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Tottenham 'can trigger Eberechi Eze release clause this week' as transfer talks begin

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Tottenham 'can trigger Eberechi Eze release clause this week' as transfer talks begin - Daily Express
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Tottenham can reportedly trigger Eberechi Eze’s release clause at Crystal Palace if they can tie up a deal by Friday. The Lilywhites are said to be chasing the winger’s services as they prepare for their first season under Thomas Frank.

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Eze, who has also been linked with a transfer to Arsenal this summer, has impressed since joining Palace from QPR in 2020 and bagged eight goals and eight assists in 34 Premier League games last season. He helped the Eagles win their first major trophy in May after netting the only goal in the FA Cup final as Palace overcame Manchester City. The 27-year-old has also won 12 caps for England and scored his first international goal during a 3-0 victory over Latvia in March.

According to talkSPORT, Eze’s £68million release clause expires on Friday and not two weeks before the start of the campaign as previously thought.

Tottenham want to take the player to north London and are currently in talks with Palace over a transfer for the Eagles talisman.

And Spurs’ interest in the winger has accelerated due to the fact they are set to be without James Maddison for a large part of the 2025/26 campaign after the former Leicester player ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament during a pre-season friendly with Newcastle in South Korea at the start of the month.

Eze is said to be keen on a move to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with Spurs willing to pay around £60m to secure his services.

Eze, who has another two years remaining on his contract at Selhurst Park, was named in the starting line-up as Palace went head-to-head with Liverpool in the Community Shield at Wembley on Sunday.

The attacker helped his side fight back twice during normal time to force the match into extra time.

And the London club went on to win the clash after it was decided on penalties, although Eze saw his effort in the shootout saved by Alisson.

Palace boss Oliver Glasner implored Eagles chiefs to keep Eze at the club earlier this summer as he stated: “As of now, I have 17 outfield players. I hope we don't lose any more.”

But ahead of the Community Shield, the Austrian refused to rule out Eze’s departure before moving the conversation on to centre-back Marc Guehi as he explained: “He will play on Sunday, definitely, and Marc as well - he will captain the team."

Glasner added: “Of course, everybody wants Marc to sign a new contract, everybody who is connected to Crystal Palace at least. Everybody wants to keep the squad together because they did so well last season.”

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Transfer news LIVE: Spurs make Savinho move, Guehi to Liverpool on, Chelsea boost

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Transfer news LIVE: Spurs make Savinho move, Guehi to Liverpool on, Chelsea boost - Daily Express
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Express Sport keeps you across all of the latest transfer news.

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Clubs across the Premier League have been spending big during the summer to prepare themselves for the upcoming campaign. But even though the opening day of the season is just days away, the heavy investment is expected to continue throughout the month of August.

Chelsea, Manchester United and reigning champions Liverpool are among the sides being tipped to spend before the September 1 deadline. Xavi Simons, Carlos Baleba and, of course, Alexander Isak are being touted with moves, as sides in England's top-flight look to put the finishing touches to their summer business.

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They have around three weeks to get the remainder of their deals completed, with it expected to be a hectic race to the finish line. Stick around for all of the latest transfer news and updates.

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Liverpool get approval to submit bid

Toulouse sporting director Viktor Bezhani has openly invited Liverpool to firm up their interest in young defender Charlie Cresswell.

Speaking to L'Equipe, he said: ""We are delighted by the amount of interest in our players.

"It shows that we are doing good things and that the rest of Europe is watching us.

"It isn’t a secret, if a good offer arrives, we’ll have a look at it."

Eddie Howe blames PSR for quiet Newcastle window

Eddie Howe believes Newcastle United's window has underwhelmed because of PSR restrictions.

Speaking over the weekend, he said: "We're controlled by PSR. That's still limiting what we can do and that's the reality.

"I've said many times, we're not the highest payers in the league. We're far from it and that is sometimes reflected in the choices players make.

"I don't think there's many players who have come here and haven't benefited from the experience Newcastle can give you."

Matt O’Riley targeted by Juventus

Matt O’Riley is reportedly under transfer interest from Juventus.

The playmaker was signed from Celtic last summer but could be on the move again.

Tuttosport suggest Juventus have opened talks with O'Riley about a potential move.

