been a significant revival over the past year or so, having beforehand looked apt to drift away from Tottenham contention and shelved in a dusty file.

But this couldn't be further from Spence's truth, having started five Premier League matches already this term after proving invaluable for Ange Postecoglou's struggling side in 2024/25.

As per FBref, the versatile defender ranks among the top 4% of positional peers across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for successful take-ons and the top 15% for progressive passes per 90, emphasising his technical and athletic qualities.

Spence is a testament to hard work and a never-say-die attitude, but he's not the biggest English talent at Frank's disposal.

Indeed, there's a rising star down N17 who has the skills to become a mainstay for his country.

Spurs have an even bigger English talent

The man in question is Archie Gray, who Tottenham fought tooth and nail to prise away from Brentford and sign for about £30m in July 2024. He left his boyhood club Leeds United in the Championship, having won the second tier's Young Player of the Year award. He was 18 years old.

It certainly wasn't all sunshines and rainbows for Tottenham last term, but the young Gray played admirably across the campaign, especially since he, a natural midfielder, was required to fill in at centre-half on more than a few occasions, featuring 46 times for the seniors across the year.

And, of course, he and his teammates were rewarded for their commitment and ability to weather harsh storms by triumphing in the Europa League, beating Manchester United in the final.

Though, since Frank's arrival, Gray has taken a step back, which is a positive thing. He is still a teenager and has much to learn. His potential was recognised last year, for sure.

However, having last started in the Premier League on the opening day of the season, playing just over 70 minutes, the ball-playing, tough-tackling talent will hope for further opportunities under Frank's wing. When he gets them, in a more stable system, he might just skyrocket to the upper level of the Spurs squad.

Hailed by analyst Ben Mattinson as being "one of the best talents England have", Gray might not have hit his prime yet, but he's only 19, and he has already showcased remarkable potential on the biggest stage.

In six years, he will reach Spence's current age of 25, and it's frightening to consider how good he might be at that point.

Tottenham Hotspur are keen to build a squad capable of competing under Thomas Frank, and could now be primed to add a prolific goalscorer to their ranks in January.

Tottenham prepare for Premier League return

The international break is in full swing and Spurs fans will be itching for their side to return to Premier League action against Aston Villa next weekend as they look to continue their excellent start to the season.

Intriguingly, they already appear to be making recruitment plans, and Brentford striker Kevin Schade is on Tottenham's radar as a target, according to Florian Plettenberg.

He said on X: "EXCL | Tottenham are among the teams closely monitoring the development of Kevin #Schade. The 23 y/o left-winger is under contract with Brentford until 2028, and Tottenham have shown interest in a potential transfer in the summer of 2026. One to watch this season — he is currently part of the German national team."

Breeding a sense of potential familiarity, Frank could also move to sign Vasco da Gama star Rayan, showing that his side are serious about taking their aspirations of achieving success to the next level.

Of course, it would be hard for either to immediately slot into his forward line, but competition will be imperative as they look to juggle domestic endeavors with European football this season.

Right now, it is hard to pin down exactly where Spurs' aspirations should sit.

Finishing in the Champions League slots would be an adequate return, though with their current form, it would be hard to rule out a challenge for the title if they can maintain momentum.

With that in mind, Spurs could now turn to a proven goalscorer to sharpen up their frontline if reports are to develop into something more.

Tottenham weighing up Samu Aghehowa move

According to Football Insider's Pete O'Rourke, Tottenham are eyeing a move for Porto striker Samu Aghehowa in light of his £86 million release clause at the Portuguese giants.

The 21-year-old has been in electric form for Porto recently, and he even once rejected a move to London rivals Chelsea in favour of remaining in Portugal.

O'Rourke stated:

“Chelsea [came] very close to signing him a couple of transfer windows ago before the player decided to stay.

“Then Newcastle had him on their list in the summer window as they looked at potential replacements for Alexander Isak before signing Nick Woltemade.

