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Thomas Frank has huge expectations to meet as Tottenham head into the 2025/26 Premier League season.

Ange Postecoglou won Tottenham the UEFA Europa League and a trophy for the first time in 17 years.

But Spurs went on to dismiss Postecoglou after he finished 17th in the Premier League. His 22 defeats broke records for being the most without relegation.

Tottenham appointed Frank as manager to improve their league record. As a result, the expectations for the Dane were set before he set foot in North London.

However, those expectations have only risen since he got down to business.

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This article includes exclusive comments from Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham.

Tottenham expected to finish top five in the Premier League

Tottenham take on Burnley in their opening game of the Premier League season on Saturday, 16 August.

The game will be the first time that Frank’s team are back in action since PSG defeated Spurs in the UEFA Super Cup final.

There should be a couple of rotations ahead of the game, with Dominic Solanke predicted to start over Richarlison.

But whatever lineup takes to the pitch, fans will be expecting an improved performance.

The full potential of this Tottenham side has already been displayed during pre-season. Defensively, the Lilywhites look almost unrecognisable.

As a result, Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – has made a bold prediction on where Spurs will end the season.

“I think the performance against PSG lifted expectations for the season,” Wenham said.

“In terms of people previously maybe saying Tottenham are going to finish in an eighth, ninth or tenth. I don’t mean in terms of Tottenham fans who have watched this team throughout preseason and the evolution. But pundits who watch multiple clubs, or don’t in some cases.

“But I think now we’re looking at a minimum of top five for Tottenham this season. and an advancement out of the initial UEFA Champions League group stage.”

Manchester City could be the beginning of the end for Tottenham

While Tottenham are expected to come out on top against Burnley, there are concerns about what is still to come.

The Lilywhites face Manchester City at the Etihad next, with games against Bournemouth, West Ham and Brighton to follow. This string of games will be a huge test and will impact where they finish in the league.

Spurs folding against Man City could throw them off their game for the next couple of matches. All three games are ones Spurs would have preferred to play a little deeper into the season.

As a result, the game against City could be a decisive indicator of how the season will pan out for Frank’s side.

Why latest Eberechi Eze decision taken by Crystal Palace is great news for Tottenham

Tottenham look set to push forward with their pursuit of Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze despite his release clause expiring.

Eze has become Tottenham’s main transfer target since James Maddison was ruled out with a long-term injury.

Eze had a release clause on his Crystal Palace contract guaranteeing any club that bid £68million for him the right to negotiate a deal.

That clause expired at midnight on Friday, but their chances of signing him appear to be improving.

Eze set to be left out of Crystal Palace squad for Premier League opener

Eze has been tipped to join a bigger club this summer after his heroic performances for Crystal Palace last season.

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And it appears as if that’s what he wants to do.

Transfer news specialist Sacha Tavolieri is reporting via X (16 August) that Eze is pushing Crystal Palace to let him join Spurs.

Tavolieri adds that Palace are planning to leave Eze out of the squad for their Premier League opener against Chelsea on Sunday.

What’s more, he says that the Eagles are already in talks with a potential replacement for the England international.

Eze unrest is a good sign for Tottenham

If Eze is left out of Crystal Palace’s game against Chelsea, that’s a great sign that Tottenham will be able to lure him away from Selhurst Park.

As annoying as it can be for some clubs, the reality is: most players get their way when they try to force a move like this.

That’s exciting for Tottenham fans who have seen such impressive and consistent performances for Crystal Palace and England last season.

There’s still a long way to go though.

Tottenham will still need to make a bid deemed acceptable by Crystal Palace. It has been suggested this could now be as high as £80million.

They may also need to beat rival clubs for his signature. Arsenal were also sniffing around him earlier this summer.

With just over two weeks until the transfer window closes, this could be a deal that goes down to the wire.

Yves Bissouma was always heading towards a departure from Tottenham this summer.

Tottenham fans thought Bissouma had transformed at the start of the 2023/24 season. The Mali international had struggled to reach his full potential since signing from Brighton in 2022.

But even Ange Postecoglou could not divert Bissouma from his on and off-field antics. As a result, an exit was always on the cards before 1 September.

