The Boy Hotspur

Fabio Paratici, the former Tottenham Hotspur sporting director (and previously co-sporting director alongside Johan Lange), has taken what many interpret as a pointed swipe at his ex-employers’ owners during his unveiling as Fiorentina’s new sporting director.

In his press conference at Viola Park (Fiorentina’s training complex) around early February 2026, Paratici explained his decision to leave Spurs and return to Italy. While thanking Tottenham for the opportunity and his time there, he repeatedly emphasised the quality of Fiorentina’s ownership:

“In my case, Fiorentina have a serious set of owners, a very serious set of owners who are of great value.”

He described the move as a “courageous” (or “brave”) choice rather than reckless, highlighting Fiorentina’s infrastructure, global brand, shared vision, and — crucially — “very serious” owners. He repeated variations of “serious” multiple times when discussing why the role appealed to him.

This has been widely reported as a subtle (or not-so-subtle) dig at Tottenham’s owners (the Lewis family/ENIC), implying they may not meet the same standard of seriousness or commitment in his view.

Paratici also noted he decided to join Fiorentina around mid-December 2025, when the club was struggling, and that he convinced the late owner Rocco Commisso (who passed away in January 2026) to bring him on.

He expressed gratitude toward Spurs:

“I’d like to thank Tottenham, my former club, for the opportunity they granted me to join Fiorentina, return to Italy and the opportunity to spend five wonderful years in the Premier League. It was an incredible experience. They made me feel at home and stood by me in tough times, so I feel obliged to thank Tottenham.”

The comments sparked reactions, including Tottenham manager Thomas Frank defending the club’s owners as “very, very serious” when asked about it, reportedly with a laugh.

Paratici officially began his role at Fiorentina in early February 2026, arriving amid the club’s relegation battle in Serie A. The remarks have fuelled discussion among Tottenham fans and media about ownership frustrations, especially given recent transfer windows and club direction.

This appears to stem from his January 2026 departure from Spurs (cited as personal reasons) to take up the Fiorentina position.

Manchester United, sitting in 4th place with 41 points, are in excellent form under interim manager Michael Carrick. They’ve won their last three league games, including victories over Manchester City, Arsenal, and Fulham, remaining the only unbeaten Premier League side in 2026 so far. A win today would mark four consecutive league victories—their first such streak in over two years—and push them past last season’s total points tally with games still in hand. United have strong home confidence at Old Trafford.

Manchester United: Matthijs de Ligt remains sidelined. Questions linger over Mason Mount’s availability, but the squad is boosted by recent momentum.

Lammens, Dalot, Maguire, Martinez, Shaw, Casemiro, Mainoo, Amad, Fernandes, Cunha, Mbeumo

Tottenham: Positive updates on some defenders (e.g., Romero and Van de Ven), but overall, injuries have hampered them significantly.

Vicario; Palhinha, Romero, Van de Ven; Spence, Gray, Gallagher, Udogie; Odobert, Solanke, Simons

Many previews favour Manchester United due to their momentum, home advantage, and Spurs’ struggles—common scores suggested include 3-1 or 2-1 to United. However, Tottenham’s record in this matchup and potential for goals (over 2.5 goals often in recent home H2H) make it intriguing. Some tip a draw or BTTS (both teams to score), with Solanke highlighted as an anytime scorer.

One gets the sense that this game is likely to effectively end Thomas Frank’s hope for this season, with the team seemingly riddled with division and Tottenham’s hierarchy falling apart after another lacklustre window.

Tottenham’s fans weren’t very happy with the winter window.

The club is now preparing for what sporting director Johan Lange has described as a summer transfer window with “big ambitions” to strengthen the team ahead of the 2026/27 season. The club adopted a disciplined approach in the January 2026 window—making only two first-team signings (Conor Gallagher from Atlético Madrid for around £35m and Brazilian left-back Souza from Santos for about £13m) despite an injury crisis and available funds—while prioritising long-term targets and avoiding rushed deals. Lange emphasised that the summer market offers far more opportunities, with plans already drawn up for specific positions and player profiles.

Key priorities for the summer appear to include: Centre-back: There’s discussion about promoting 18-year-old Luka Vuskovic (currently impressing on loan) to the senior squad to potentially save millions rather than spending big on a new defender. This could help if key players like Cristian Romero (who has been linked with a possible £60m exit) depart.

Striker/Forward: Repeated mentions of needing a centre-forward or additional attacking options, following mixed results from previous signings like Mathys Tel, Randal Kolo Muani (loan), and others. Earlier January links (that didn’t materialise) included players like Maghnes Akliouche of Monaco, Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth, who went to Man City), and Jhon Duran.

