To The Lane And Back

Tottenham defender Cristian Romero is attracting interest from Real Madrid

In recent months, Atletico Madrid have shown a concrete interest in signing Tottenham Hotspur star Cristian Romero.

Spurs signed the Argentinean international from Atalanta in 2021, and the centre-back’s move to North London has largely been a success, as he played a significant role in winning the Europa League title in May. While the 27-year-old missed the majority chunks of the past campaign and has does lose his calm on occasions, he is undoubtedly the best defender in the Lilywhites’ squad.

Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone is keen to work with Cristian Romero, who has already expressed his desire to test himself in La Liga after the Premier League adventure. However, it looks like Simeone’s Atletico Madrid will not have a straightforward route to land the Tottenham star.

According to a report from Spanish outlet Fichajes, new Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso has added Romero to his three-man shortlist to bolster his defensive unit ahead of the new campaign. The other two names are Bayer Leverkusen’s Piero Hincapie and Ibrahima Konate of Liverpool.

After Real Madrid’s initial games at the Club World Cup, Xabi Alonso has made it clear that he does not count on Raul Asencio in defence and has immediately requested the board to sign a reliable central defence. The Spanish tactician may have been forced to take this decision after Asencio’s big mistake that led to his early sending off against Pachuca in the Club World Cup. A man short did not prove costly in the end as Los Blancos beat Pachuca 3-1 on Sunday.

The 22-year-old’s lack of positional awareness and concentration lapses have prompted Alonso to ask for a new central defender. The aforementioned report adds that Real Madrid see Romero as a ‘market opportunity’ due to his clear desire to leave Tottenham this summer.

Romero is willing to take the next big step in his career by leaving Spurs, with uncertainty surrounding his contract situation in North London. Due to the 2022 World Cup winner’s current deal entering its final two years, Tottenham risk losing one of their most valuable assets if they fail to secure his long-term commitment.

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Recent reports suggests Romero could make a stunning U-turn on his future and stay at White Hart Lane for another season following the appointment of Thomas Frank as the club’s new head coach. It would be fantastic if Frank can convince the Cordoba-born star of his project at the Hotspur Way and retain his services for another year, at least.

However, Madrid shortlisting the South American could prove problematic. Les Merengues, like Spurs, are ushering into a new era, and the tactically astute Alonso has already started putting pieces into his jigsaw. If his calls to sign Romero becomes concrete, it’d be difficult to stop him from leaving and fulfilling his desire to play in Spain.

With the North Londoners continuing to overhaul their roster as Thomas Frank takes charge of the proceedings at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, one of the most exciting names that the Lilywhites have even linked with since the arrival of Dane head coach is highly rated Ajax defender Jorrel Hato. A modern, left-footed centre-back who has already captained the Dutch giants and already embodies many of the principles that Thomas Frank looks for in his players. The teenager is flexible when it comes to his positional understanding while also having that technical comfort, especially when he is facing press, and then he has that system intelligence which makes him an ideal fit for Spurs under the former Brentford manager.

There is a need for defensive reinforcement at Tottenham, and while many players have been linked with a move to Hotspur Way, recently Ben Jacobs name-dropped Hato as a probable player that the North Londoners are looking to sign in the ongoing summer transfer window. That being said, it would not be easy for Daniel Levy to pursue his signatures given how Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal have already been putting in efforts to land his signatures for some time now.

And while we will leave the persuasion part of things to Daniel Levy and his team, let’s get into the attributes of Hato and how he will fit into the system that Thomas Frank is expected to implement at Tottenham.

How can Hato fit in tactically under Frank?

Hato can play as the left-sided centre-back in a 4-3-3 or 3-5-2, which makes him positionally perfect to deputise for Micky van de Ven if and when needed, particularly with how the former Wolfsburg centre back has suffered with injury problems in the past couple of seasons. Andy, given that Hato is someone who is highly press resistant and is someone who is cool when facing the press, makes him ideal to play when the North Londoners are building in the first phase. Moreover, given that he is quite composed and is smart with how he angles his body shape when receiving the ball, which could be key in trying to facilitate clean transitional situations straight with passes out of defence.

You can also play him as a wide centre-back in a back three where he plays in a 3-5-2 (a system that Frank had been using at Brentford) where the teenager can play in the left centre-back slot, tucking in during defensive transitions and pushing wide during buildup phases. And given that he is quick when it comes to his lateral movements, it would allow him to make sure that he can cover when the left-sided fullback steps up (Destiny Udogie) while still bringing a passing option in the buildup phases.