And Thomas Frank has learned the hard way why Spurs have been keen to sell the midfielder.

This article includes exclusive comments from Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham.

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Bissouma in the squad to face Burnley

Bissouma was not named in the squad which saw Tottenham defeated by PSG in the UEFA Super Cup final.

The Spurs gaffer mentioned before the confrontation that the defensive midfielder had been sidelined due to disciplinary reasons.

Joao Palhinha’s arrival was meant to confirm Bissouma’s departure. But several days later and he looks to be in the squad to face Burnley in Tottenham’s Premier League opener.

However, Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes Bissouma will still leave this summer.

“Frank has already said that he’s going to be back in the squad for Burnley,” Wenham said.

“I still expect him to go as well. I think the fact that we are seeing Joao Palhinha and Rodrigo Bentancur form this partnership and holding to the evolution of Pape Matar Sarr, seems the old man out.”

What went wrong for Bissouma at Tottenham?

There was a fleeting moment in the Super Cup final where Spurs supporters may have wondered what the outcome would have been if Bissouma had been substituted on rather than Archie Gray.

But his inconsistency and work ethic make that scenario difficult to imagine. These are mainly the reasons why he’s struggled to succeed at Spurs.

From his minimal participation in pre-season games to being sidelined for the final, it is clear he is not in Frank’s plans.

As a result, it is almost pointless to continue to have the defender on the books. With a couple of weeks until the window closes, Tottenham should look to secure his next club.

Tottenham supporters could be set for a very exciting end to the transfer window after the latest news regarding Piero Hincapie.

As usual, supporters aren’t completely satisfied with Daniel Levy’s business this summer.

While the arrival of Mohammed Kudus from West Ham excited fans, and Joao Palhinha seems a shrewd signing, the failed pursuit of Morgan Gibbs-White and the lack of overall investment has once again left fans underwhelmed.

However, it looks as though Tottenham could be set for a very exciting end to the transfer window. The Lilywhites are continuing to pursue deals for Savinho and Eberechi Eze.

And now they could be set to make a move for Bayer Leverkusen centre-back Hincapie.

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Tottenham identify Hincapie as ‘ideal candidate’

According to reliable Spurs insider Paul O’Keefe, Spurs have identified Hincapie as their preferred signing at left centre-back.

O’Keefe wrote via X on Friday, 15 August, that there is an appreciation that any deal would be difficult and expensive.

However, Thomas Frank and Tottenham view the 23-year-old as an “ideal candidate”.

https://x.com/pokeefe1/status/1956387962381332491

Micky van de Ven and Hincapie could rotate at Tottenham

Spending big money on a left centre-back would seem unusual for Tottenham when they already have Micky van de Ven, who is arguably one of the best left-sided centre-backs in the Premier League.

However, the biggest clubs have strength in depth, and by signing Hincapie, Spurs would arguably have the most impressive options in that position in the entire Premier League, and perhaps the whole of Europe.

Spurs will play a lot of football this season with the UEFA Champions League on the agenda, and as Frank displayed by deploying a back-five in the Super Cup against PSG, the Dane will change his approach to matches depending on the opponent.

As a result, the Spurs boss will need a big squad, and having another top-class option at centre-back could prove important.

In addition, van de Ven’s injury record does not make for positive reading.

Therefore, if Spurs were to sign Hincapie to rotate with van de Ven, they could get the best out of both players, which would make Frank’s side one to watch next season.

Daniel Levy faces expensive mistake after late-night Eberechi Eze development

Tottenham remain interested in signing Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace.

Eze has been tipped to sign for a bigger club after his impressive season at Crystal Palace.

Spurs stepped up their interest in him after James Maddison was ruled out for several months with an ACL injury.

However, a late-night development on Friday may have scuppered Tottenham‘s chances of signing him.

Tottenham could miss out on Eze bargain after release clause expires

Eze had a release clause in his Crystal Palace contract, allowing him to talk to any clubs willing to bid £68million for him.

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However, that release clause expired on Friday at midnight.

That means Crystal Palace now have the right to refuse bids of any size for Eze as long as he remains contracted at Selhurst Park.

