Football FanCast

Tottenham are unrelenting in their pursuit of fresh additions right now, and are looking to maintain their momentum after hijacking Chelsea's deal for Xavi Simons in the early hours of Friday morning.

Simons, who can play out wide in Son Heung-min's previous position, and as a central playmaker to combat the losses of Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison through injury, has arrived at N17 with bags of potential.

After Tottenham agreed a £52 million deal for the ex-La Masia gem from under Chelsea's nose, following "overnight" talks (Fabrizio Romano), Simons now dons the iconic number 7 shirt previously worn by Son.

The Netherlands international spent a fair portion of early 2024/2025 out with ankle ligament damage, but still managed 14 goal contributions over his final 18 Bundesliga appearances for Leipzig last season.

Simons' proven quality, versatility and experience for his age (nearly 140 senior appearances in total) makes him a statement last-minute signing for Spurs, not to mention a much-needed one after their botched deals for Morgan Gibbs-White and Eberechi Eze.

“He’s a player who has proved his ability over the years to provide goals and assists from both the 10 position and the left-wing, Xavi can play in both positions,” said Spurs boss Thomas Frank about Simons.

“He’s a very good finisher inside and outside the box. His dribbling ability, and his acceleration in bursts, give him that opportunity to go past players in one-on-ones, also to drive past players in more open spaces. His eye for his teammates is key, in terms of unlocking defences, and I’m convinced he will come in and help the team and be part of a team that is working very hard together.

“Xavi is young, 22, he has plenty of room to develop and get better, but even though he’s young, he’s played a lot of matches over the last four, five years, which means I’m fully convinced with his qualities he can step straight in and help us."

Following on from their move for Simons, it is believed that Tottenham want to sign another attacking player and centre-back before the Monday 7pm cut-off.

Tottenham make £17 million bid for Man City defender Manuel Akanji

According to Sky Italia, Tottenham and AC Milan's race for Man City defender Manuel Akanji has taken a twist.

As per their information, while the Rossoneri have made an offer for the 71-cap Swiss international, who scored against Portugal at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, it is Spurs emerging as favourites for his signature.

For one, Akanji would prefer to remain in the Premier League. And two, Tottenham have made the highest offer for Akanji to City, amounting to around £17 million and trumping Milan's opening proposal of £13 million plus bonuses.

Milan are working to reach an agreement with the player, but it appears they have some groundwork to cover if they're to beat Frank's side to Akanji's signature.

Interestingly, if Milan fail to win this transfer against the Lilywhites, they've identified former Spurs defender Juan Foyth as an alternative.

Tottenham Hotspur are maintaining their push for new signings and have no intention of stopping after sealing a £52 million deal for Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig.

Simons has been announced as Spurs' latest summer acquisition following an "overnight" agreement in the very early hours of Friday morning (Fabrizio Romano) - gifting Thomas Frank with a versatile new attacking player.

The 22-year-old, who bagged 11 goals and eight assists over 33 appearances in all competitions last season, despite suffering an ankle ligament injury which kept him out for two months, comes to north London with bags of potential.

Chelsea were in talks to sign Simons for weeks, and even agreed personal terms with the Dutchman before Tottenham swooped in and hijacked their deal - just over a week after Arsenal did the same thing to them with Eberechi Eze.

Simons is capable of dazzling both as a winger and in the middle as a playmaker, meaning Tottenham could well decide to bring in another CAM and put the Dutchman out wide, or at the very least sign another attacking player who can interchange roles with their newest recruit.

Spurs still want to make another forward signing before the 7pm deadline on Friday, so this could be one to watch out for, and it is believed that they're also in the market for a centre-back.

Radu Dragusin tore his ACL in the winter and has been running on grass for weeks, but while he's expected to return to first-team training soon, it'll be a long while before he's fully match fit (Alasdair Gold).

This means that signing another central defender is viewed as a key item on Tottenham's to-do list as we approach the Monday cut-off, with Man City defender Manuel Akanji now emerging as a top target.

The Switzerland international (30) has just two years left on his contract and Galatasaray already have a financial agreement with City, but Akanji is taking his time to decide his next move and Spurs could well tempt him (Jack Gaughan).