Moreover, given his technical elegance, you can play him in that left-back role every time Frank lines up in a back four, where the Dutchman will be playing in a more Zinchenko-esque manner as he tucks into the midfield in possession.

The thing is, Hato is one of the best progressive passers when it comes to defenders on the continent, given that he has that capacity to break pressing traps and unlock space with his diagonal switches. And we know that Frank likes to play with players who can control rhythm, and the fact that Hato has that ability to control the tempo is something that the Dane head coach would love to have in his roster.

Strengths

He is quite elite, especially with his composure when you compare it directly with his age, especially given that he rarely rushes passes when facing a press. Then Hato is also quite versatile, given how he can play as an LB, LCB in a four, or wide CB in a three.

Then his press resistance will help Tottenham to smoother passes out of first phases, especially when the opponents use high blocks. And then there is his high defensive IQ and positional discipline, which should come in handy in big games.

Weaknesses

I still think that he can be outmuscled by physical forwards, and he needs to learn a bit of duel dominance. He may take some time to adapt to the pace and power of the English top tier.

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Author Opinion

Jorrel Hato is precisely the type of player that the current project at N17 demands, given that he is young but intelligent and has that multi-position capacity about him. I do think that he has that ability to go on and be a really useful piece of the new defensive identity that Thomas Frank is trying to build at Hotspur Way. And while Hato will undoubtedly be a long-term prospect, but there’s no reason he can’t be someone who brings immediate impact as well.

Tottenham winger Heung-Min Son might head for pastures new in the coming weeks

Tottenham Hotspur legend Heung-Min Son has done wonders for the club ever since he arrived at N17 in 2015. The prolific winger instantly became a fan favourite in his first season as the Lilywhites looked to challenge for the Premier League title. The South Korea international’s formidable partnership with Harry Kane up top was also a sight for sore eyes.

However, the 32-year-old has been on a steady decline ever since Kane left for pastures new in 2023. Despite not being at his best for the North London club in recent seasons, Son managed to lead Spurs to their first ever major trophy in 17 years as the Lilywhites won the Europa League against all odds.

The historic achievement was seen as a crowning moment for the legendary winger, as he finally won his first silverware donning the Lilywhite jersey. After years of heartbreak and near misses, the Europa League success etched his name in the Tottenham’s history books. Heung-Min Son had lots of offers to leave the club in recent years, but his drive and willingness to lead Spurs to glory makes him a modern-day legend of the football club.

Tottenham star Heung-Min Son faces uncertain future at N17

There has been no surprise that many key players are linked with a move away from the club in the summer. One of those names is legendary forward Heung-Min Son. The South Korea international has given his all for the Lilywhites, and it seems like the timing is right to head for pastures new after the Europa League success. It was reported earlier that Saudi clubs are interested in signing the 32-year-old for next season.

Now, iconic commentator Ian Darke believes Tottenham will only receive a high offer for the South Korean if the Saudi clubs get involved in a summer deal. Speaking to the Tottenham News, Darke said,

“Only to Saudi Arabia, the thing with Son is there is an awful lot of marketing money to be made with him, for any club that gets him because of his profile in South Korea, which is something you wouldn’t believe actually.”

The iconic commentator added,

“He is such a major name, but you know, for purely on the pitch, he has probably gone through his best years. He has been a fantastic servant, but £100million, would be a very big investment unless he went somewhere where they thought they could make a mint on the marketing side with him.”

Ian Darke suggested that only Saudi clubs will offer huge money for Heung-Min Son, as the 32-year-old can generate a lot of money for the club through the marketing side. The commentator added that Son is a huge name in Asia and has been a fantastic servant for the Lilywhites. Darke also insisted that Spurs will only receive £100m for the South Korean if the potential buyer believes that they could recover the money by marketing the prolific winger.

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Turkish giants Galatasaray and Fenerbahce eye Tottenham Hotspur star Richarlison

Tottenham are once again in the spotlight. After a turbulent Premier League campaign, their Europa League triumph has secured a return to the Champions League, setting the stage for a pivotal summer. With key decisions looming, manager Thomas Frank is eager to shape a more defined and balanced squad, one with fewer uncertainties and clearer tactical solutions.

Planning is already underway, and all signs point to a significant overhaul in attack. One of the players expected to be on the chopping block is Richarlison. The Brazilian forward arrived with high expectations, but has so far failed to justify either his hefty price tag or his place in the starting eleven. That said, we’ve previously explored how Richarlison could potentially revive his career under Frank’s system.