“So I think he’s a top young player, 21 years old, Spain international. It’s no surprise that Tottenham and all these other big clubs in the Premier League are looking at him.

"He’s a player with huge potential and could really develop into one of the best strikers in Europe, if he continues his rise. I think that’s why these Premier League clubs are looking at him.

"He has got a release clause in his contract at Porto of around £86million, which is a big price tag on his head. But, I think if he continues what he’s doing right now and develops as a player and fulfils his potential, that could be a decent fee for somebody who wants to take him.

"Tottenham, again, the number nine is coming a bit of an issue for them in some respects. Solanke’s had his injury problems so far this season. Then Richarlison has obviously slotted in and done quite well there, but there’s been ongoing speculation in regards to his future."

£86 million would be a hefty price to pay, though Aghehowa's potential and goalscoring return of 32 strikes in 53 matches for Porto may well be worth it, especially if Dominic Solanke continues to struggle with injury.

Richarlison is an able deputy, as is Mathys Tel, albeit the Spain international would add another layer of explosiveness to Frank's frontline if a deal were to come to fruition in N17.

Tottenham Hotspur have made a promising start to the campaign under Thomas Frank and could now be about to pursue a very familiar face to fans of the Premier League.

Tottenham look to build on solid start to Premier League campaign

The international break is always a frustrating time for supporters itching for their club to return. However, the Lilywhites will be positively reflecting on a fine start that has seen them climb to third in the top-flight standings.

Tactical tweaks and a renewed threat from set pieces have made Tottenham a force to be reckoned with in the Premier League, albeit they will need to be switched on to handle the challenge of facing Aston Villa, Newcastle United, Everton and Chelsea in the coming weeks.

While Tottenham have been at the centre of takeover interest from tech entrepreneur Brooklyn Earick, among other parties, it doesn't appear they are for sale, and a £100 million cash injection from the Lewis family will offer greater financial flexibility moving forward.

Whether this investment could be put towards the January window remains to be seen. Reports suggest Spurs are preparing a £26 million bid for Vasco da Gama star Rayan, indicating they are scouring the world for talent to enhance their bid for Champions League qualification.

Chelsea, Barcelona and Aston Villa are among his lengthy list of admirers, though Tottenham's project is as enticing as ever for potential new recruits.

Truthfully, the sky is the limit for Frank if his side continue this excellent run of form, with Spurs averaging close to 2 points per game since the Dane took over from Ange Postecoglou.

Nevertheless, there is a long way to go, and help may be required to ensure the North Londoners are in pole position to capitalise, hence their interest in a favourite of the Danish coach.

Tottenham want to sign Kevin Schade

According to Sky Germany's Florian Plettenberg, Tottenham are monitoring Brentford attacker Kevin Schade and could look to make a play for his arrival, albeit the transfer may be more likely to occur in the summer of 2026.

Plettenberg says he is "one to watch" this season, with the winger's contract expiring in under three years.

The Germany international has scored once in eight appearances this term, contributing to his overall total of 15 goals and five assists in 82 outings for the Bees

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Labelled "top class" by Frank, he brought Schade to the Gtech Community Stadium from Freiburg in 2023 and his faith has been repaid, with the 23-year-old establishing himself as a force predominantly on the left flank.

This term, the Potsdam-born man has created five chances and completed three successful crosses in the Premier League, per Fotmob, shining in a Brentford side that have struggled for momentum under Keith Andrews.

Either way, he could now be set for a move across the capital, though Tottenham will need to fend off competition from the likes of Borussia Dortmund for his signature.

Harry Kane might not be plying his trade for Tottenham Hotspur anymore, but he’s a player who will forever remain in their history for his efforts in North London.

The England international was a product of the Lilywhites’ academy setup, subsequently bursting through the ranks before securing his place in the first-team back in 2014.

He would make 435 appearances for the club during his decade in the first-team, even breaking the record for the most goals scored by a player in their history.

