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Mikel Arteta and Arsenal are sitting pretty ahead of the 2025/26 run-in. Top of the Premier League table and through to the last-16 of the Champions League as league phase winners, Arsenal are still fighting strong in both domestic cups too.

If Arsenal play their cards right, they should deliver at least one piece of silverware between now and the end of the season, with the Gunners faithful beginning to get giddy about what could prove to be a historic season. But there’s still a long way to go, and as the pressure begins to ramp up, Express Sport have picked out three things Arteta ought to do if Arsenal are to end the campaign successful.

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Eberechi Eze solution found for Arsenal

Arsenal need to be braver if they want to finish the season with at least one of the Premier League or Champions League, and to do so, they have to utilise Eberechi Eze more. The playmaker has impressed on occasion, most notably his hat-trick in the north London derby, but has been used sparingly since the festive period. Eze is just the sort of player Arsenal need to be getting on the ball in central areas, which would require a midfield shuffle, but in the long run could be worth it.

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Take the handbrake off and be brave

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The defeat to Manchester United was the latest example of Arsenal playing within themselves this season. A timid and tame set of players, who looked more scared to make a mistake than take the game to a relatively mediocre United side. Arsenal are currently the best team in Europe, it’s high time they started acting like it. Stop relying on corners and own goals, and actually step onto the pitch looking to win football matches with conviction. They’re more than good enough!

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Viktor Gyokeres axed from starting XI

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Having a player capable of putting the ball in the back of the net would help. It hasn’t been a bad season for Viktor Gyokeres, but it certainly hasn’t been a good one either. And now, with Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz back fit and firing, Gyokeres could be finding minutes even harder to come by. It could prove for the better, given Arsenal look a better outfit when it is one of Jesus or Havertz up top.

Clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur have now just a matter of days to complete late transfer business in the January window as the race to add to squads is now well and truly on.

The window slams shut at 7pm on Monday, 2nd February with the scramble for signings starting over the weekend. Spurs have already been busy in the window in terms of both incomings and outgoings.

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The club have completed the signings of midfielder Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid and full-back Souza from Santos. One of the priorities for Spurs in the final days will be to try and add attacking reinforcements.

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For Thomas Frank, concentration will be on the weekend’s Premier League clash against Manchester City at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Spurs host PEp Guardiola’s side in the 4.30pm kick-off on Sunday.

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But, even while the action is ongoing, there is likely to be work going on behind the scenes on potential deals. With that in mind, here is a look at some of the latest talk from in and around the club.

Striker transfer confirmed

Spurs have confirmed that young striker Dane Scarlett has joined Scottish side Hibernian on loan until the end of the season. The move comes just days after the 21-year-old came off the bench as a late substitute in the 2-0 Champions League win over Eintracht Frankfurt.

He has, however, found regular game time hard to come by this season, with him making just five first team appearances in all competitions.

The deal could potentially hint at more attacking reinforcements coming in at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the final days of the transfer window.

Commenting on the arrival, Hibs head coach, David Gray said: "Dane is a player with real talent, fantastic attributes and he will provide a genuine goal threat in the forward areas of the pitch with his pace, athleticism and technique.

"We are delighted to bring Dane into the building and we are all looking forward to working with him over the next six months."

The laon deal is Scarlett’s third temporary move away from Spurs since 2022, with previous spells at Portsmouth, Ipswich Town and Oxford United.

Real Madrid ‘contact’

Spurs are one club to be been contacted over a possible move for Real Madrid winger Brahim Diaz in the final days of the transfer window, according to TEAMtalk.

Diaz impressed with his performances for Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations over the festive period, but has found himself on the fringes since his return to Madrid from the competition. His representatives are therefore said to be reaching out to clubs over a possible January move.

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Spurs, along with Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Serie A Como are all said to have been ‘contacted’ by Diaz’s camp. It is added that ‘nothing is impossible’ should the right opportunity emerge for the player between now and Monday’s deadline.

Tottenham have received a substantial financial boost just days before the January transfer window closes. The north London club secured an eight-figure windfall on Wednesday evening after confirming automatic qualification to the Champions League last 16.

Dominic Solanke's strike propelled Thomas Frank's side to victory over Eintracht Frankfurt at the Deutsche Bank Park, earning three vital points in the battle for a top-eight finish. Spurs ultimately claimed fourth spot, bypassing the knockout phase play-offs and significantly boosting their coffers.