Nonetheless, doubts continue to mount, and the rumour mill has kicked into high gear. The latest development comes from Turkey, where Galatasaray’s interest has added a fresh twist to the saga.

According to Turkish outlet Posta, Galatasaray are once again targeting Richarlison. The Istanbul giants previously attempted to bring him in on loan, but this time they are reportedly prepared to negotiate a permanent transfer, especially if their pursuit of Victor Osimhen falls through, which now appears increasingly likely.

Tottenham are open to offers for Richarlison but are under no immediate pressure to sell. Thomas Frank values the Brazilian’s work rate and pressing, yet concedes his goal return remains underwhelming. Interest is not limited to Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe have also made enquiries, albeit less formally. From the board’s perspective, a sizable fee for the 27-year-old could help finance a more clinical striker ahead of next season’s Champions League campaign.

The club must tread carefully. If Galatasaray table a compelling bid, a permanent sale makes more sense than another short-term loan, which would merely prolong an unproductive situation. Cashing in would free up wages and a squad slot for a forward better suited to Frank’s demands for end product.

Still, Richarlison’s relentless intensity isn’t easy to replace. He presses aggressively, unsettles defenders, and gives everything on the pitch. Yet without goals, patience quickly wears thin. Moving him on wouldn’t be a sporting catastrophe, provided the proceeds are reinvested wisely. If Tottenham can turn his sale into a more reliable source of goals, the squad will be stronger for it.

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As for Fenerbahce and Galatasaray, both are fighting hard for big-name talent. Fenerbahce have more internal stability, while Galatasaray has a better European track record. In that sense, Galatasaray seems a better option for Richarlison if he wants to relaunch his career.

Tottenham Hotspur star Bryan Gil is attracting attention from La Liga side Valencia

At the end of May, Girona officially announced the departure of several loan players, including Bryan Gil. The Andalusian winger, who spent the season on loan from Tottenham, appeared to be excluded from the club’s long-term plans, suggesting they would not exercise the €15 million purchase option available until 30 June.

However, there are indications this farewell might have been strategic. Some sources believe Girona are using it as a tactic to renegotiate the purchase fee. As things stand, the Catalan club is still weighing their options and may revisit the deal before the deadline.

Meanwhile, Valencia are closely monitoring the situation. According to OrgulloBiri, Girona have yet to make a definitive move, and Valencia are preparing to step in once the clause expires. The Mestalla side are no strangers to the 23-year-old, having previously had him on loan, and are keen to re-establish contact with Spurs for a potential transfer.

At Mestalla, Bryan Gil made a promising start, but his momentum gradually faded due to injuries and a lack of consistency. He returned to Tottenham without leaving much of a mark. Now, with a contract running until June 2026, the 24-year-old could be available for a reduced fee if Spurs decide it’s time to cash in.

Tottenham face a difficult but necessary decision: should they keep Gil as a backup option or facilitate his exit to avoid another season of uncertainty? Thomas Frank must assemble a competitive squad, and there is little room for players who remain on the fringes. Gil himself has expressed frustration about being denied a move in the past, and it’s clear that he’s no longer at ease in North London.

His recent appearances have reflected that unease, his body language subdued, his spark seemingly gone. Compared to the likes of Brennan Johnson, Gil lacks the explosive pace and physicality demanded by the Premier League. While his technical ability is not in question, the English game has never quite suited his style.

Financially, Spurs must also be pragmatic. With just 18 months left on his contract, Gil still holds resale value. Keeping him without a defined role will only accelerate his depreciation.

Valencia are keenly aware of this timeline. They won’t meet the €15 million clause, but by waiting, they may land him for significantly less. For Tottenham, it may be wiser to sell now and reinvest, rather than risk further devaluation.

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The decision also speaks for Thomas Frank’s new project. The Danish manager needs committed, fast and attacking players. Gil never quite fitted in and, although he is talented, he has not convinced at Spurs.

Tottenham Hotspur identify Yoane Wissa to replace Richarlison

Tottenham Hotspur have entered a pivotal stage of the summer transfer window. With a clear understanding of the need to revamp their attacking line, the club’s hierarchy is making strategic decisions that could shape the trajectory of their upcoming season.

Determined not to repeat past missteps, Spurs are planning calculated exits for players who have fallen short of expectations. While several names are under consideration as potential reinforcements, some current squad members appear to be heading for the exit.