Man City eye Savinho replacement with Rodrygo and Simons mentioned

It's turning into the Manchester City show today.

Savinho, Jack Grealish and James McAtee are all being tipped to leave.

But the Premier League side are said to be exploring options surrounding a replacement.

Sacha Tavolieri reports City have entered the race for Xavi Simons.

Meanwhile, it's claimed by Matteo Moretto that Rodrygo could be an option for City to sign this summer.

James McAtee latest Man City star linked with exit

James McAtee is the latest Manchester City star to be tipped to leave.

The Englishman is reportedly on the verge of a transfer to Nottingham Forest.

Fabrizio Romano (again) is reporting a deal in the region of £20million is expected to go through.

Jack Grealish to Everton given green light

It's been a busy day at Manchester City, with Jack Grealish set to leave.

Fabrizio Romano is reporting that the Englishman is set for a season-long loan at Everton.

Tottenham see 'Savinho proposal rejected' by Man City

This one looks as if it's accelerating at a rate of knots.

Tottenham have reportedly already seen a proposal for Savinho knocked back by Manchester City.

Fabrizio Romano is reporting that an offer worth £43million was turned down by City.

The Blues are said to want way above £50m.

More Savinho to Spurs details as asking price mooted

Manchester City reportedly want to keep Savinho this summer, unless a too-good-to-turn-down offer is tabled.

It's reported by The Independent that City would be asking for way over £50million to let him go this summer.

Savinho is also yet to tell City he wants the move, but Spurs are believed to be keen.

Chelsea handed Xavi Simons boost

Chelsea have been handed a boost in their pursuit of Xavi Simons.

The Blues are keen to land the Dutchman this summer and could be aided by the fact RB Leipzig want Christopher Nkunku.

The out-of-favour attacker joined Chelsea from RB Leipzig two years ago.

It's reported Leipzig are keen to bring him back to Germany, with the possibility that Nkunku could be used as a makeweight.

Personal terms between Chelsea and Simons are already believed to have been agreed.

Marc Guehi transfer statement made as Liverpool eye defender

Steve Parish has explained that Marc Guehi will be sold this summer, unless a contract extension can be agreed.

Speaking after Crystal Palace's Community Shield win, he said: “Of course, for players of that calibre to leave on a free, it is a problem for a football club. There is no doubt about it, unfortunately.

"Joachim went and we couldn’t afford to lose both of them. We then had another bid in January but that was a difficult decision as well. We will just have to see what happens. It needs a new contract or a conclusion of some kind.”

Tottenham 'in talks' over Savinho transfer

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly 'in talks' to sign Manchester City's Savinho.

Originally reported by Fabrizio Romano, it's claimed the player would be open to joining Spurs.

It's now claimed by The Athletic that a package in the region of £43m is being discussed between the clubs.

City aren't actively looking to sell Savinho, but wouldn't stand in his way if a suitable offer was made.

Good morning and welcome!

We're just days away from the new Premier League season starting, but that isn't expected to stop clubs from spending big.

Teams across the division and the English pyramid are still scrambling to get deals over the line.

We'll be across all of the latest news and updates from the transfer window, so stick around throughout the day!

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Liverpool have approval to bid for target as club chief addresses interest

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Tottenham open talks to sign Man City star Thomas Frank thinks is ideal signing

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Tottenham open talks to sign Man City star Thomas Frank thinks is ideal signing - Daily Express
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Tottenham have opened talks with Manchester City over a deal for Savinho. Spurs are in the market for attacking reinforcements after missing out on several of their top targets in recent weeks, and their move for the winger is now advancing.

Thomas Frank was keen to reunite with Brentford duo Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa in north London this summer, but the former has joined Manchester United and the latter is appears to be Newcastle-bound.

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As a result, alternative options have been identified and Fabrizio Romano reports that Spurs have opened club to club talks with City to discuss a deal to sign Savinho. Negotiations between the two sides are now ongoing, with the winger open to joining Tottenham if an agreement can be reached.

Frank has made it clear to the higher powers at Spurs that he feels Savinho is the ‘ideal player’ for his side, and the 21-year-old’s openness to a new challenge means personal terms should not be a problem.