Other areas: Potential interest in a goalkeeper upgrade, more midfield depth (e.g., a number six profile despite Gallagher’s arrival), and wide attackers or fullbacks. One report highlighted contact with Bayern Munich over an “elite attacker” (possibly Serge Gnabry or similar) as a potential statement signing. There’s also mention of Aleksandar Stankovic, that Club Brugge midfielder, 20, as a “strong target” facing competition from Manchester United.

Recent speculation includes Tottenham being linked with midfielders like Elliot Anderson and Adam Wharton (shared interest with other PL clubs like Liverpool and Arsenal), though these are broader rumours.

Overall, the focus is on targeted, high-quality additions rather than volume, with ENIC backing investment after injecting funds earlier. No major outgoings are confirmed yet for the summer, but retaining or replacing stars amid the club’s current mid-table position of around 14th in the Premier League will be key. Transfer plans remain fluid as the season progresses, but expectations are high for a more active window.

They certainly need to be.

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly interested in signing Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford in the summer.

The player has struggled to secure regular opportunities at Manchester City and needs to leave to play more often. He is a quality goalkeeper, and he showed that in the Championship last season. According to a report from TEAMtalk, Leeds United and Aston Villa are also interested in the player. The goalkeeper has been described as “incredible” in the past, and there is no doubt that he would be a super acquisition for Tottenham.

James Trafford to replace Vicario?

Guglielmo Vicario has done reasonably well since joining the London club, but he can be quite error-prone. Furthermore, he has a clear weakness in dealing with aerial balls and set pieces. Spurs need to address the situation, and adding more competition to the goalkeeping spot would be ideal. Trafford and Vicario can compete for the starting spot next season, and the more competition for places will help both players improve.

The Italian media recently claimed that the Spurs goalkeeper is in a ‘negative spiral’.

Spurs move would be ideal for Trafford

It will be interesting to see if Spurs follow up on their interest with an official proposal to get the deal done. They have the resources to sign the player, and convincing Trafford to join the club will not be difficult either. He will be desperate to get his career back on track, and the opportunity to join Tottenham will be hard to turn down for him. They have an ambitious project and a competitive team. He will look to compete at a high-level with them and fight for trophies.

Meanwhile, he is not a key player for Manchester City, and they are unlikely to stand in his way if a suitable proposal is presented.

Thomas Frank, who took over as Tottenham’s head coach in June 2025 (succeeding Ange Postecoglou), has publicly stated multiple times that he feels the “trust” and “support” of the club’s leadership despite a challenging first season marked by poor Premier League form, injuries, and fan discontent.

Modern football analysis increasingly relies on data, video work and well-organised systems behind the scenes, with clubs constantly looking for small efficiencies that can help reset momentum during difficult periods. Spurs are searching for something similar under Thomas Frank, a clearer structure and a fresh starting point, much like setting up a system properly before moving forward, whether that’s on the training ground or simply activating a PC with a Win 11 activation key.

Key points from mid-to-late January 2026:Frank had a lunch meeting with key figures, including CEO Vinai Venkatesham, sporting director Johan Lange, and Nick Beucher (representing the majority-shareholding Lewis family). He described this as positive (“all good”) and reiterated feeling “the trust along the way,” saying there’s consistent backing and support.

This came amid mounting pressure after results like a home loss to West Ham, with speculation about his job security.

Reports from sources like The Athletic, BBC Sport, Sky Sports, and ESPN echoed his comments, noting he insists on the board’s trust even as external pressure (including divided board discussions in some reports) and fan frustration build.

There were rumours in January 2026 of the board debating his future or considering a sacking (e.g., after a poor run), with some outlets suggesting it was “when not if,” but he remained in charge of subsequent matches, such as against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League.

More recently (into early February 2026):

Tottenham drew 2-2 with Manchester City on February 1, 2026, with Frank praising fan support and team resilience. No confirmed sacking or change has occurred as of the current date (February 4, 2026), and coverage still frames him as the manager dealing with ongoing issues like injuries rather than being replaced.

There are links to potential successors (e.g., Roberto De Zerbi), but the board appears to be giving him time, possibly to judge him once key players return from injury.

Overall, while there’s significant pressure, criticism from fans/supporters’ groups, and some internal debate reported, Frank himself and direct reports indicate the board continues to back him publicly and privately for now. The situation could evolve quickly with upcoming fixtures (e.g., tough matches against Manchester City, Newcastle, Arsenal).