His tally of 280 goals surpassed the record set by the late Jimmy Greaves, but his talents within the final third have also been reflected in his international career.

Kane has scored 74 goals for his country, which has also allowed him to break the record set by former Manchester United talisman Wayne Rooney.

However, in 2025, the Lilywhites have a crop of fellow English talents, with many hoping to follow in the striker’s footsteps in being a mainstay on the international stage.

Spurs’ star performers for England in recent years

Alongside Kane, Spurs have had numerous players who have represented England at international level, many of whom have starred and made themselves key members of the squad.

Dominic Solanke and James Maddison have both previously been named in the Three Lions’ squad, but have been unable to make any appearances in recent months due to their respective injury issues.

However, Djed Spence is the latest player to break into Thomas Tuchel’s squad, even starting the friendly against Wales at Wembley on Thursday night.

The full-back featured for 90 minutes in the triumph over Craig Bellamy’s side, subsequently pocketing teammate Brennan Johnson and firing shade at the winger on social media.

His underlying stats were just as impressive, with the defender completing 98% of the passes he attempted, whilst also winning 100% of the tackles he entered.

With the 25-year-old the latest player to make his mark for England, there will be hope that another youngster in the Lilywhites ranks can follow in his footsteps in the years ahead.

The Spurs star who could be England’s next superstar

After making 19 appearances for Spurs last season, 18-year-old winger Mikey Moore is a player with a huge future ahead of him in North London.

He’s spent the majority of his life on the books of the Lilywhites, but was catapulted into the limelight last season as a result of the injury crisis under Ange Postecoglou.

Such a situation even led to the teenager scoring his first professional goal in the meeting with Elfsborg in the Europa League - a moment that will undoubtedly stick with him forever.

However, he was loaned out by Thomas Frank this summer, subsequently joining Rangers until the end of the 2025/26 campaign to gain valuable minutes to continue his progression.

He’s not the only talented Englishman within their ranks, with 16-year-old star Luca Williams-Barnett another player who is set for a bright future in North London.

The attacking midfielder has been starring way above his age group over the last few seasons, with the youngster featuring in the U18s for the majority of 2024/25.

He ended the year with a staggering 23 goals and nine assists in his 24 outings for the Lilywhites, resulting in a jump up once again - now becoming a key member of the U21 side.

Such form has led to the teenager being handed his first senior appearance against Doncaster Rovers last month - with analyst Ben Mattinson labelling him “one of England’s best talents”.

Williams-Barnett’s first-team outing is one thing, but he’s also managed to thrive in the youth ranks once again, now registering eight goals and five assists in his nine outings in all competitions.

His numbers for the U21s are nothing short of sensational, with the teenager now boasting the best record of any player in the squad - an unthinkable feat for someone playing five years above their age category.

Williams-Barnett has also cemented his place in the England U18 setup, making three appearances already this campaign and scoring on two occasions - further showcasing his incredible talents.

Given his tender age, there’s no denying that the attacker needs more time in the academy system to develop before being able to make the jump into the first-team squad.

However, if he continues on his current trajectory, there’s no reason why he can’t emulate Kane’s success, whether that be in North London for Spurs or even on the international stage for England.

Tottenham Hotspur have been lucky enough to have numerous top-level attacking talents on their hands over the last couple of years - often handing the supporters moments to cherish forever.

Heung-min Son is just one player who falls into such a category, with the South Korean forward a talent who often managed to produce the goods within the final third.

The winger scored a total of 173 goals for the Lilywhites, a tally which puts him fourth in the club’s record books, with an impressive chunk coming against local rivals, Arsenal.

He scored nine times in his 22 appearances against the Gunners, the third most of any side he’s faced in his career - further highlighting his impact in the North London Derby.

However, despite his impact for Spurs, he was unable to better one player who has often proved to be a thorn in the side of the club in the meetings against them.