However, there is also stiff competition from AC Milan, who've made a verbal proposal to Pep Guardiola's side (Fabrizio Romano).

Tottenham in talks to sign Manuel Akanji from Man City

As per journalist Graeme Bailey, speaking to TBR Football, Tottenham are in talks for Akanji too, and the £180,000-per-week defender is intrigued by the prospect of a move to N17.

Akanji likes the idea of a San Siro move as well, but the Rossoneri face a major roadblock in their wages. The centre-back's salary isn't an issue for Tottenham, though, who have a slender advantage in the race for his signature.

“Akanji could stay, he loves it at City, but I am told he is tempted by Milan and now Tottenham and there is a good chance he moves," said Bailey.

“His wages are an issue for the Italian club. However, they are happy to meet the asking price for the player, which is around £15 million. Now Tottenham have entered the conversation and are holding talks – unlike Milan they don’t have an issue with his salary.”

The former Borussia Dortmund ace joined City for what turned out to be one of their biggest ever bargains in 2022, with Akanji becoming one of Guardiola's mainstay defenders in their 2023 treble-winning season.

Tottenham remain active in the summer transfer window as we fast approach deadline day in just 48 hours' time, with Spurs having until just 7pm on Monday to get all of their desired deals over the line.

Thomas Frank has officially welcomed highly-rated playmaker Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig, in a deal which insider Paul O'Keefe claims could be worth a club-record £125 million (including wages and add-ons spread over his potential seven-year contract).

The actual club-to-club fee was £52 million for an attacking player who bagged 11 goals and eight assists over 33 appearances last season, despite missing a portion of the early season with ankle ligament damage.

After returning from injury, Simons racked up 14 goal contributions in Leipzig's final 18 Bundesliga games - standing out as one of the major positives in what was an otherwise dismal season for Ole Werner's side.

Tottenham satisfyingly hijacked one of their main London rivals, Chelsea, in the process of signing Simons.

The 22-year-old had agreed terms with Enzo Maresca's men, but weeks of negotiations between Leipzig and Chelsea, which failed to get anywhere quickly enough, handed the Lilywhites an opportunity to swoop in and steal the Netherlands sensation from under BlueCo's nose.

Frank played a key role in convincing Simons to make the move to a different part of London, presenting Simons with an appealing project.

“First of all, the project suited me. The second most important thing for me is the coach. I spoke to him, he showed me a presentation that really impacted me and that was the final decision for me. It’s the right coach, the right people and I believe that we will achieve really good things," said Simons after he was announced as a new Tottenham player.

“Obviously, we spoke about football – the way he sees the team, the way he sees me in the team. The second part was that I had a really, really, really good feeling with him. I think that connection that you have and that you need at the start with someone is important, and after the meeting I said to my family, ‘yeah, this is it!’”

Spurs are in the market for another attacking player, and whoever the recruitment team lands on could well be another central attacking midfielder, considering Simons is versatile enough to play on the left-wing.

The former PSG and Barcelona academy man thrived in that area on numerous occasions last term, so it cannot be ruled out that Daniel Levy and co will bring in another versatile player who can interchange roles in that same respect.

Atlético Madrid expecting Conor Gallagher bid from Tottenham

According to Spanish newspaper Marca, £150,000-per-week Atlético Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher, who can play in the central playmaker role and even out wide on occasion, is a target for Spurs heading into deadline day.

The England international is largely a traditional centre-midfielder, but can contribute effectively going forward - bagging 10 goal contributions under Diego Simeone in all competitions during his debut campaign in Spain.

Marca reports that Tottenham are one of the "most interested" clubs in signing Gallagher, and Atlético are expecting the north Londoners to make a late offer for his signature.

Currently, Atlético have adopted a 'not for sale' stance and are not particularly keen on losing the 25-year-old, but a seismic offer could change their minds.

Huge excitement has been building at Tottenham Hotspur over the last couple of days, and understandably so, given the news breaking out of North London.