The Brazilian joined City last summer from sister club Girona in a deal worth £30.8million, and Pep Guardiola’s side will be keen to make a profit on the forward given his potential. A fee in the region of £43m is being discussed.

Savinho scored three goals and assisted 11 times in all competitions last season, and his tallies would have been markedly more impressive had he shown greater composure in the final third at times – though that was the story of the campaign for City generally.

A £43m fee is well within reach of Tottenham given that their £60m move for Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White collapsed last month.

Further reinforcements are expected to arrive at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium over the coming weeks, with another defensive signing not being ruled out as well as a midfielder. S

purs have already welcomed Mohammed Kudus to their ranks to provide an alternative option in the final third, with Joao Palhinha joining the club on a loan deal from Bayern Munich, which includes an option to buy.

It remains to be seen whether Savinho will be the latest star to commit their faith to Frank’s project, or whether City ultimately decide to put their faith in the tricky winger and fend off interest.

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Tottenham may have been screwed over by Newcastle as £22m star 'keen on move'

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Tottenham may have been screwed over by Newcastle as £22m star 'keen on move' - Daily Express
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Tottenham could be about to pay the price for Newcastle United signing Malick Thiaw. The German's imminent move to St. James' Park has left AC Milan with a gap to fill in their back line, and they are believed to be going after a player on the radar of Spurs transfer chiefs.

Thiaw is putting the finishing touches on his transfer to Tyneside, and the centre-back is due in England on Sunday night. Newcastle and the Rossoneri are believed to have found common ground over a deal worth in the region of £35million, with Eddie Howe finally getting a dose of good news in what has otherwise been a frustrating window.

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Thiaw was understood to be part of Milan boss Massimiliano Allegri's first-team plans, so San Siro chiefs are now set to wade into the market for a replacement. And the man they have identified is Genoa star Koni De Winter.

Tottenham have been linked with De Winter this summer. Spurs sporting director Johan Lange wants to give new manager Thomas Frank another option at centre-back after his predecessor, Ange Postecoglou, was left desperately short of bodies due to an injury crisis last season.

And De Winter is a player who has popped up on their radar. The 23-year-old represents Belgium at international level but he has spent his entire professional career in Italy with Juventus, Empoli and now Genoa.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Milan are on the verge of taking concrete action to try and sign De Winter. Senior figures at the club are said to have made contact with his camp, and an opening bid worth just over £17million is in the works.

That may not be enough to get the deal done straight away as Genoa want a total package worth around £22m including add-ons. But Tottenham could still be alarmed that Milan are pushing, and De Winter reportedly wants the move.

Mohammed Kudus is the only major signing Tottenham have made this summer, with the exception of loans being made permanent. The north Londoners are expected to splash out on a new attacking midfielder in the wake of James Maddison's ACL injury, which looks set to rule him out for most of the upcoming season.

"We are definitely in the market in general," said Frank. "Of course, when players get a long-term injury we need to look into that, but generally we are in the market, yes. Nobody feels close or far away. I'm not saying anything before there's anything that is completely 100 per cent. If we think we can find the right one, one who can improve the team, then he will be signed. If we can't, then not."

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Managing Tottenham as Eberechi Eze transfer hijacked and £25m star snapped up

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Managing Tottenham as Eberechi Eze transfer hijacked and £25m star snapped up - Daily Express
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Tottenham have been steadily going about their business this summer, but with less than a month of the window remaining they may now want to kick things up a notch. A serious-looking pre-season injury for James Maddison has shaken things up and it now seems likely that they will go after another attacking midfielder to compensate.

Thomas Frank and his recruitment team may also move for an experienced centre-back after the injury woes his predecessor, Ange Postecoglou, went through last season. With further incomings and outgoings likely, Express Sport takes you through how we would manage the Tottenham squad for the season ahead...

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Goalkeeper and defence

In Guglielmo Vicario and Antonin Kinsky, Frank already has two capable options between the sticks, and he is also well-stocked at full-back. There was rampant speculation surrounding Cristian Romero's future at the start of the window but it now looks like he will stay and continue his centre-back partnership with Micky van de Ven.

Spurs have signed young defender Kota Takai from Kawasaki Frontale and welcomed teenager Luka Vuskovic this summer, but they could do with another senior option, particularly given the amount of football Romero and Van de Ven missed last season, and the fact Radu Dragusin is still working his way back from a long-term injury.