Bukayo Saka’s form against Spurs

After his breakthrough in 2020, Arsenal star Bukayo Saka has featured against Spurs on ten separate occasions, subsequently being on the winning side in 60% of the outings.

The Englishman has scored five times against the Lilywhites, averaging a goal every other game and often popping up and finding the net in key moments of derby encounters.

He may not have scored in any of the clashes last season, but he did register the assist for Gabriel’s second-half winner, with Mikel Arteta’s side once again claiming bragging rights.

Saka has now registered 25 or more combined goals and assists in each of his last three seasons, further highlighting the top-level talent he possesses, all despite being just 24 years of age.

Given the levels he’s produced, there’s no denying the Lilywhites faithful must wish they had a player of his calibre, but it’s safe to say stars such as the winger would now cost a pretty penny.

However, boss Thomas Frank shouldn’t worry, with the Dane already having his very own version of the Englishman within his ranks at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

The Spurs star who’s Frank’s own Saka

Spurs’ 2024/25 campaign was a topsy-turvy one to say the least, with huge highs being achieved all whilst failing to deliver in other competitions under Ange Postecoglou.

The Aussie ended their 17-year wait for a trophy with their Europa League triumph, but ultimately, it glossed over the cracks that appeared in the Premier League.

He could only achieve a 17th-placed finish in England’s top-flight, subsequently suffering 22 defeats in the process - something which would cost him his job in North London.

Frank was appointed as the manager to pick up the pieces, a task he’s seamlessly taken to immediately, as seen by his tally of just one loss in his opening nine competitive outings.

While he’s added the likes of Mohammed Kudus and Xavi Simons to his ranks this summer, he already had his answer to Saka within his ranks in North London.

Dejan Kulusevski is a player who’s yet to feature under the Dane due to injury, but there’s no denying that the attacker will have a huge role to play upon his return in the months ahead.

The Swede, who has been dubbed "phenomenal" by one creator, is currently sidelined with a knee injury, but did manage to star on a consistent basis in 2024/25 before he went under the knife to fix the recurring issue.

He registered 10 goals and 11 assists across all competitions last campaign, ending the year as one of the Lilywhites’ most creative outlets within attacking areas.

Such is the level of his performances last year, he was dubbed as a similar player to Saka by FBref, further highlighting how impressive he was under Postecoglou.

When comparing their respective figures, Kulusevski managed to outperform the Arsenal star in various key areas, showcasing the huge amount of quality he possesses.

The table highlights the depth of areas he managed to outclass Saka, with his return to fitness undoubtedly a huge boost to Frank and the Spurs fanbase.

It’s unclear what level of fitness he will possess after such a long injury layoff, but when he gets fully firing, the Swede will add another dimension to the club’s potent frontline.

If he can replicate or better his numbers from last year, there’s no reason as to why the forward can’t help Frank make his first season in North London one to remember.

Tottenham have emerged as favourites to sign a "game-changing" forward as the Lewis family make their sporting intentions for Spurs clear this week, having pumped £100 million worth of capital into the club.

Tottenham given £100m cash boost after Lewis family injection

On Thursday, the Lilywhites made an official announcement of their owners' call to back the club with fresh funding, with Thomas Frank's side receiving nine figures which will be spent on the day-to-day running of Spurs.

CEO Vinai Venkatesham, alongside new non-executive chairman Peter Charrington, will now decide where specifically this new money will be invested — and some of this cash may well go into their transfer planning.

Sky Sports reporter Kaveh Solhekol shared news last month that the Lewis family were planning to inject funds into Tottenham, and suggested that these finances could be reinvested into their recruitment drive.

With January on the horizon, Frank may well be backed with key reinforcements, amid reports that the North Londoners want to sign a new centre-back and winger (TEAMtalk).

Tottenham missed out on a deal for Man City winger Savinho in the summer after having two bids rejected, and he's since put pen to paper on a contract extension at Eastlands running until 2031.

Spurs are also admirers of Brentford captain Nathan Collins, Franks' former star at the Gtech Community Stadium, amid their pursuit of new defensive options.