Xavi Simons looks set to be the latest player to join Thomas Frank’s squad this summer, after a €60m (£52m) agreement was reached with RB Leipzig for the Dutchman’s signature.

The player himself has been in London over the last couple of days, even having his medical with his Lilywhites, with a deal expected to be completed before Monday’s deadline.

Such a move will see the club finally land the attacking midfielder that the hierarchy have been constantly hunting for over the last couple of months.

However, despite the big-money addition of the former PSG youngster, further additions appear to be in the pipeline, with Daniel Levy looking to hand the new boss the tools he needs for success.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions

Leicester City star Bilal El Khannouss has been a name constantly mentioned with a move to Spurs this summer, after suffering relegation to the Championship at the end of last season.

A fresh report has stated that the Lilywhites could yet make a late move for the Moroccan international this summer, adding further depth to Frank’s attacking department.

However, he’s not the only player currently in their sights, with Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers another star they’re considering a move for, according to Football Insider.

Their report states that the Lilywhites have been in discussions with Unai Emery’s men, but a deal could be an expensive one, given their stance on the player not being for sale.

It also claims that Spurs are confident are taking advantage of the Villans’ PSR standing, potentially completing a deal which could cost as much as £80m before the transfer deadline.

Why Spurs’ £80m target is a bigger talent than Simons

The pending addition of Simons is a huge signal of intent from the Spurs hierarchy, landing a talent who has been hugely in demand throughout the current window.

Chelsea were one side said to be interested in the Dutchman’s signature in recent weeks, with talks for his services even being at an advanced stage - but Frank’s side appear to have hijacked the move.

The deal has seen the Lilywhites complete their own overtake for a transfer, after losing out on deals to sign Morgan Gibbs-White and Eberechi Eze earlier in the window.

Such a deal will massively improve the options currently at the manager’s disposal, especially after the injuries suffered to James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski.

However, a late move for Rogers would undoubtedly trump a deal for Simons, having experience in England’s top-flight, whilst also starring in such a division in recent seasons.

When comparing the pair’s respective stats from 2024/25, the Englishman managed to outperform the pending new addition in various key areas for attacking areas.

Rogers, who’s been labelled as “phenomenal” by Lee Hendrie, posted a higher tally of goals and assists, whilst also registering a better shot on target accuracy rate - offering Frank’s side an added threat in front of goal throughout 2025/26.

He also completed more of the key passes he attempted per 90, an asset that would add a needed creative presence to the midfield department.

The Englishman’s dominance with the ball at his feet is further highlighted by his higher take-on success rate - subsequently able to drive past the opposition and put the final touches on any driving run into attacking areas.

Whilst £80m would be yet another expensive addition this summer, it’s one that could add further quality and versatility to the Lilywhites’ potent front line.

The prospect of Rogers linking up with Simons in North London is certainly one for the fanbase to get excited about, having the chance to play a huge role in their ability to build on last year’s Europa League success.

Five goals scored, none conceded, and a 100% win record - it’s safe to say it’s been a dream start to Thomas Frank’s tenure as Tottenham Hotspur manager.

Winning against newly-promoted Burnley on home soil was to be expected, but the Lilywhites’ second showing of the new Premier League season is what has led to the growing excitement at the club.

Frank’s men secured a superb 2-0 win against Manchester City at the Etihad last weekend, limiting Pep Guardiola’s side to limited opportunities throughout.

However, despite the excellent start in England’s top-flight, attention has been shifted to the transfer market, with work being done tirelessly behind the scenes to secure added reinforcements.

Numerous players remain in their sights, but it remains to be seen how many more big-money additions will be made before Monday’s transfer deadline.

The latest on Spurs' hunt for new additions this summer

In a move that has seemingly exploded into life over the last 24 hours, attacking midfield star Xavi Simons has now been confirmed as the next player through the doors at Spurs.

The Lilywhites agreed a €60m (£52m) deal with the Bundesliga outfit late last night, with a deal now completed - but he won't be able to feature in tomorrow's clash with Bournemouth.

However, he could be joined in North London by Savinho, as Daniel Levy continues to pursue a move for the Manchester City star, according to TEAMtalk.