One such case is Richarlison. The Brazilian forward, hampered by injuries and a lack of consistency, has struggled to cement his place in the team. Now, his future looks increasingly likely to lie away from North London.

According to teamTALK, Tottenham have given the green light for Richarlison’s departure. The Brazilian striker is attracting interest from top European clubs and is also being monitored by Saudi Arabian sides. Meanwhile, Turkish outlet Posta reports that Galatasaray are lining him up as a potential target, should their bid for Victor Osimhen fall through.

With Richarlison seemingly on his way out, Spurs are already eyeing his replacement. Brentford’s Yoane Wissa has emerged as a prime candidate. The 28-year-old forward is well-acquainted with new manager Thomas Frank, having played under him during his time with the Bees.

Boldness or madness? That’s the debate surrounding Tottenham’s decision to let Richarlison leave, particularly if he ends up at a club like Galatasaray. On the surface, parting ways with the former Everton man makes sense. Injuries and inconsistent performances have prevented him from justifying his price tag or securing a regular role.

However, putting all their chips on Wissa carries its own risks. While the Congolese forward performed admirably at Brentford, he’s not a prolific scorer and doesn’t come with guarantees. That said, his attributes align well with Frank’s tactical approach, he moves intelligently off the ball, attacks space effectively, and thrives in transition-heavy systems.

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Wissa’s prior relationship with Frank could also accelerate his adaptation at Spurs. But prising him away won’t be straightforward. With a contract at Brentford running until 2026 and the potential loss of Bryan Mbeumo to Manchester United, the Bees are unlikely to let Wissa leave without a fight.

William Gallas urges Bryan Mbeumo to pick Tottenham Hotspur over Manchester United

Tottenham Hotspur have been actively assessing their attacking options in recent weeks. With Champions League football secured for next season, the urgency to add goals, pace, and top-level experience has only grown. The club is targeting players who can make a decisive impact in big matches.

One of the standout names on their radar is Bryan Mbeumo. The Brentford forward, who scored 20 goals last season, has attracted serious interest from both Spurs and Manchester United. While negotiations have intensified, the Red Devils appear to have taken the lead with a more attractive offer. As a result, Spurs are now considering shifting their attention to alternative targets with a similar profile.

Amid this transfer race, former Spurs defender William Gallas has publicly urged Mbeumo to choose Tottenham over United. Speaking on the issue, Gallas argued that the 25-year-old would be a better fit at Tottenham, where he could establish himself as a star. Gallas also highlighted Mbeumo’s familiarity with London and the club’s environment as key factors that could help him thrive at Spurs.

He added that staying in London would facilitate his adaptation and stressed that the presence of a familiar manager and the competitive context of the London club represent an ideal opportunity for his growth. The remarks were reported in an interview with Prime Casino, which was relayed by Metro.

“I think Bryan Mbeumo should choose Spurs over Manchester United this summer. I think he’d be a great fit into that Spurs team because he could be the star. He has been at Brentford for so long and it’s time to step up. I think staying in London would help him progress, Spurs are also in the Champions League and with a manager he knows. I think it would work.”

At this stage, Tottenham must decide whether it’s worth making an extra push for Mbeumo or if it’s time to move on. William Gallas’s comments aren’t without merit, Mbeumo has demonstrated remarkable consistency at Brentford and possesses a natural understanding of the Premier League.

With his pace, eye for goal, and creative vision, he brings exactly the qualities Spurs need. His long-standing presence in London also makes him a low-risk, plug-and-play option who could deliver from day one. If Thomas Frank is seeking a player capable of making an immediate impact in the Champions League, Mbeumo certainly fits the bill.

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The sticking point is the price. If Manchester United continue to raise their offer, Tottenham risk being drawn into a financial battle that could strain their resources. Sometimes, the smartest move is to step back and redirect funds toward more attainable targets. Still, walking away from a player who understands the Premier League, fits the manager’s system, and scored 20 goals last season is no easy call.

Mbeumo offers more than just goals. He stretches defences, links up play, and knows precisely when to inject pace into an attack. He’s not merely a finisher, he’s a catalyst in the final third. If Spurs are serious about their Champions League ambitions, they owe it to themselves to make one last push. But if Brentford hold firm and negotiations stall, Tottenham must pivot quickly. The transfer window waits for no one.