Given the Lilywhites club-record signing Dominic Solanke has proved unreliable when it comes to fitness since his £65 million move from Bournemouth last year, not to mention doubts surrounding Richarlison, it is reported elsewhere that Tottenham could even bring in another number nine.

Frank has reportedly contacted former Brentford star Ivan Toney about the possibility of a loan move to Tottenham in January, but while this is yet to be backed up by reliable media sources, it is clear that Vasco de Gama sensation, Rayan, is on their radar.

Tottenham in pole position to sign Vasco de Gama star Rayan

Multiple reports from South America in the last month have claimed that Tottenham could open talks for Rayan, who's just become the youngest Vasco player to reach 10 Brazilian top flight goals since Dinamite in 1973.

The highly-rated teenager is one of Brazil's rising stars right now, scoring 14 goals in all competitions this season, and his contract is rumoured to contain a tantalising £35 million release clause.

Rayan's deal also expires in December 2026, meaning he can agree a pre-contract in July, and Vasco chiefs are working to protect themselves by agreeing a new contract to raise his exit clause, potentially to as high as £52 million.

That is according to journalist Jorge Nicola, who reports that Tottenham are currently in pole position to sign Rayan and are prepared to bid around £26 million as things stand, which would apparently meet Vasco's expected price.

Aston Villa, Barcelona, Chelsea, Brighton, Porto, Fiorentina, Zenit and even Nottingham Forest have also been linked with the 19-year-old, so he's currently a man in demand, with the possibility of an auction also there.

Vasco boss Fernando Diniz has lavished the right-winger's incredible potential already, calling him a "very rare" breed of player.

Tottenham manager Thomas Frank has been warned about a Spurs star who could cost his side points this season, with the Dane looking to continue building after his solid start to life at N17.

Thomas Frank earns Tottenham praise after good start to season

Barring fairly lucky draws against the likes of Wolves and Bodo/Glimt recently, with Frank's side snatching those results from the jaws of defeat, Spurs' new boss is beginning to win admirers.

Over his first 11 games at the helm, the 52-year-old has averaged close to 2 points per match, having suffered just one normal time loss since taking over from Ange Postecoglou in the summer.

From the offset, Frank prioritized building a strong defensive foundation, addressing one of Tottenham’s key weaknesses last term.

His teams are disciplined and organized, with Frank's arrival seriously reducing the defensive errors that previously plagued Spurs.

Centre-back duo Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero have thrived in the tactician's structure, with pundit Jamie O'Hara even boldly claiming they are the best defensive partnership in Europe right now and "walk" into Real Madrid's team.

After their gritty 2-1 win away to Leeds United, Spurs sit third in the Premier League table after both breaking their pre-international break curse and ending Leeds' year-long unbeaten run in the league at Elland Road.

There is an air of positivity around North London right now, especially after the Lewis family just pumped £100 million into Tottenham via ENIC, which suggests the post-Daniel Levy era could be an exciting one.

However, one puzzle that Frank needs to solve is what to do with midfielder Yves Bissouma.

The Mali international was omitted from Frank's UEFA Super Cup squad for disciplinary issues, specifically turning up late to training on more than one occasion, and is yet to play a single competitive minute for Tottenham so far this season.

This is partly down to injury, but reliable reports suggested that Spurs were open to offers for Bissouma when the Saudi, Turkish and Greek transfer windows were open past September 1 — indicating he may not have a long-term future.

The 29-year-old's contract expires in 2026, and he was also notably left out of Tottenham's 22-man Champions League squad.

Thomas Frank warned about Tottenham star Yves Bissouma

Speaking to Tottenham News, former Brentford boss Martin Allen has warned Frank that Bissouma could cost Tottenham points if they choose to reintegrate him into the fold, saying that the midfielder has got a lot of work to do.

Allen also suggested that Bissouma "can't be bothered" to make meetings or get in on time, which may be a real issue.