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As with every Champions League participant, UEFA awarded Spurs £16.18m simply for taking part. Tottenham accumulated an additional £10.31m through performance-related bonuses, having secured five wins (£1.82m each) and two draws (£607k each) from their eight matches.

UEFA also provides £239,000 for each final league position, meaning they collected a further £7.89m. Additionally, clubs finishing in the top eight and progressing straight to the last 16 receive extra compensation, earning Spurs £9.56m for their achievement.

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In total, Frank has generated £43.94m in prize money for the club. The Danish manager has already brought in several new signings to Hotspur Way this month, acquiring Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid and Souza from Santos, making this financial injection particularly timely.

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Despite already splashing nearly £50m, Frank has disclosed that he's still on the hunt to strengthen his squad before next week's deadline. He shared: "We are 100 per cent in the market.

"I think that when let's say results are not top and you get injuries, that's where you can feel you are being pressured to take decisions that you maybe don't want to take for the future.

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"But we need to make good assessments, good analysis, where we are making good decisions that can help us get short-term success, optimise that, but also be very good for the long-term."

At the end of December, Frank pledged that Tottenham will only sign 'fully committed' players. The 52-year-old said: "Key, in every aspect. Any player we sign needs to be fully committed on the project. No doubt about that. Very important.

"Character for me, as I've said many times, is the most important thing. They need to buy into it so we are aligned. It makes it easier for me to say, 'Hey remember the bit I said about this...', then it's a little bit easier to have consequences."

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The January transfer window will close at 7pm on Monday, February 2.

Tottenham Hotspur forward Mathys Tel is looking to leave and will only stay if Spurs head coach Thomas Frank is sacked, it is claimed. The 20-year-old completed a £30million move from Bayern Munich last summer after an initial loan spell, but has found chances limited under Frank.

Despite a promising six-month spell under former head coach Ange Postecoglou, Tel has struggled for starts under the Australian's successor, scoring three times. The young forward was initially omitted from Tottenham's Champions League squad in September, though he was subsequently reinstated in December after Dominic Solanke's injury problems.

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The attacker is now said to be considering a move away as he looks for regular game time before France's World Cup campaign. Tel has not yet received a senior call-up for Les Bleus, though he possesses an excellent record at U21 level with 12 goals in 20 appearances.

And Sky Sports Germany claim that he is set to depart the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium unless Frank his relived of his duties before Monday's transfer deadline. It is claimed that Tel feels unfairly treated by the Dane.

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The report adds that a return to the Bundesliga is not currently on the cards. However, Ligue 1 side Paris FC are reportedly interested in a deal.

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Spurs have enjoyed a positive season in Europe, having qualified for the last 16 of the Champions League. However, domestic results have put Frank under huge pressure.

Spurs currently sit 14th in the Premier League table and are out of both domestic cup competitions. Pressure is likely to ramp up on the Dane with tough fixtures to come.

Tottenham face Manchester City, Manchester United, Newcastle and Arsenal over their next four matches. Frank told Tottenham fans last weekend that he was “working very, very hard” to turn the club’s fortunes around.

He said: “First and foremost, I want to thank them for travelling and supporting the team throughout the the game, which they do.

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"I’m sure they can recognise and acknowledge, especially the first half, the improvement there. We could and should have been out of sight.

“But also they acknowledge the willpower and character of the team that keep running, keep fighting to the end. We just need to keep going. We do so many things right, but there’s no doubt, it’s not dropping so easy for us.”

Tottenham Hotspur have had a productive transfer window already this month, with the possibility of further signings before Monday's 7pm deadline. Spurs landed Conor Gallagher in a £34million deal from Atletico Madrid, before then strengthening their defence with Santos sensation Souza for an additional £13million.

Yet it seems Thomas Frank is now seeking attacking reinforcements in the final stages of the window - with several prolific forwards being discussed. With only days remaining in the current window, Express Sport looks at some of the latest transfer developments, speculation and chatter surrounding Tottenham;

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Fierce rivalry for Saudi sensation

Representatives are believed to have approached multiple Premier League sides regarding a possible return to England's top division for Moussa Diaby. The Al-Ittihad winger has flourished in the Saudi Pro League this campaign, notching two goals and five assists across 16 outings so far.