Their report claims that Frank’s side remain in constant discussions with the Citizens over a possible transfer, even after previously failing to land the 21-year-old this summer.

It goes on to state that despite Guardiola’s reluctance to allow the Brazilian to depart, the player himself still wants the move - but it could be a pricey transfer, given City’s previous £70m asking price.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be a Kudus repeat

Despite the recent efforts in the market, Spurs have already completed a shrewd signing this summer - in the form of winger Mohammed Kudus from West Ham United.

The Ghanaian cost a fee in the region of £55m earlier this summer, already wasting no time in making an impact during the early weeks of his time in North London.

The 24-year-old has already registered two assists in as many league outings - one of which was for Richarlison’s goal of the season contender on the opening weekend.

However, he has plenty of time to build on his impressive start to life under Frank’s guidance, something which could be aided by Savinho’s potential arrival.

Similarities are evident between Kudus and the City star, with both talents being able to operate in wide or central areas when called upon by their respective managers.

The duo are both left-footed, often liking to cut inside onto their favoured foot when operating off the right-hand side - something which the former West Ham star has done in both his league outings with the Lilywhites.

Despite the big money forked out for Kudus this window, a deal for Savinho would offer added quality in the attacking areas - especially if he replicates his form from the Etihad in 2024/25.

The Brazilian, who’s been labelled “incredible” by current boss Guardiola, ranked in the 96th percentile for progressive carries per 90 (7.1) - highlighting the threat he carries with the ball at his feet.

Such tallies have allowed him to torment countless backlines in the Premier League, also helping him to rank in the 94th percentile for shot-creating actions (5.7) - showcasing the similar threat he poses, like Kudus has demonstrated in North London.

Savinho has also ranked in the 95th percentile for successful take-ons per 90 (2.7), able to glide past the opposition before either getting a shot off or teeing up a teammate.

Whilst Kudus has already showcased he’s been an excellent addition so far this season, a move for Savinho could see him have a partner in crime within the final third.

The prospect of the duo linking up under Frank is certainly one to be excited about - but first the hierarchy need to negotiate a move with City - something which could prove difficult given their reluctance to sell the forward.

Fabrizio Romano has tipped Tottenham to sign two forwards, with chairman Daniel Levy and co making a decision on Richarlison's future at the club.

Spurs boss Thomas Frank has now welcomed playmaker Xavi Simons to N17 from RB Leipzig, after Spurs struck an overnight agreement for the Dutchman worth around £52 million.

After missing out on both Eberechi Eze and Morgan Gibbs-White in humiliating fashion, Simons' arrival comes as a much-needed boost to inject positivity ahead of what will be an interesting last three days of the window.

The 22-year-old bagged 11 goals and eight assists over 33 appearances in all competitions for Leipzig last season, despite missing a chunk of the early-campaign with ankle ligament damage.

Bundesliga expert Kevin Hatchard has alluded to sources in Germany claiming that Simons has attitude concerns, but this may just be paper talk, and supporters can expect a "silky" new playmaker capable of making a serious contribution in the final third.

“He scores goals, he makes goals, he's always trying to affect the game. He's a real puzzle, Xavi, because I like watching him play. I like what he brings to a game. He's got really silky skills," said Hatchard earlier this month.

“The debate in Germany has been: Is he a team player? Does he have attitude problems? All of that.

“Now, that might be paper talk. That might be just media noise, and it just isn't true, because there are some coaches that speak up for him."

In terms of other business that Levy, Johan Lange, CEO Vinai Vinkatesham and Fabio Paratici could conduct before the September 1 cut off time, it has been widely reported that Tottenham want a new defender and a new winger too.

Spurs were in lengthy talks to sign Savinho from Man City, but must now look at alternatives as Pep Guardiola's side adopt a firm 'not for sale' stance.

The Lilywhites are still actively pursuing a centre-back too, with City's Manuel Akanji on their list of targets heading into deadline day.

Tottenham tipped to sign two forwards with Richarlison decision made

Speaking on Men in Blazers earlier this week, trusted transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has said that he expects Tottenham to sign two new options up front before the end of the season, with Levy and co making a call on Richarlison's future.