“He’s got a lot to prove,” Allen said.

“He is a good player, so we will see. Let’s hope his discipline can improve and his timekeeping for sure.

“I always felt that if you’re late off the pitch, and you can’t be bothered to make meetings and get in on time for training, then you’re going to be late on the pitch.

“And if you’re late on the pitch, it’s going to cost your team, it’s going to cost you goals, cost you points, and nobody wants that in their football club. So, he’s got a lot to do.”

The ex-Brighton star played a key role in Tottenham's journey to the Europa League final, starting both semi-final legs against Bodo/Glimt and the final against Man United.

Bissouma was a regular under Postecoglou overall, playing 44 times in all competitions last term, and if he can address his disciplinary issues, Frank could really use a player of his quality.

Son Heung-min's legacy at Tottenham Hotspur will live on for generations.

The South Korean international made 454 appearances for Spurs; only Steve Perryman, Gary Mabbutt, Pat Jennings, Tom Morris, Cyril Knowles and Glenn Hoddle can boast more.

During ten years at the club, Son scored 173 goals, thereby behind only Harry Kane, Jimmy Greaves, Bobby Smith and Martin Chivers, fittingly bowing out having hoisted aloft the Europa League trophy in Bilbao.

Now at LAFC, Son is loving life in MLS, scoring eight goals in nine appearances to date, including a hat-trick against Real Salt Lake in Utah last month.

Back at Tottenham, the question was always going to be how would they fill Son's void, who has been a virtual ever-present in the Spurs side for ten years, but have they struck gold on an "absolute jewel"?

Why Spurs fans are excited about Luka Vušković

One thing you'll never be able to explain to non-football fans is supporters' propensity to get massively excited about a player who has never even played for their club before.

Well, Luka Vušković is the latest player to fall into this category.

The 18-year-old centre-back joined Tottenham from Hajduk Split earlier this summer for a reported fee of £12m, despite having made only 11 senior appearances for the Croatian giants, on top of 14 on loan at Radomiak Radom in the Ekstraklasa.

Thus, he was loaned out to Hamburg, certainly impressing for die Rothosen so far.

He has started each of their last four Bundesliga matches, opening the scoring against Heidenheim at Volksparkstadion, helping to secure their first victory back in the top division.

HSV supporter Fiago labelled him the "best 18 year old centre-back I‘ve ever seen in my life", while Jacek Kulig of Football Talent Scout believes that he is "destined for great things".

Well, his statistics certainly make for impressive reading.

Thus, there's plenty of reasons why Spurs supporters should be excited about Vušković, but do they have an even bigger talent already in this squad?

Tottenham's next Son Heung-min

Because he arrived in January, initially on loan, before the move was made permanent in June for around £30m, Mathys Tel joining Tottenham seems to have gone under the radar, but could prove to be an excellent piece of business.

This season did not start particularly well for the Frenchman, not included in Spurs' Champions League squad, admitting that he is "definitely hurt" by the decision.

However, at the weekend, Tel responded by scoring his first goal of the season, breaking the deadlock against Leeds at Elland Road.

Manager Thomas Frank stated that he was incredibly "emotional" after this goal as he is "so happy for him. I think the character he's shown from a young man just really impressed me from day one".

So why is Tel so highly-rated?

Well, after making only ten appearances for Stade Rennais, Bayern Munich signed him for around £25m back in the summer of 2022, at which point Jacek Kulig of Football Talent Scout labelled him an "absolute jewel​​​​​​​".

He scored 16 goals in only 83 appearances for the Bavarian giants, known for his blistering pace, becoming Bayern's youngest-ever goalscorer when he netted against Viktoria Köln in the DFB-Pokal.

Nevertheless, the presence of a certain Harry Kane limited his game time, hence why Bayern reluctantly sold him to Spurs.

Well, according to Football Transfers, Tel's estimated value is around £45m, for comparison, Vušković is valued at around £14m, suggesting the £30m Tottenham paid is a real bargain.