Nevertheless, the 26-year-old - who spent a season at Aston Villa before his switch to the Gulf State back in 2024 - has recently been touted for a comeback to English football. Reports suggest that Tottenham, Villa, Crystal Palace, West Ham and Sunderland were all approached by his agents.

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Meanwhile, Inter Milan has also emerged as a possible destination for Diaby this month, with earlier reports suggesting a loan deal with an obligatory buy clause had been considered. However, any potential move for Diaby could prove complicated.

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According to TEAMtalk, such a transfer might be unfeasible due to tax consequences related to a mid-season return to the UK. Footballers can face substantial tax penalties when returning from Saudi Arabia within two years of their initial arrival.

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Having progressed through the Paris Saint-Germain academy system, and enjoying a successful period at Bayer Leverkusen, potential suitors have good reason to be enthusiastic about bringing Diaby to their club this month.

Jean-Philippe Mateta latest

Tottenham have surfaced as a possible destination for Jean-Philippe Mateta this month, as the striker seeks a departure from Selhurst Park. The 28-year-old striker has been connected with numerous clubs during the current transfer window, including Manchester United, Chelsea, Nottingham Forest, Everton, West Ham, Newcastle United and Juventus.

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With Crystal Palace reaching an agreement in principle with Wolves for Jorgen Strand Larsen this week, it could in turn pave the way for Mateta's departure. The France international has netted eight times in 23 appearances this campaign, earning praise particularly for his physicality and prowess in the air.

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With Spurs currently lacking a reliable goal-scorer up front, Mateta could prove to be an ideal solution as they aim to reverse their fortunes in the Premier League and progress further in their Champions League campaign. However, a transfer may not come cheaply, given that Crystal Palace are expected to demand somewhere between £35m and £40m to sell the striker, whose contract runs until next summer.

Welcome to Friday's Express Sport transfer blog, where we will be with you for all the latest updates in the final few days of the January transfer window.

With just a couple of days left before the January transfer window closes, it seems there are still several significant deals that could be finalised before the deadline.

Manchester United have been linked with a surprise move for Chelsea star Cole Palmer. However, Blues head coach Liam Rosenior has dismissed reports that the England international is unhappy at Stamford Bridge.

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Meanwhile, Arsenal have been given a strict deadline over Oleksandr Zinchenko's potential move to Ajax. The Ukrainian is set to be recalled early from his loan at Forest with a view to joining a new club.

Express Sport takes you through all of the rumours, stories and announcements in the January transfer window this evening, while also providing updates from any tales from overnight.

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Palmer latest

Despite reports stating that Cole Palmer is unhappy in London and would be keen on a move to Manchester United, it now appears as though a move will not be happening – either now or in the summer.

The focus for United is instead on bringing in a world-class defensive midfielder to replace the outgoing Casemiro. Adam Wharton, Elliot Anderson and Carlos Baleba have all been linked.

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Good morning

Hello and welcome to Friday's live coverage of the latest transfer news with just days left of the January window.

No major deals are expected, but clubs can still do business before 7pm GMT on Monday.

Stick with us throughout the day for all the latest.

Liverpool strike deal with Reading

Reading have completed the signing of 18-year-old Scofield Lonmeni from Liverpool. The midfielder featured for the under-18s last season as a deep-lying midfielder and has signed his first professional contract with Reading, joining on a permanent basis for an undisclosed fee.

Sunderland star set for Championship return

Sunderland's Aji Alese has joined Portsmouth on loan for the remainder of the season. The 25-year-old has failed to make a single appearance for the Black Cats in the Premier League this season as a result of stiff competition coupled with a shoulder injury.

Sunderland wrote on Instagram: "Aji Alese has joined Portsmouth on loan for the remainder of the 2025-26 season. Wishing you all the best, Aji."

Spurs consider move for Serge Gnabry

The 30-year-old winger is out of contract with Bayern Munich this summer, with Spurs showing an interest in securing him on the cheap ahead of deadline day.

With five goals and an assist from six appearances in the Bundesliga this term, Gnabry could provide another string to Tottenham's attacking bow for the second-half of the season.

West Ham see stance on Atalanta midfielder

West Ham United have reportedly been told that Nicola Zalewski will not be leaving Atalanta unless the club see a significant offer. The 24-year-old midfielder has seen interest from the Hammers among others as of late, but Atalanta are in no rush to sell considering he is contracted until 2029, with the club holding an option to extend his deal by a further two years.