It's actually good news for Spurs supporters, because Romano expects Frank's side to sign a forward duo on top of Richarlison - who won't be going anywhere this summer.

“Look, every summer we have rumours about Richarlison leaving. Every transfer window, January, summer, is always about that," said the reporter.

“But then it’s never close because the player is very happy at Tottenham and I’m hearing that Thomas Frank is also very happy with him.

“So I’m not sure he’s leaving. I also heard some rumours about a Newcastle player maybe being included in some deal. But I’m told that this is not the case.

“Richarlison is very happy at Tottenham. I see him staying and I see Tottenham signing two players up front before the end of the season, but not losing Richarlison.”

The 28-year-old, after a difficult 2024/2025 marred by injury, is beginning to hit his stride just in time - with Richarlison having one eye on a place in Brazil's 2026 World Cup squad.

The former Everton star bagged a brace against Burnley, including an early goal of the season contender, and assisted Brennan Johnson for Tottenham's opening goal in their outstanding 2-0 win at the Etihad last weekend.

Tottenham Hotspur have spoken to a Premier League club as Daniel Levy and co weigh up an "ambitious" late signing, according to a former Spurs employee.

Thomas Frank was gifted a major boost with the signing of playmaker Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig, who joins Spurs in a deal worth £52 million after putting pen to paper on a potential seven-year contract.

An agreement with Leipzig was reached "overnight" (Fabrizio Romano), with a medical taking place on Thursday as the north Londoners dished out a hijack of their own on Chelsea - just over a week after Eberechi Eze was stolen from them by Arsenal.

Simons' arrival does wonders to combat the losses of James Maddison, who'll miss most of 25/26 after rupturing his ACL, and Dejan Kulusevski, who remains out for some time with a knee problem.

While Simons is over the line, reports have suggested that Tottenham may not be done in the attacker market just yet, as they've been after a winger too.

Spurs' talks for Savinho, despite Levy's best efforts, ended up going nowhere - with the Brazilian very likely to stay at Man City barring a dramatic late twist as the Lilywhites turn their attentions to alternative targets.

Son Heung-min's departure to LAFC earlier this month has left Tottenham short out wide, and one man who could fill the void left by his exit is Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers.

While the England international, valued at £80 million by Villa, is naturally a CAM, he can be deployed on both the left and right-hand side - featuring a lot in those areas under Unai Emery last term.

Rogers bagged 14 goals and 16 assists in all competitions across 24/25, and signing the 23-year-old with Simons would be a major statement of intent.

Tottenham have spoken to Aston Villa about signing Morgan Rogers

According to Tottenham's former scout, Mick Brown, the north Londoners have spoken to Villa about signing Rogers, in what would be an "ambitious" move from the club.

“Morgan Rogers would be an ambitious move for Tottenham,” he told Football Insider.

“The main thing with Villa at the moment, there are those financial issues hanging over them.

“They haven’t been able to spend big, so they want to keep the players they have got, and that will direct Morgan Rogers’ future and whether they let him go. He’s done really well at Villa so it’s no surprise there is interest in him.

“I’m told Tottenham have spoken to Villa about whether he might be available.

“Unai Emery wants to keep him, he’s one of his better players so that’s a given really. Spurs feel they can get a deal done, but if they do it certainly won’t be cheap."

Throughout the vast majority of the summer transfer window, Tottenham Hotspur have focused the majority of their attention on new additions within the forward line.

Mohammed Kudus has been the biggest addition in such a department, costing a whopping £55m from Premier League rivals West Ham United back in July.

However, he looks set to be joined by Xavi Simons, after the Lilywhites agreed a €60m (£52m) transfer fee with RB Leipzig for the Dutchman’s signature.

The player has travelled to North London to undergo his medical with Thomas Frank’s men, looking set to complete his own transfer before Monday’s transfer deadline.

Despite the pending big-money addition, other areas are now being targeted for reinforcements, with the new boss evidently wanting further depth in the defensive third.

Spurs’ hunt for added defensive reinforcements

Over the last few hours, journalist Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Spurs have explored a deal to sign Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji before the window slams shut.