So, why could he replicate Son's success?

Well, the South Korean also arrived from the Bundesliga at the age of 21, a year older than Tel is now, while the pair also have positional and stylistic characteristics, both possessing electrifying pace as well as an eye for goal, often deployed from the left but capable of playing through the middle too.

Thus, with Dejan Kuluševski, James Maddison and Dominic Solanke all currently sidelined, Spurs are crying out for some creativity in their forward line, something Tel could very much provide.

Having already proved himself capable of contributing at a high level at such a young age, Tel may well be the biggest talent in the Tottenham squad, not to dampen any of the justified excitement around Vušković!

Tottenham Hotspur are a team in transition. But this passage of action, during which Spurs will fully embrace Thomas Frank's tactics after summer spending and a divorce with Ange Postecoglou, doesn't have to be unsuccessful.

Because Tottenham won the Europa League last season, Ange making good on a promise, and now they are Champions League competitors once again. In the Premier League, Spurs have had a few hiccups but boast 14 points from seven fixtures, just two points and places behind pace-setters Arsenal.

This speaks of progress, Tottenham making inroads as they look to cement themselves at the front of the English top flight and ensure last season's triumph does not prove to be a flash in the pan.

Impressive though the Londoners' start has been, they sit 13th in the xG (expected goals) charts after seven matches. Though 13 goals have been scored, the xG total is just 7.4, which can be used to highlight the need for more fluent and incisive attacking play.

That is to say, Spurs could still do with another top-class striker.

Why Spurs still need a striker

Just one year ago, Tottenham broke their transfer record to bring over Dominic Solanke from Bournemouth for a £65m fee, add-ons included.

Last year was a struggle for Tottenham, and Solanke suffered on an individual level too, scoring only nine times in the Premier League as knee issues disrupted his year.

This term, the 27-year-old featured twice off the bench at the start of the league term before suffering an ankle injury.

Richarlison has been in red-hot form so far this season, but the Brazil international is notorious for his ebb and flow from form and confidence, and his fitness record leaves something to be desired too.

Heung-min Son's summer departure has taken something from Tottenham; Frank lacks a goalscorer of the highest standard. Even so, Spurs are growing by the game, and when this final piece of the puzzle is found, it could be scary stuff for the rest of the Premier League.

Of course, this doesn't necessarily have to come in the form of a big-money signing. Harry Kane graduated from the Tottenham academy before going on to become one of the deadliest goalscorers in English football history, after all.

Kane was sold to Bayern Munich two years ago, and perhaps there is still a search down N17 for the England skipper's successor.

That said, though, some privy to Tottenham's deadlings at youth level would suggest maybe that signature has already been penned.

Spurs have already signed the next Kane

Kane has been incredible for Bayern Munich, ending his trophy-chasing hoodoo and consolidating his position as one of the best players of his generation. This season, the 32-year-old has scored 18 goals across just ten matches in all competitions.

Replacing him has proved a tough ask, but since Kane originated from the Tottenham academy, some coaches at the club might be excited at the thought of repeating the trick with new signing Mason Melia.

Melia, 18, will join Tottenham in a deal rising to £3m in January 2026, with St Patrick's Athletic confirming it is the record sale for an Irish Premiership side.

Not technically a part of Spurs' youth set-up, Melia is sure to cut his teeth at development level before breaking onto the senior stage. But the early readings are promising indeed, with 94 appearances for St. Pat's and 24 goals and eight assists to his name.

Described as "the Irish Alexander Isak" for his effortless strike of the ball and his ball-carrying ability, there's no question that Melia has the base qualities to become a success as Frank's frontman, with Liverpool's new talisman widely regarded as one of the best strikers in the world.

Melia made his first-team debut in his homeland when he was only 15, and the fact that he is approaching centurion status just three years later, 18 years old, tells much of the high regard he is held in.