Nottingham Forest linked with second swoop for Brighton talent

Nottingham Forest are reportedly considering a second swoop for Brighton's Yasin Ayari after seeing a £20m offer rejected. The 22-year-old midfielder is thought to be a key player for the Seagulls, making 23 appearances across all competitions this season.

Under contract until 2027, Brighton are in no rush to sell the Swedish-Tunisian star just yet.

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Fulham talks for striker break down

Talks between Fulham and PSV Eindhoven over Ricardo Pepi appear to have collapse, as per the Standard. It is claimed that the Cottagers submitted a bid for the 23-year-old forward, but there is now no correspondence between the clubs.

Manchester United linked with another midfielder

Fabrizio Romano reports that Manchester United and Spurs have scouted Club Brugge star, Aleksandar Stankovic. However, the journalist also claims that Inter Milan control the 20-year-old midfielder's future, given they hold a buyback clause from his move to the Jupiler Pro League just six months ago.

Marseille offer Newcastle midfield talent

Reports suggest that intermediaries have approached Newcastle United with regards to the availability of Angel Gomes. However, Everton, Brighton, Fulham, West Ham and Sunderland have also been in contact.

Wolves are thought to currently lead the race for the 25-year-old midfielder, and are thought to be exploring the possibility of a loan deal which includes an obligation to buy.

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Leeds United prepare to open contract talks

Ethan Ampadu is reportedly set to hold talks over a fresh contract with Leeds United. The 25-year-old captain's current deal runs through to 2027, but it is said that the Peacocks are looking to offer him improved terms as a reflection of his form with the club since their return to the Premier League.

Ampadu is thought to be a key part of Daniel Farke's plans going forward, and it is suggested that they may significantly increase his wages at the club.

Chelsea could use youngster to sign Jeremy Jacquet

Reports suggest that Chelsea could use Aaron Anselmino as part of a deal to secure Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes. The 20-year-old centre-half has been linked with a move to Stamford Bridge for the majority of the month.

Now, it has emerged that Anselmino - also 20 and who was recently recalled from a loan spell with Borussia Dortmund - could be used in part of an exchange for Jacquet.

Fabrizio Romano, meanwhile, claims that Jacquet is now viewed as a summer target for Chelsea.

Arsenal targeting in-demand Real Madrid wonderkid

Arsenal have teenage Real Madrid defender Victor Valdepenas on their radar, according to the Daily Mail.

The Gunners have reportedly been tracking the 19-year-old for a while, including before his senior debut last month. Several other European clubs are said to be interested in the former Spain under-19 international, who can play centrally as well as at left-back.

Man Utd face double transfer blow as two deals close

Manchester United are set to miss out on Kader Meite and Ruben Neves, according to Fabrizio Romano, despite being linked with both players this winter.

Al-Hilal are reportedly in the final stages of negotiations with Neves over a new long-term contract. The same Saudi Pro League side are also said to have a £26million agreement in place with Rennes for Meite.

Leeds latest on Jorgen Strand Larsen

Leeds United are currently unwilling to increase their offer for Jorgen Strand Larsen above £40million, according to Sky Sports News.

That is despite Crystal Palace reportedly being close to agreeing a £50million deal with Wolverhampton Wanderers. Leeds are said to see Strand Larsen as a 'unique market opportunity' and would not seek an alternative if they miss out on him to the Eagles.

Aston Villa and Crystal Palace agree deal for £26m forward

Aston Villa and Crystal Palace have an agreement in principle for Evann Guessand to join the Eagles on loan with an option to buy, according to the French outlet Foot Mercato.

Villa signed Guessand from Nice for £26million just six months ago, but he has scored only twice since the switch. Palace wanted the player last summer and revived their interest this month.

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Raheem Sterling future

Raheem Sterling is a free agent after leaving Chelsea with 18 months still remaining on his original five-year deal. With that in mind, TEAMtalk are reporting that Leeds United are linked with a possible switch for the 31-year-old, while other clubs circle a possible deal.

Crystal Palace talks

Crystal Palace have opened talks with Aston Villa over a move for Evann Guessand on loan, according to The Athletic. The forward, who joined Villa in the summer, could leave before the end of the window, and Palace are claimed to be favourites, though several other teams are keeping tabs on a move.