Koni De Winter is a name that's been linked with Tottenham throughout the window. The Genoa star is only 23 but he's already a full Belgian international with two-and-a-half seasons of Serie A experience under his belt. Other clubs are also following De Winter, who is thought to be available for around £25million.

Midfield

The arrival of Joao Palhinha on loan from Bayern Munich with an option to buy has dramatically beefed up Frank's deep-lying midfield options. Yves Bissouma and Pape Sarr will also compete for minutes, along with Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray. Rodrigo Bentancur is also in the equation. The Uruguayan is into the last year of his contract but Frank has talked him up as a key player, which may serve as a call to action for the club's hierarchy to begin talks over an extension.

Options in the No.10 position will need to be tweaked following Maddison's injury. Dejan Kulusevski would step in under normal circumstances but he had knee surgery in May and will not be fit for this weekend's Premier League curtain-raiser as things stand.

New signing Mohammed Kudus can operate behind the striker, but a real statement of intent would be to try and hijack Arsenal's move for Eberechi Eze. Spurs have a long-standing interest in the Crystal Palace playmaker, and nipping in ahead of their local rivals would make a bombshell signing even more satisfying.

Attack

Dominic Solanke is set to start the season as Frank's first-choice striker after netting 16 times across all competitions last term. Mathys Tel will provide back-up while also being able to play out wide, and Kudus can also play up top.

Son Heung-min is heading to LAFC and leaving a gaping hole in the squad but Tottenham may feel they already have enough cover as Kudus, Tel, Kulusevski, Brennan Johnson and, if they sign him, Eze can all play on the flanks. Frank also appears to have taken a liking to Wilson Odobert during pre-season. The only thing that could jolt Spurs into life is the departure of Richarlison, who would likely fetch a decent sum in the market.

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Arsenal and Liverpool target Rodrygo makes huge transfer demand that rules out Tottenham

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Rodrygo is demanding a whopping £350k-a-week to make the switch from Real Madrid to the Premier League. Manchester City were quoted this figure when they expressed interest in the player, who is highly regarded by their manager, Pep Guardiola.

Arsenal, who have shown strong interest in Real's Brazilian winger, can expect a similar wage demand, as can Liverpool, another club linked with the player. This hefty wage demand will likely deter Tottenham, another interested party.

Real Madrid are also asking for a £76 million transfer fee for 24-year-old Rodrygo, who is on Bayern Munich's radar as well. Manchester City are hesitant to meet Rodrygo's wage demands, which are akin to what Kevin De Bruyne was earning before his move to Napoli this summer.

As a result, they've put their interest on hold while keeping an eye on the situation. It seems Rodrygo may need to lower his wage expectations if he wants to secure a move away from the Bernabeu.

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Tottenham may have to pay £60m for target despite £8m transfer clause

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Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly set their sights on Argentinian prodigy Nico Paz, but they may need to fork out a hefty £60million to secure his services. Paz joined Serie A side Como from Real Madrid last summer and quickly caught the eye under the guidance of manager Cesc Fabregas.

The 20-year-old attacking midfielder scored six goals and set up nine more in 35 league appearances, playing a key role in helping the newly promoted side secure a respectable 10th-place finish. Spurs were already in the market for a new playmaker even before James Maddison's unfortunate ACL injury, which will sideline him for the majority of the upcoming season. However, securing Paz's signature will likely require Spurs to pay significantly more than his current release clause.

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Como are reportedly holding out for a fee in the region of £60m for Paz. This would represent a staggering profit on the £5.2 million they paid for him just last summer.

Italian media had previously suggested that Como had rejected a £35m offer from Spurs. However, the Athletic has reported that the club deny making an offer, while Como do not want to sell their prize asset.

Another hurdle for Spurs is Real Madrid, who retained a buy-back clause in Paz's contract when he left for Italy. Xabi Alonso's team opted not to trigger their £6.9m (€8m) clause this summer, but the price will rise to £7.8m (€9m) next summer and further increase to £8.6m (€10m) in 2027.

Spurs' pursuit of Nico Paz could be further complicated by Real Madrid's reported 50 per cent sell-on clause and their right to match any offers for the former academy star, potentially thwarting Tottenham's summer transfer plans.