Tottenham Hotspur have agreed a J-League record deal for Japanese sensation Kota Takai

Tottenham remain active in the transfer market, and this time, their focus has shifted to Asia in a bold move for emerging talent. Known for their aggressive pursuit of youth potential, the club is now turning heads with a calculated gamble on an under-the-radar prospect from Japan.

With Thomas Frank’s arrival marking a new era at N17, Spurs have been recalibrating the squad, aiming for both short-term competitiveness and long-term growth. In line with that vision, the club has struck a deal with Kawasaki Frontale for Kota Takai, a 20-year-old left-footed centre-back born in 2004. The transfer, reported by Sponichi Soccer and confirmed by Fabrizio Romano via X, is set to cost around £5 million, an eye-catching sum for a player moving directly from the J League.

Takai’s signing signals Tottenham’s intent to scout beyond Europe’s traditional hotspots, banking on potential rather than reputation. As the Premier League campaign demands a strong finish, Frank will be keen to gradually integrate such talents, laying the foundation for a more dynamic and globally diverse squad.

The 1.92m tall youth international already commanding a starting spot at Kawasaki Frontale, Takai’s £5 million move signals Spurs’ willingness to step outside conventional European markets in search of untapped potential.

In today’s inflated transfer environment, where proven talent often comes at a premium, this could be a forward-thinking coup, or a high-stakes gamble. The verdict remains to be seen. Yet several elements suggest Spurs may have found a gem. Takai’s maturity at 20, coupled with his composure, aerial prowess, and intelligent positioning, make him an intriguing prospect. While he may lack top-end pace, his ability to read danger and his comfort in possession align well with Frank’s tactical blueprint, one that demands courage and precision from centre-backs initiating play from deep.

The “Japanese Van Dijk” tag, however flattering, is also a heavy burden. But if Takai can manage expectations and adapt to the Premier League’s rhythm, this move could mark the start of a more global and calculated recruitment approach for Spurs. In an era where innovation in scouting can unlock immense value, Tottenham’s bet on Takai might just be ahead of the curve.

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Takai arrives quietly, but with a lot at stake. He has talent, physique, and head. The hard part will be adapting. Defending in the J League is not the same as in the Premier League.

Tottenham are exploring a move for Sunderland left-back Dennis Cirkin

Now that a new head coach in Thomas Frank is at the helm, Tottenham Hotspur can fully concentrate on rebuilding the squad. They will have to bring in quality players that fit into Thomas Frank’s style of play and principles.

Upgrading the starting XI will be the topmost priority, though, Spurs will need to add quality depth to their squad to be able to compete across multiple fronts. Having won the Europa League by beating Manchester United in the final in May, the Lilywhites subsequently qualified for the Champions League. Therefore, they must comply with UEFA’s rules in order to compete in the Champions League.

As per Football London, UEFA rules state that Tottenham must have four ‘club-trained players’ in their squad, someone who has been on a club’s books for three entire seasons or 36 months between the ages of 15 and 21. Currently, they have just one in the form of goalkeeper Brandon Austin.

In order to comply with UEFA’s rules, Spurs have been linked with a move for former full-back Kyle Walker-Peters, who is currently on the books of Southampton but will become a free agent at the end of June. Another player who could aid Tottenham’s homegrown quota is Sunderland left-back Dennis Cirkin.

Tottenham have been monitoring Dennis Cirkin ahead of a possible swoop. The left-back signed for Sunderland in 2021, having never made a senior appearance for Tottenham, and has gone on to establish himself a key player of the Wearside club. He was instrumental in Sunderland’s promotion to the Premier League this past season, registering three goals and two assists in 39 appearances and playing every minute of their thrilling playoff campaign.

With Spurs in desperate need of club-trained players, former scout Bryan King thinks the North Londoners will make a move for Cirkin this summer. He feels Sunderland would accept a bid of £20million for their star defender, but is unsure whether the deal is ideal for Tottenham.

In Pedro Porro and Djed Spence, Spurs have sufficient options at right-back. In contrast, Destiny Udogie is the only natural left-back in the squad following the club’s decision to release Sergio Reguilon. Thus, there is a need to add to the left-back department, and Cirkin would be a sensible buy.

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At 23, Cirkin’s best years are clearly ahead of him and he’d be a good option to provide back-up for Udogie. The Dublin-born talent would also fulfil the N17-based outfit’s most important requirement of club-trained players to participate in the Champions League next term.

As King says, if the Black Cats slap a £20m valuation on Cirkin, Spurs must not hesitate to pay it and bring him back to our club.