Arsenal scouting mission

Arsenal have scouted Corinthians youngster Iago Machado this month, ahead of a potential move. That's according to The Sun, which claims that the Gunners have been tracking the 16-year-old defender, who cannot move until he turns 18.

The club have already signed three teenagers from abroad ahead of a move in 2027, with Machado holding potential to be the fourth.

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Man United step up left-back chase

Manchester United are stepping up their search for a left-back. According to TEAMtalk, the club sent scouts out to watch Eintracht Frankfurt star Nathaniel Brown feature against Tottenham in the Champions League.

The report states that £40m is the rough valuation on the defender, if United want to make a move.

Moussa Diaby move

Aston Villa, Tottenham, Crystal Palace, West Ham and Sunderland were among the Premier League sides contacted by intermediaries to discuss a move for Moussa Diaby, according to TEAMtalk.

While all five clubs were possible destinations, it seems as though the former Villa man is set to make a move to Inter Milan instead, making his return to Europe.

Liam Rosenior on Cole Palmer's future

Cole Palmer has been linked with an exit from Chelsea, as Manchester United emerged as a potential option to sign him. However, Liam Rosenior has once again stated that the playmaker won't be leaving Stamford Bridge.

Speaking last night, after his side's win over Napoli in the Champions League, the Chelsea boss said: "There’s been a lot of talk about Cole Palmer lately… I can guarantee he was a very very happy man in the changing room at full time."

Strand Larsen agreement close

Crystal Palace are close to reaching an agreement to sign Jorgen Strand Larsen from Wolves, according to The Athletic. An offer worth £45m, with £5m in add-ons, is mentioned as being discussed.

Leeds are claimed to have made a bid for the striker, but could only reach £40m.

Arsenal exit

Arsenal have agreed a fee with Grimsby Town over the sale of defender Maldini Kacurri, according to The Mirror. The 20-year-old academy star has spent the past few months on loan, but is in talks surrounding personal terms for his exit.

Jorgen Strand Larsen latest

Crystal Palace have improved their offer to Wolves for striker Jorgen Strand Larsen. That's according to Fabrizio Romano, who claims that talks are also underway with the player's camp over a switch.

The Norwegian striker has been linked with the Eagles, among with a whole host of clubs for this transfer window. That could free up a move for Jean-Philippe Mateta in the final days of the market.

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Andre Onana exit talks

Andre Onana is facing a possible permanent exit from Manchester United this summer, after his loan deal at Trabzonspor ends.

The Daily Mail reports that Inter Milan are interested in a return for the shot-stopper, with talks being held between agents, while links have persisted over a switch to other potential options.

Ajax interest in Christian Norgaard

Reports from the Dutch media have suggested that Ajax are eyeing up a move for Arsenal midfielder Christian Norgaard. It would be a surprising deal, considering the Dane only joined in the summer.

He has since played down any talk of a move, telling the press: "I am really, really happy here. The message that I get from the club is that they are really [happy] as well. So, for me, it is a mutual relationship that right now is working really good.

"It is developing. It is a learning curve for me as well. I need to also improve and show the tactics that Mikel is showing are getting under my skin.

"Hopefully coming into the last part of the season I can contribute more on the pitch."

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yesterday07:27 Luke Thrower

Good morning and welcome!

Hello and welcome to today's transfer live blog! With the transfer window nearing the final few days, make sure you keep tuned to all the latest news and rumours we'll bring you throughout the day!

Raheem Sterling previously admitted he had dreamed of playing for Arsenal, something that could potentially go against him during transfer talks with Tottenham Hotspur. The winger is now a free agent after leaving Chelsea earlier this week.

It means that he is able to sign for a new club, even outside of the January transfer window. Latest reports claim that his representatives have already held talks with up to seven clubs over a potential move.

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It’s reported by the Sun that one of those clubs is Tottenham. Spurs could have an advantage due to their location, with Sterling previously favouring a stay in London.

It is, however, now claimed that the 31-year-old is willing to move further afield in an attempt to relaunch his career. Napoli are one of the other clubs who are said to be showing an interest.

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Sterling started his career in QPR’s youth teams before moving to Liverpool as a youngster. He has since played for Man City and Chelsea.