The Swiss international is said to be free to leave Pep Guardiola’s side before Monday night, leading to a £15m transfer fee being mooted for the 30-year-old’s signature.

However, attention is also being directed the way of Akanji’s teammate Nathan Ake, that’s according to GIVEMESPORT’s latest update on the Lilywhites’ transfer activity.

They claim that Frank’s side have held talks with the Citizens over a move for the 30-year-old, who’s spent the last five years under Guardiola’s guidance at the Etihad.

The report also states that the player himself held face-to-face talks with Spurs representatives last week, after the impressive 2-0 victory in Manchester last weekend.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be a better signing than Akanji

The rumours over potential deals to land new defensive reinforcements have certainly come out of the blue - leading to an exciting final few days of the window for the Spurs faithful.

Akanji has been a key member of the City squad over the last couple of seasons, registering 85 appearances in the top-flight - subsequently winning two titles in the last three years.

However, like the Lilywhites, the Citizens have undergone somewhat of an overhaul during the summer to help Guardiola mount a charge for top spot after missing out to Liverpool in 2024/25.

It appears as though Akanji could be sold, whether that be to Spurs or Galatasaray, but Frank’s men would be much better off pursuing a move for his teammate, Ake.

Given his previous spells at Chelsea and Watford, he’s a more established Premier League defender, offering needed versatility that can see him operate at the centre or left side of the backline.

When comparing the pair’s respective stats from the recent campaign, the Dutchman has managed to massively outperform Akanji, undoubtedly offering more of a presence should he move to North London.

Ake, who’s been labelled “incredible” by current boss Guardiola, completed more of the passes he attempted, offering Frank’s side an added ball-playing presence at the back.

Out of possession, the Dutchman has also dominated Akanji, winning more of the tackles he entered, whilst also making more blocks - handing the side the added defensive quality to help build on their impressive start in 2025/26.

He has also thrived in the air, winning more of the aerial battles he entered, an asset that could make him a threat at both ends of the pitch in North London.

It’s unclear how much a deal for Ake would set the Lilywhites hierarchy back this summer, but his experience in England’s top-flight could prove to be a valuable asset to Frank’s side.

It also remains to be seen if the player himself is keen on a move to join the Lilywhites, but any move before Monday’s deadline would be a superb signing and one that would hand the side added quality in the defensive department.

Tottenham Hotspur are looking to hijack another deal after completing a move for RB Leipzig playmaker Xavi Simons, with Spurs appearing determined to end what has been a very difficult transfer window on a high.

Ironically, a week after Eberechi Eze was stolen from under Daniel Levy's nose, Spurs have pulled off one of the standout transfer hijacks of the summer with Simons joining the north Londoners.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Thomas Frank's side reached an 'overnight' agreement with Leipzig and have signed the Dutch international in a deal worth £52 million.

The transfer is complete, and it is a major boost for Frank, who has been pushing for extra firepower and creativity in the final third. Having missed out on Eze and Morgan Gibbs-White in spectacular fashion, the arrival of Simons delivers the kind of quality and versatility their attack has been crying out for.

At just 22, Simons is regarded as one of Europe’s brightest young talents. He can operate as an attacking midfielder, out-wide and can even drift between the lines - offering Frank a range of tactical options that will give Spurs greater attacking freedom throughout the campaign.

Most importantly, it gives the Lilywhites an extra option with James Maddison injured, Dejan Kulusevski injured and Son Heung-min gone for the MLS.

The former PSG sensation, who was also a product of Barcelona's famed La Masia academy, has been impressing for Leipzig in the Bundesliga since 2023 and now has the chance to showcase his sky-high potential in the Premier League.

Simons bagged 11 goals and eight assists over 33 appearances last term, despite missing a chunk of the season with ankle ligament damage, which makes for promising reading as supporters yearn for another proven creator.

Tottenham make "surprise offer" for Man City defender Manuel Akanji

After completing a deal for the Netherlands international, one of Levy's next orders of business is signing a new defender.

Tottenham have been looking at centre-backs since Radu Dragusin is still out with an ACL problem, and Man City defender Manuel Akanji has emerged as a late option.