Thomas Frank’s tactical style is characterised by pragmatism, adaptability, and a focus on defensive solidity paired with direct, vertical attacking play. Drawing from his successful tenure at Brentford and his evolving approach at Tottenham since June 2025, Frank prioritises tactical flexibility over rigid ideology, often adjusting formations and personnel to exploit opponents while addressing squad limitations such as injuries. His philosophy emphasises collective organisation, high-intensity pressing, and efficient transitions, making him a “pragmatist willing to switch up tactics”, unlike more idealistic predecessors.

Tottenham defender Luka Vuskovic is currently on loan at Hamburg, and he has done exceptionally well for the German club.

The 18-year-old is regarded as one of the finest young defenders in Europe right now, and Munich are interested in signing the player.

Former Tottenham player Ramon Vega believes the 18-year-old defender is unlikely to return to Tottenham and could leave the club without playing a single senior game.

Vega on Luka Vuskovic future

Former Tottenham defender Ramon Vega tweeted: “This player is not coming back to Spurs!

“Another of many players the Spurs had a chance with, but they made the wrong decision.

“This is an example of the problem Spurs have been having within the football department! A total neglect.

“They will make good money, for sure, but there’s no football direction within the club. Off to Bayern he goes, no wonder I will not blame him.”

This player is not coming back to Spurs! Another of many players the Spurs had a chance with, but they made the wrong decision. This is an example of the problem Spurs have been having within the football department! A total neglect. They will make good money, for sure, but… https://t.co/9RaDtAGHh1

— Ramon Vega (@Ramon_Vega71) February 3, 2026

Vuskovic to leave?

It will be interesting to see whether Bayern Munich is willing to make an offer to sign the player in the summer. There is no doubt that he is an exceptional talent with a bright future, and he could develop into a world-class player. He could be tempted to make the move to an elite club in the summer.

However, he needs to join a club where he can play a prominent role. Sitting on the bench at a big club would be detrimental to his development.

If the German champion can or promise him regular opportunities, it does not make sense for the young defender to join them. The Croatian needs to play every week in order to fulfil his potential. Tottenham can provide him with that opportunity, especially with Cristian Romero expected to leave in the summer.

It will be interesting to see how the situation develops. It would be a huge disappointment for Tottenham if they lose the 18-year-old defender in the summer.

Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero has been linked with a move away from the club in recent months.

He was linked with an exit at the start of the season, but the north London club managed to convince him to stay. However, it seems extremely likely that he will lead the club at the end of the season.

Cristian Romero wants out

The player is believed to be frustrated by the lack of ambition in the transfer market, and he recently posted an explosive message on social media criticising the club.

There have been rumours that he could leave the club in the summer, and Thomas Frank was recently questioned whether the player will be at the club next season.

Frank said via Football London: “That’s a question I have no idea about. Right now he is the captain, he has a long-term contract and we signed a new contract with him.”

Frank comments on Romero will worry fans

The Tottenham manager’s response will certainly worry the fans. It is clear that Tottenham are unsure whether the defender will stay beyond this season. He is one of the best defenders in European football right now, and he deserves to compete at the highest level. He will be hoping to win major trophies at the club level, and Spurs are not quite at that level yet.

He has been linked with a move to La Liga in recent months. It will be interesting to see where he ends up. He has won the World Cup and Copa América with Argentina, and he will now look to win the Champions League and League titles at the club level.

His departure would be a huge blow for Tottenham, and there is no doubt that he is their best defender. It will be interesting to see how they replace him.

Yes, Daniel Levy is actively looking to sell his shares in Tottenham Hotspur. More precisely, he holds approximately 29-30% stake in ENIC (the parent company that controls about 86-87% of Tottenham Hotspur FC). Recent reports from early 2026 (including as of February 5, 2026) indicate he is in discussions or seeking buyers for this minority stake, valuing it at around £1 billion.

Key details from reliable sources: Levy was ousted as Tottenham’s executive chairman in September 2025 by the Lewis family (majority owners via their trust).

He is reportedly negotiating with a consortium including Hong Kong businessman Ng Wing-Fai (and possibly others like US investor Brooklyn Earick teaming up), with most funding from Asian tycoons.

Some reports suggest an agreement could be close or even concluding soon, though Levy has reportedly dismissed claims of being “close” to a specific deal in one instance.

The Lewis family (who control the majority of ENIC) have no first refusal or matching rights on his shares, so they cannot block a sale to a third party—though they retain overall control of the club regardless.

Buying Levy’s stake would give no control over Tottenham (it’s a minority position in ENIC), and the Lewis family insist the club itself is not for sale.

Commentators like Simon Jordan have indicated the sale is “100% happening,” with the Lewis family possibly pressuring or interested in buying it themselves if no suitable external buyer emerges.