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Last season, he spent the campaign on loan with Arsenal. Speaking about the decision to sign the former England international, the Gunners’ boss Mikel Arteta revealed how a phone call with the player convinced him and the club to pursue their interest.

"The first call I had with him I knew in the first 10 seconds we had to bring him here because he really wanted it," Arteta said.

"That was my only question mark: 'What stage is he at in his career?' After 10 seconds I knew already before the next questions that we needed him here.‌ His first words were: 'I was dreaming about this call.' That's it. That tells you that he really wants it and was already thinking about the possibility and he could see himself here, delivering and enjoying his profession.‌

"When that happened, the rest I knew about him, so that blew all the question marks away.”"

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Sterling's 'dream' to play for Arsenal is not likely to go down well with Tottenham. The loan deal with Spurs' north London rivals saw him play a total of 28 times in all competitions, scoring once and providing five assists.

Two of those appearances came in the Premier League clashes against Spurs, with his Arsenal debut coming as a late substitute in Arsenal’s 1-0 win at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in September 2024.

Omar Marmoush has reportedly become a target for Tottenham Hotspur in the January transfer window. The Manchester City forward has been linked with a switch to Spurs, though the club has just days remaining to complete a potential deal before the deadline.

The 26-year-old was brought in by Pep Guardiola for £59million last January after an impressive stint at Eintracht Frankfurt, netting 37 goals in 67 appearances. Stepping into the gap left by Julian Alvarez's departure months earlier, Marmoush made an instant impression upon his arrival. The Egypt international ended last season with seven goals in 16 league outings and looked set for a prominent role this term. However, he had to wait until last weekend's clash with Wolves for his first league goal of the campaign and has faced speculation over his future.

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It marked just Marmoush's third league start after recovering from a knee problem and also featuring for his country at the Africa Cup of Nations. City's recent signing of Antoine Semenyo has added to speculation that Marmoush might depart, with Spurs among various clubs reportedly interested in a £26million transfer. Despite his sluggish start to the season, Marmoush has earned praise from the likes of Haaland and Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner during his career.

Erling Haaland's 'special' verdict

Just days after joining City, Marmoush featured in a 3-1 triumph over Chelsea. Despite failing to find the net, Erling Haaland was immediately impressed by his new teammate.

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"I think especially in the first half you can see he has something special," Haaland said after Marmoush's debut. "There's a reason City brought him because he has something special.

"He got straight into the team and It's about getting to know him as soon as possible because there are so many important games coming. It's about giving him confidence and he's going to be a fantastic player for us."

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Haaland continued: "He had an amazing first half of the season for Eintracht Frankfurt and hopefully, he's going to have the same season with us now for the second half of the season."

Oliver Glasner bond

Marmoush first encountered Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner during his early days as a striker at Wolfsburg. He made his debut in 2020, appearing 10 times under the current Palace boss, before being sent on loan to St Pauli and Stuttgart.

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While his game needed improving, Glasner was quickly convinced Marmoush had potential. Despite their brief time at Wolfsburg, the duo maintained contact and Glasner praised Marmoush's character and footballing ability last year.

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"He has all the abilities to become one of the top strikers in the world," Glasner said before facing City last season "We could see from day one, when he trained with us, because he has the skills.

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"What I also loved was, at that time, he was in Germany for two and a half years and he spoke German perfectly. This is quite unusual. You could see he's a great guy, he has all the skills.

"It's in the football career, sometimes it's not a straight direction to the top. I think he was on loan at FC St Pauli, in VfB Stuttgart, performing for Wolfsburg and then the outstanding season for Frankfurt. Immediately he showed at Manchester City the kind of striker he is, so I'm really pleased for him, but not tomorrow!"

Tottenham star Dejan Kulusevski has posted a message to fans as his prolonged injury layoff drags on. The Sweden international has been sidelined since May 2025 following a knee injury that necessitated surgical intervention.

The problem kept him out of Spurs' Europa League success and he has now been absent for a total of 38 competitive fixtures with no definitive timeline for his comeback. Despite being unavailable for most of the current campaign, Kulusevski remains upbeat and has now delivered a clear statement on Instagram.

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Pictured alongside his daughter, who is sporting a Tottenham jersey, Kulusevski beams in what appears to be a gym with the message: "No matter what [sun emoji]." The original forecast suggested that Kulusevski might be available at some stage in late 2025 but this failed to come to fruition.