The Swiss ace has two years left on his contract and hasn't played a single minute for City so far this season, with Turkish champions Galatasaray already having a club-to-club agreement over signing Akanji from the Sky Blues.

That is according to The Mail and journalist Jack Gaughan, who report that Tottenham have made a "surprise" bid for Akanji, who is taking time to assess his options and wants Champions League football.

Spurs' approach means the 30-year-old will likely favour remaining in England as a result, with Galatasaray's move for the player now in danger of being hijacked.

Pep Guardiola, while not calling on Akanji this term, has lavished him with praise in the past.

After weeks of hunting for a new attacking midfielder, Thomas Frank looks finally about to land a new talent to his Tottenham Hotspur first-team squad.

Eberechi Eze and Morgan Gibbs-White were two players constantly on their radar, but ultimately, the Lilywhites missed out on the aforementioned duo for various reasons.

However, it may prove to be a blessing in disguise, after the hierarchy agreed a deal to land RB Leipzig talent Xavi Simons, despite the Dutchman previously agreeing terms with Chelsea.

It’s been reported that a €60m (£52m) deal has been agreed for the 22-year-old’s signature, with the youngster even completing his medical after travelling to North London yesterday.

Despite the agreement for Simons, it appears as though Frank and Co. aren’t done in this summer window, subsequently targeting other players before Monday’s transfer deadline.

Spurs’ hunt for new additions after Simons

Over the last couple of weeks, West Ham United star Lucas Paqueta has been strongly linked with a move to join Spurs - but no deal has yet been agreed for the Brazilian.

Talks have been held between the two clubs to try and reach an agreement, leading to the Hammers placing a £60m price tag on the 27-year-old’s head.

However, he’s not the only player who’s been on their radar during the summer window, with Leicester City star Bilal El Khannouss still in their sights, according to GIVEMESPORT.

They claim that Frank’s men could still make a move for the Moroccan, reporting that a late deal could be landed for the 21-year-old attacking midfielder on deadline day.

It also states that the manager and the staff behind the scenes are constantly monitoring his situation, with the youngster seen as a player who can add further quality to the current side - potentially being available for just £22m.

Why Spurs’ £22m transfer target is just like Paqueta

A deal for a star from West Ham may appear controversial, given the rivalry, but it wouldn’t be the first time this summer, after previously completing a deal for Mohammed Kudus.

The Ghanaian has already made an immediate impact in North London, registering two assists in his first two Premier League outings under new boss Frank.

Should they agree a deal for Paqueta, he would be the latest star from Graham Potter’s side to make the move, but it would be a huge investment given his £60m asking price.

The pending deal for Simons could potentially put such a move on the back burner, which could make El Khannouss a more cost-effective squad option for the 2025/26 campaign and beyond.

Whilst many supporters will raise their eyebrows at such a move, given the Foxes’ relegation last campaign, the Moroccan still managed to be labelled as a similar player to Paqueta by FBref.

When comparing his stats to those of the Brazilian from 2024/25, El Khannouss managed to outperform him in numerous key areas, potentially being a superb addition to the side this summer.

The Leicester star, who’s been labelled “exceptional” by analyst Ben Mattinson, registered more combined goals and assists, whilst also achieving a better shot on target rate in front of goal - a record that would hand the Lilywhites an added threat in the final third.

However, an attacking midfielder is mainly responsible for chance creation - something which the Moroccan demonstrated in abundance throughout 2024/25.

He bettered Paqueta for both key passes made per 90, whilst creating more shooting opportunities for his teammates, having all the tools to thrive behind the striker in North London.

El Khannouss’ talents with the ball at his feet are further reflected in his higher take-on success rate, subsequently taking the ball into the final third on more occasions in the Premier League last campaign.

There’s no denying that all the Spurs faithful are hugely focused on a deal to land Simons - and rightfully so given his mammoth transfer fee, which has seen him edge closer to completing his move.

However, El Khannouss would be an excellent backup to the Dutchman, with his potential late arrival handing Frank the added squad depth he’s been craving since taking the reins.