Tottenham Hotspur are going into a new era with Thomas Frank taking charge of the proceedings at Hotspur Way, and bringing the Dane to Hotspur Way isn’t just a managerial shift from Daniel Levy; this one is an identity shift, as the incoming head coach looks to take up a structural system which is based on compact and vertical possession and complements a 4-3-3 and 3-5-2 hybrid system that is quite based on the control of the central zones.

And for Tottenham to implement this, the chiefs at Hotspur Way need to give the incoming head coach a defensive midfielder that combines positional discipline with transitional intelligence, and this is where Lucien Agoume comes into the picture.

At the moment Arsenal are taking aggressive strides in landing his signature, while Manchester United are also monitoring his situation at M16, but this is exactly why I think that the duo of Daniel Levy and Johan Lange must move swiftly.

The Frenchman has been featuring in a #6 role where he plays as more of a deep-lying playmaker for Sevilla, and given his zone-pressing style complemented by his vertical passing capacity, he will not make Agoume a flashy midfielder but will definitely make him quite important to play in a system. He is someone that likes to control without pulling through much chaos, and his intelligence off the ball makes him ideal to play for the North Londoners, especially under Thomas Frank. He can use his ability to dictate tempo in the second phase whilst having this use of body shape to block access between opposition lines under the trained environment of the Dane head coach in a more efficient manner.

How can Agoume fit at Tottenham under Thomas Frank?

Playing as a #6 in a deep block of Thomas Frank’s system, he will be tasked with being the lynchpin in possession, especially when it comes to his distribution between the lines.

I think Frank can use Agoume in a mid-block orchestrating role where he is tasked to defend space vertically (and not just in a man-marking capacity). You can have him cover passing lanes into zone 14 and have him screen the back line when full-backs push high (which Porro and Udogie do quite like to do).

The North Londoners have been overrun in the central zones in the past seasons, and this could be quite a complement to how they played with high attacking intensity under Ange Postecoglou and how they lose their shape in the middle zones with all the midfielders not maintaining their zones and structure, but with Agoume you kind of fill this gap given how he understands his defensive role and how he is good at shadow pressing.

He has that first-phase release capacity under pressure, given how he likes to pick passes that do not involve a lot of risks. And then he is also quite good at turning his way out of opponent presses and releasing diagonals to wide players or vertical balls between lines.

You can also think about putting him in between the centre-backs during buildup phases (forming a temporary 3-2 base), which ends up freeing Bentancur and Maddison to play higher.

Then if we are thinking about his tactical flexibility, especially when you are slotting him in a 3-5-2 system, this is where he can play in a line pivot role, maybe with a couple of ball-carrying interiors around him where you can use his zone-first defensive instincts, making him ideal for the hybrid low-to-mid block shape which Frank likes to use to absorb presses and try to hit in transitions.

Strengths

He possesses that elite zone coverage, and you find the 23-year-old very rarely getting pulled out of it. Then he has that passing range which allows him to switch and play line-breaking balls, which is quite ideal for wide rotation-based systems.

He also has that ability to anticipate, so he ends up reading the second balls and can be used as a good press trigger. He also has that press resistance about him, but more in the pivot zones.

And then most importantly (especially when he wants to play in Thomas Frank’s structure), he is tactically really disciplined and doesn’t overcommit outside his zones.

Weaknesses

Now he is good at shadowing into challenges and interceptions, then being a high-volume tackler. And he has that limited ability in the final third, so you will not get any sense of goal threat from him, or you cannot use him in any playmaking capacity (especially in advanced areas).

Moreover, he needs cover runners around him, and you will get the best out of him when you play him alongside a more dynamic #8.

Why Tottenham must beat Arsenal to sign Agoume

Arsenal are already stacked with Rice and with Zubimendi coming in, but they still see Agoumé as a long-term holding midfielder. But then if Tottenham come into the picture, they offer something that the Gunners cannot: immediate minutes.

Under Thomas Frank, Agoume will get tactical ownership of the #6 role, and the North Londoners can also give opportunities for him to start regularly in the Champions League as well as the Premiership.

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Author Opinion

Agoume doesn’t look like a simple replacement player or a squad player; he is someone who can end up being the basis of the North Londoners stabilisation in the middle of the park, and especially if Levy and Lange are looking to make a structure-first identity under Frank, Agoume is the signing that will take the Lilywhites there. Tottenham missed out on Onana and Merino in the past; they can’t get it wrong this time.