At the beginning of the year, Thomas Frank provided an assessment of his situation where the Spurs manager outlined the strategy for the forthcoming weeks. He said: "We know it's a complicated injury. If there's one person who can accelerate that, it's Dejan. He's a top pro and has got a top mentality.

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"The most important thing is to remove the pain in the knee. He got an injection to help that 10 days ago. We know in three to four weeks if it's settled and when it's settled, hopefully, he'll be on the grass and from there, we'll see what's happening.

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Prior to the Champions League encounter with Eintracht Frankfurt, Frank was questioned for an update. He said: "I don’t have any update on that one."

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The Spurs manager has been compelled to cope with numerous significant injury setbacks this campaign. Pedro Porro and Lucas Bergvall Rodrigo Bentancur, Richarlison, Mohammed Kudus and Ben Davies have all picked up issues in recent weeks. James Maddison meanwhile, is striving to recover from ACL surgery in this campaign following his long-term setback during pre-season.

Dominic Solanke had also sustained an injury before the current campaign began but he has recently returned and found the net in Wednesday night's victory over Frankfurt. Micky van de Ven was absent from that European fixture, though Frank expects him to available to face Manchester City.

Tottenham Hotspur have been making the most of the January transfer window. Not only has the club brought in Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid for £34million, but they have also snapped up Santos left-back Souza for a reported £13m.

While the north London side seem to have encountered difficulties in their pursuit of Liverpool's Andy Robertson of late, it hasn't dampened Thomas Frank's determination to complete additional signings before the February 2 deadline. And with Spurs also securing qualification to the round of 16 of the Champions League on Wednesday evening, they may require reinforcements to truly challenge for silverware on the European stage. With numerous players being linked with potential arrivals and departures at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium over the coming days, Express Sport examines all of the latest speculation that has emerged...

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Bold Bayern Munich approach

According to reports, Spurs officials have made contact with Leon Goretzka, as the Premier League heavyweights weigh up a potential swoop for the Bayern Munich midfielder. The German's contract expires this summer, and his future beyond 2025/26 remains unclear.

That's despite the 30-year-old clocking up 18 Bundesliga outings and a further six Champions League matches with the Bavarian giants this season. A transfer may prove complicated for Spurs, given that Goretzka hasn't publicly revealed his plans, whilst Barcelona and Atletico Madrid are also understood to be monitoring the midfielder.

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AC Milan are also reported to have approached Goretzka's representatives, with sporting director Igli Tare understood to be keen on the Bochum-born midfielder.

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Galatasaray ramp up Yves Bissouma pursuit

Galatasaray are believed to have intensified their pursuit of Yves Bissouma this month, with TEAMtalk claiming that the club's vice president has made the trip to north London for direct discussions with the midfielder before the transfer window shuts. The 29-year-old has found playing time hard to come by at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this season, registering just two Premier League outings in total.

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Bissouma's contract expires this summer, with Spurs having reportedly informed the player he can depart this month. Galatasaray are believed to be leading the chase for the Mali international, though rival interest is anticipated from elsewhere. Discussions between Galatasaray and Spurs regarding Bissouma also occurred during the summer window, but an agreement ultimately fell through.

It remains to be seen whether Spurs can reclaim some of the £25m they paid Brighton and Hove Albion for the player in 2022, or if he will leave on a free in the coming months.

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Potentially challenging chase

In terms of attacking reinforcements, the Lilywhites are thought to hold an interest in Osasuna winger Victor Munoz. The 22-year-old only made the switch to the Spanish outfit in the summer for £4.3m from Real Madrid.

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Following an impressive showing across 21 matches, in which he has netted three times and provided an assist, Tottenham are understood to be taking notice. Whilst several clubs are believed to be keeping tabs on Munoz currently, Spurs are regarded as the leading contenders when it comes to securing a potential agreement.

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While a reported £34.6million release clause should theoretically make a prospective transfer somewhat straightforward on the surface, signing Munoz could prove far more complicated behind the scenes. Reports suggest Los Blancos possess a buyback clause for the attacker worth approximately £6.9million, which would grant them a significant edge should they opt to bring him back to the Bernabeu.

Osasuna are also under no pressure whatsoever to part with the star, given he remains tied down until 2030, and may well refuse to budge on their asking price for Munoz.