Tottenham manager Thomas Frank is eager to bolster his attacking options following Son Heung-min's departure to LAFC, James Maddison's injury woes, and Dejan Kulusevski's stint on the sidelines. Spurs have been scouring the market for a creative No.10, having missed out on Morgan Gibbs-White from Nottingham Forest.

Despite being early in his professional career, Paz has already earned high praise from Lionel Messi. On his international debut, Paz set up Messi for a goal in Argentina's 6-0 thrashing of Bolivia.

"Nico Paz has an incredible mindset, and that's why he's where he is," Messi said. "Nico has a lot of quality and understands the game perfectly. He has an incredible mindset, and he's with Cesc Fabregas as coach, who is my friend and will help him grow a lot."

Spurs are prioritising signing an attacking midfielder and another centre-back. The North London club have already secured Mohammed Kudus from West Ham and finalised a loan deal for Bayern Munich midfielder Joao Palhinha this summer. Additionally, former loanees Mathys Tel and Kevin Danso have joined Spurs permanently.

The team concluded their pre-season with a 4-0 defeat by Bayern Munich, which was not the ideal preparation for their UEFA Super Cup clash against PSG on Wednesday. Frank conceded that in light of Son's departure to LAFC, the club is open to the idea of recruiting a new forward.

"Sonny was a key player for 10 seasons. He has left the club. We have both good young players in Mathys [Tel] and Wilson [Odobert] and they are really promising and can perform," Frank said. "Brennan [Johnson] can also play that side. As I said, we are in the market. If we think we can find the right one, one who can improve the team, then he will be signed. If we can't, then not."

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Spurs could target £68m star and five others after James Maddison blow

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Tottenham could target £68m ace and five others after worst James Maddison fears confirmed - Daily Express
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Tottenham's worst fears have been realised - James Maddison is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines after suffering a devastating ACL injury that will keep him out for more than six months. The 28-year-old was stretchered off during Spurs' pre-season draw with Newcastle in South Korea last weekend after aggravating the same knee injury that kept him out of the Europa League final in May.

The timing couldn't be worse. With the start of the Premier League season fast approaching and a long-awaited return to Champions League football on the horizon - a stage Maddison was set to grace for the first time - the injury has left new manager Thomas Frank and the Spurs hierarchy scrambling for solutions. Maddison's absence doesn't just rob Tottenham of their creative heartbeat, but it also reshapes the club's entire attacking strategy. Now, with precious weeks remaining in the window, reinforcements are likely to be explored and very possibly pursued. Here, Express Football looks at the most plausible options to fill the void.

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Eberechi Eze

Eberechi Eze has been in Tottenham's crosshairs for some time, and Maddison's injury could finally push them to act. The Crystal Palace midfielder's flair, versatility and goal threat make him an ideal candidate to step into Maddison's role - especially after a standout season in which he registered 14 goals and 11 assists, including the winner in the FA Cup final.

Palace remain firm on Eze's £68million release clause, but Spurs may be willing to meet the price given the growing urgency. With Heung-min Son also departing for LAFC earlier this week, the attacking void in Frank's squad is significant - and Eze has the tools to help fill it.

His unique blend of physical power and technical finesse, coupled with proven Premier League experience, makes him a highly attractive target. But Tottenham may not have a clear path to his signature, with Arsenal also reportedly weighing up a move.

Jacob Ramsey

Jacob Ramsey's dynamic box-to-box energy offers Tottenhham a different flavour of attacking midfielder. The 24-year-old's work rate and ability to carry the ball forward could complement Spurs' setup, but his lack of goals - scoring just once in the Premier League last season - might raise concerns about his end product.

Aston Villa have reportedly slapped a £40m price tag on Ramsey, but with their financial situation under pressure, that figure could soften as the window progresses. Tottenham have been monitoring him for a while, drawn not just to his creative impact but also his defensive contributions and tactical versatility.

While he may not match Maddison's flair or final-third input, his youth, homegrown status and all-action style could make him a shrewd investment for a club looking to build for the future while addressing immediate needs.

Harvey Elliott

Harvey Elliott was once seen as the future of Liverpool's midfield, but his trajectory has stalled. After making just two Premier League starts under Arne Slot last season, his long-term prospects at Anfield look dead in the water.