This stems from Bloomberg (late January 2026), The Telegraph, The Sun, SportsPro, and others, with updates as recent as February 5, 2026.

No final sale has been confirmed yet—it’s still in the “talks” or “looking for buyers” phase—but the intent to sell appears clear and ongoing. This could mark the end of Levy’s long financial ties to Spurs after over 25 years. For Tottenham fans, it means potential shifts in ownership dynamics but no immediate full takeover of the club.

The cost of watching Tottenham Hotspur (Spurs) matches on TV varies significantly depending on your location, the competition (primarily Premier League, but also Champions League/Europa League, FA Cup, etc.), and whether you opt for full subscriptions, pay-per-view/day passes, or club-specific services.

These days, convenience is key. With daily expenses such as streaming services and international subscriptions becoming more common, many supporters use digital wallets for convenience, such as PCS top up where you don’t need to have a bank account or credit card.

Tottenham’s Premier League games are broadcast live on Sky Sports (primary broadcaster, showing the majority) and TNT Sports (fewer games). Highlights are often on the BBC.

Mandatory TV Licence: Required by law to watch any live TV broadcasts (including football). It costs £174.50 per year (or about £14.54 per month). Without this, it’s illegal to watch live coverage on TV or devices.

Sky Sports (main option for most Spurs games): Full Sky TV packages with Sports channels start around £35–£50+ per month (depending on bundle, contract length, and add-ons; e.g., £35/month mentioned for Sky Sports access on a longer contract).

For flexibility without a full Sky subscription, use NOW (formerly NOW TV): Day pass for Sports: Around £14.99 (for 24-hour access to watch a specific match).

Monthly pass: Around £34.99 (cancel anytime, covers all Sky Sports channels).

TNT Sports (for some matches, often midweek or specific slots): Available via Sky Q packages or directly through Discovery+ / TNT Sports streaming.

Costs around £30–£31 per month (often bundled with Discovery+ content).

To watch all or most live Premier League games (including Tottenham’s), you typically need both Sky and TNT Sports access, plus the TV Licence—potentially totalling £50–£80+ per month depending on your setup. Not all games are on TV due to the 3 pm Saturday blackout rule for lower leagues, but Premier League matches are widely covered.

For non-live content: SPURSPLAY (Tottenham’s official streaming service): Provides full-match replays, highlights (available ~24 hours after games), pre-season friendlies, academy/women’s matches, and exclusive club content. It costs £45 per year (£35 discounted for season ticket holders or One Hotspur members). No live first-team Premier League/cup games due to broadcast restrictions.

FA Cup games may be on BBC (free with TV Licence) or TNT Sports, while European games (e.g., Champions League) are on TNT Sports/Discovery+.In the US (for reference, as some queries imply international interest)

Tottenham’s Premier League matches stream primarily on Peacock (NBC’s service), with some on USA Network or other channels. Peacock Premium: Starts around $10.99–$11/month (with ads) or higher for ad-free.

Other options like fuboTV or Sling may carry select games. Costs can add up if following multiple competitions (e.g., Champions League on Paramount+).

Radu Drăgușin’s name is set to remain on the radar of European clubs during the summer transfer window.

The Romanian centre‑back has barely featured for Tottenham this season, playing only a handful of minutes, and is keen to move on in search of regular game time. Milan held long talks with his representatives in January, exploring both a loan with an option to buy and a permanent deal. Spurs, however, are not keen on temporary solutions and would prefer a straight sale.

Napoli and Roma have also shown interest. Roma’s pursuit slowed due to changes in their squad planning, while Napoli continued discussions with Tottenham. Fiorentina considered Dragusin as part of their defensive search, but the player’s camp dismissed that option. Sky Sports Italy report that the player doesn’t want a loan; he wants to be sold.

Tottenham are demanding between €20–25 million for the defender, a figure that does not align with Milan and Napoli’s proposals involving loans plus purchase options. The Premier League club’s stance aligns with the player: they want a permanent transfer.

Radu signed in January 2024 from Genoa for around €25 million, making him the most expensive Romanian player at the time. He suffered a major ACL injury in early 2025, missing nearly a year, and has since returned but has struggled to secure consistent minutes under the new management (Thomas Frank appears to have taken over).

Recent performances, including a poor showing in a match against Manchester City, have fuelled speculation about his future, with some fans suggesting Tottenham should be open to selling him.

Dragusin himself is eager to join a project where he can play consistently, which makes a summer move increasingly likely. Reports also suggest RB Leipzig is monitoring his situation and could step in with a permanent offer. With several clubs circling, competition for his signature is expected to heat up, and Tottenham’s asking price will be the key factor in negotiations.