Twinkle-toed and innately comfortable in the final third, the Irishman has the potential to be a star. The next Kane? That's a tough one, but his progress thus far as a professional and the likeness to Isak confirm his potential.

It is just as exciting to note that this is not a transfer target, admired and considered against the backdrop of rival interest, but a Tottenham player in all but his shirt, with the completion date now on the horizon. Melia will touch down in London and establish his craft, developing the skills which have been marked as Premier League-worthy.

And Tottenham, after all, have made landing elite-level prospects their business over the past few years. The academy scouts know when they have sighted a star in the making.

It is too soon to pass judgement on Melia, who has not even officially left his homeland to join the Lilywhites. But the talent is there, with his ranginess, movement and presence in the final third indeed leading to comparisons against Isak, the British record man.

While the Lewis family will be wary about a knee-jerk reaction, spending big on another number nine, it may be that another signing must be made to tide things over.

But, looking through a longer lens, Melia might just prove to be the next superstar in north London.

Tottenham striker Richarlison could leave the club in 2026, and it is believed that Thomas Frank has already been offered a replacement for the Brazilian.

Richarlison targeted by Orlando City with talks held

The 28-year-old started this season in electric fashion, scoring an early goal of the season contender with a bicycle kick against Burnley on the opening day, but doubts have surrounded Richarlison's ability to lead the line on a consistent basis.

Signed for £60 million from Everton, the striker's flashes of brilliance have been undercut by stretches of inconsistent form and bad luck with injuries.

Frank dropped Richarlison in favour of Mathys Tel against Leeds, with the Frenchman responding by scoring their opening goal of the game and helping Tottenham to a gritty 2-1 win at Elland Road.

“Richarlison for me, big money, £60 million he cost. He started the season on fire, two goals against Burnley, then scored a tap-in against Brighton,” pundit Gabriel Agbonlahor told talkSPORT last week.

“Then you’re like, this could be the season Richarlison kicks on and becomes the main man, but the same thing happens season after season with Richarlison.

“He will have a couple of good games, he’ll have three or four games where he will give absolutely zero, and if he’s leading your line, with Solanke’s injury problems, that’s a scare for me for Spurs.”

With his contract expiring in 2027, CEO Vinai Vinkatesham and the new-look Spurs board must make a decision on the striker's long-term future soon.

Crystal Palace have been named as a potential destination for Richarlison, as have MLS side Orlando City, who've moved with the most serious intent so far.

Oscar Pareja's side held a meeting with the forward's representatives in London ahead of a potential 2026 move, according to reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano, with an exit for Richarlison next summer viewed as possible, even if he's a "key player" for Frank at this moment in time.

Dominic Solanke's injury woes, with the striker still out of action after minor ankle surgery, also highlights the potential need for Spurs to consider new striker options heading into next year.

Frank is said to have personally contacted Ivan Toney about the possibility of joining Tottenham on loan in January, according to some reports, and now Juventus striker Dušan Vlahović has emerged as an option too.

Tottenham offered Juventus striker Dušan Vlahović by agents

According to journalist Graeme Bailey and TBR Football, Vlahovic's camp are reaching out to potential suitors, and they've held talks with Spurs.

The Serbia international's contract expires in 2026, meaning he could be available either for free next summer or for a small fee in January. He's started the campaign in fine form — scoring four goals in eight appearances so far — including a brace against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League.

That being said, he'd almost certainly have to take a dramatic pay cut on his rumoured £370,000-per-week wages if a move to N17 is to become possible.

As Tottenham are offered the chance to sign Vlahovic, with Barcelona and Bayern Munich also weighing up free transfer offers next summer, Frank's side could potentially sneak ahead of the European heavyweights by agreeing a low-cost winter deal.

Money won't be an obstacle, especially since the Lewis family have just pumped £100 million into Spurs via ENIC.

What's more, Real Madrid superstar Kylian Mbappé has already called Vlahovic "one of the best of his generation".