While RB Leipzig have been linked with a move, Tottenham could seize the opportunity to offer Elliott a domestic lifeline - and a clear path to regular first-team football. At 22, Elliott still has significant room to develop, and his versatility, creativity, and European experience make him an enticing prospect.

Liverpool, however, are reluctant to let him go easily. They've reportedly set a £40m asking price with a buy-back clause, rising to £50m without one. Despite the fee, Spurs may view Elliott as a gamble worth taking. His technical ability, relentless work rate, and tactical flexibility - traits that earned him regular minutes under Jurgen Klopp - could make him a valuable addition both now and in the long term.

Jack Grealish

Jack Grealish's stint at Manchester City may have fallen short of expectations, but on his day, the 29-year-old still possesses match-winning quality. Currently in talks with Everton, Grealish could yet be tempted by a move to Tottenham - especially with Champions League football on offer. Spurs, long-time admirers of the England international, may now see an opening to finally get their man.

While critics argue his best days are behind him, Grealish still brings proven Premier League experience and creative flair in abundance. His dribbling, vision, and ability to dictate tempo - hallmarks of his Villa peak - could offer a different dimension to Spurs' attack. However, his high wages remain a potential stumbling block.

The reported £40m price tag may also seem steep for a player turning 30 next month, but a loan deal could present a more pragmatic solution, especially with Maddison's injury creating a short-term need. Grealish's knack for drawing fouls and slowing the pace could bring control during chaotic spells, complementing Frank's high-intensity setup. Still, after an underwhelming last couple of seasons at the Etihad, any move - whether long-term or short - would carry an element of risk.

James McAtee

James McAtee, 22, is one of Manchester City's most promising emerging talents, boasting the technical finesse and vision well-suited to a No. 10 role. Despite limited first-team opportunities at the Etihad, his quality is evident, and a permanent move could be on the cards if a club is willing to meet City's valuation, reportedly around £40m.

With Cole Palmer's breakthrough at Chelsea setting the precedent, Tottenham could present McAtee with a fast-tracked path to regular Premier League football. His ability to link play, thread passes, and unlock defences echoes aspects of Maddison's game, though he still lacks top-flight experience. That said, his loan spell at Sheffield United offered encouraging signs, showcasing his sharp passing, intelligent movement, and ability to control games.

For Spurs, McAtee represents an intriguing prospect: a high-upside, long-term investment with the potential to flourish under the right guidance. However, given their need for an immediate impact signing, the club may be inclined to prioritise more experienced, ready-made options.

Carney Chukwuemeka

Once seen as one of England's brightest midfield prospects, Carney Chukwuemeka has slipped under the radar at Chelsea. But at 21, his raw talent - marked by sharp dribbling, creative vision, and physical presence - remains undeniable. Injuries and limited minutes at Stamford Bridge make a £30m exit plausible, though Dortmund - who took him on loan last season - are also circling.

While his lack of top-flight experience presents a risk, Chukwuemeka's versatility and technical skillset may ease those concerns. He showed flashes of brilliance at Chelsea under former Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino, with explosive bursts and an ability to beat defenders that could bring a fresh, unpredictable edge to Tottenham's midfield.

Of all the candidates, Chukwuemeka comes with the most question marks but maintains a high ceiling. If Spurs can tap into his potential, he could prove to be a transformative signing rather than just a gamble.

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James Maddison ruled out for the season after horror injury in Tottenham friendly

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James Maddison ruled out for the season after horror injury in Tottenham friendly - Daily Express
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Tottenham Hotspur have confirmed that James Maddison will miss most of the 2025/26 season after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury in pre-season. The Spurs midfielder has been struck with the devastating news after tumbling to the ground in agony during Sunday's 1-1 draw against Newcastle United.

Maddison missed the end of last season, including Spurs' Europa League final triumph over Manchester United, with a knee injury. After appearing as a second-half substitute against Newcastle in Seoul, South Korea, the 28-year-old overextended the same knee and immediately signalled a problem.

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Maddison looked severely distressed before exiting the pitch on a stretcher. He was later spotted leaving the stadium on crutches, and Thomas Frank admitted it looked like a "bad injury".

The Spurs head coach said: "Sometimes in life and football things can be both beautiful and brutal. That's what we got today.

"It looks like with Madders a bad injury and then on the other side unbelievable scenes for Son from his team-mates and the respect from the Newcastle players [who gave Son a guard of honour].

"We're pretty sure it was the same knee he [Maddison] injured before."

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Maddison is set to undergo surgery that will keep him sidelined for the majority of the new campaign.

A Spurs statement read: "We can confirm that James Maddison will undergo surgery for a ruptured Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) in his right knee.

"The 28-year-old midfielder suffered the injury during our pre-season friendly against Newcastle United on Sunday in Seoul.

"His surgery will take place in the coming days and, following that, James will then begin his rehabilitation with our medical team.

"Everyone at Tottenham Hotspur wishes James a full and speedy recovery. We will be supporting him every step of the way."

It's a heartbreaking development ahead of a major season of transition at Spurs under Frank, who will likely be on the hunt to replace such a key player.

Players will also be looking ahead to next summer when the 2026 World Cup takes place in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Maddison's long-term injury layoff makes his inclusion in Thomas Tuchel's England squad now highly unlikely.

The former Leicester City playmaker had undergone a series of tests since returning from Asia on Monday.

Tottenham figures shared initial fears that Maddison had suffered cruciate ligament damage, and those worries have since come to fruition.

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Alan Shearer puts Chelsea above Man Utd and Tottenham in Premier League predictions

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Alan Shearer puts Chelsea above Man Utd and Tottenham in Premier League predictions - Daily Express
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Alan Shearer has given his predictions for the upcoming Premier League season, suggesting that the status quo could remain at both ends of the table. Last season didn't offer much of a title race due to Liverpool's dominance and consistency from the get-go.

They have splashed out significant sums, including the British-record signing Florian Wirtz, in an attempt to secure back-to-back titles. Alexander Isak might still make a move to Anfield, and Shearer can't see past the Reds as champions.

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Leeds, Burnley and Sunderland have returned to the top flight. They'll be keen to break the worrying recent trend of promoted teams being relegated straight back to the Championship.

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However, Shearer has predicted that all three will only enjoy one year in the Premier League before returning to the second tier. This would mark the third consecutive year that the three promoted teams fail to survive, further emphasising the gap between the top flight and the Championship.

Arsenal are tipped to finish second for the fourth consecutive year - a prediction that won't please Mikel Arteta. He has invested heavily, bringing in Viktor Gyokeres as his No.9, but may still fall short of the prize he is so eager to win, with pressure mounting.

Manchester City had a quiet season last term and are starting a year without Kevin De Bruyne for the first time in a decade. Despite bolstering their squad, Shearer hasn't backed Pep Guardiola and his team to reclaim their crown, instead placing them in third.

Manchester United, who hit a new low last season, have bolstered their attacking line-up as Ruben Amorim seeks to turn their fortunes around. However, the pundit predicts an improved but not Champions League-worthy performance.

He believes that Chelsea and Newcastle - two clubs with contrasting summer experiences - will both finish above the Red Devils. Newcastle's fate may depend on whether Isak stays or if they can secure a top-tier replacement.

Chelsea, on the other hand, have had no trouble attracting attacking talent. Nottingham Forest, last year's dark horse, will now have to juggle domestic duties with Europa League commitments.

This is uncharted territory for them, but Shearer still backs them to finish in the top half of the table. Tottenham, having sacked Ange Postecoglou despite his European success, are entering a new era.

Thomas Frank faces a daunting task, but Shearer predicts an eighth-place finish for Spurs, just behind Aston Villa. The Midlands club has reaped the benefits of Unai Emery's leadership, but intense competition at the top could see them slip again.

Brentford, now under Keith Andrews' management, are tipped to narrowly escape relegation, finishing 17th. West Ham, despite Graham Potter's first full season at the helm, are also expected to face a challenging year.

For teams like Everton and Crystal Palace, another year of secure mid-table football is on the cards. The Eagles will be participating in European football, although not in their preferred competition.

Fulham, Wolves and Bournemouth are expected to remain relatively safe. Brighton, sitting at tenth, might have aspired for more under Fabian Hurzeler.

Shearer's forecasted Premier League table

*Predictions from Betfair.

Source