Reports indicate Daniel Levy wanted to pay less than £68m for Eze, and that’s believable considering his reputation as a ruthless negotiator.

However, it has been suggested that Tottenham may now have to pay more than £80m for Eze if they want to sign the England international.

Daniel Levy could be questioned as Eze release clause expires

Several mid-table clubs have sold their prized playmakers in this transfer window.

Levy may have used those transfers to suggest that Eze wasn’t worth £68m and try to drive down the asking price.

He negotiated a deal for Mohammed Kudus, another proven Premier League playmaker, for £55m.

This is a logical argument if that’s what happened, but at the same time, Tottenham are in a sticky situation after Maddison’s injury.

They’ve sold Son Heung-min, while Dejan Kulusevski is also injured. They need a new playmaker as soon as possible.

If Levy had considered Tottenham’s desperation, perhaps the £68m for Eze could have been justified.

Instead, they’re likely in a situation where they’ll have to pay more or focus on another target.

Yves Bissouma’s long-term future at Tottenham remains unclear.

Bissouma hasn’t made a great first impression on Thomas Frank.

The midfielder was left behind in England as Spurs were beaten on penalties by Paris Saint-Germain following a 2-2 draw in the UEFA Super Cup, which was played in Udine on Wednesday, 13 August.

Frank explained that Bissouma had turned up late to training several times and was left out of the squad for the Super Cup as punishment.

This only further fueled speculation that Bissouma could be sold by Tottenham this summer, as a fresh update now emerges.

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Bissouma wants to stay in England

Bissouma only has one year left on his contract with Tottenham.

As a result, it wouldn’t be a shock to see the Mali international sold. However, as reported by Sacha Tavolieri via X on Friday, 15 August, Bissouma wants to remain at Tottenham.

The 28-year-old is keen to stay in England, as if he remains in the country for one more year, he could obtain his British passport, and remaining in North London is his first choice.

However, if he is pushed out by Frank, the Spurs man is willing to consider other options.

West Ham and Everton are both monitoring his situation. Therefore, it seems as though Bissouma could be prepared to move to the London Stadium if the opportunity arises.

Bissouma to break 14-year trend if he joins West Ham

Mohammed Kudus became the first player to move between Tottenham and West Ham in 14 years when he signed for the former from the latter for £55million this summer.

Before that, the last player to move between the two clubs was Scott Parker in 2011.

And if Bissouma were to join West Ham, he would break a similar trend. The same year that Parker left to join Spurs, David Bentley signed for the Hammers on loan from Tottenham.

This means it has been 14 years since a player has left Tottenham to join West Ham. As a result, Bissouma could break the mould, just as Kudus did earlier this summer.

Previously, business between the two clubs has been largely a no-go. However, after Kudus’ transfer, relations seem to have improved, making Bissouma’s move to the London Stadium a possibility if he is pushed out by Frank.

Daniel Levy will be ecstatic to hear about the profit which could be made on a new Tottenham signing.

Ange Postecoglou guaranteed Levy a multi-million financial boost after Tottenham played in the UEFA Super Cup final.

The Lilywhites were daring and fought well. But on the night Tottenham lost against PSG at the Stadio Friuli.

Like Postecoglou, Frank could help boost Spurs’ finances. Whether on the pitch or in the event of a sale, Levy could make millions.

This article includes exclusive comments from Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham.

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Mohammed Kudus ‘worth £80million’ after Tottenham transfer

Tottenham signed Mohammed Kudus from West Ham earlier this summer for a £55million fee.

Kudus has since been considered a “top five” Tottenham player.

However, the Lilywhites have been shopping in the market for another winger. Tottenham wants to sign Savinho from Manchester City as another attacking option.

This is a potential signing Spurs supporters have welcomed. But others remain less convinced.

It is understood that Man City could want around £70m for the Brazilian winger. However, Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes it is Kudus, not Savinho who is worth that fee.

“Manchester City last year probably had their worst year in 12 to 15 years,” Wenham said.

“They’re now looking to move the player on for double the fee they paid for him. I know he’s young and a Brazilian player, and there are lots of good attributes there. “But to me, when we’re talking about £70-80m, it seems a lot when you benchmark for Kudus £55m.

“Look at what we’ve got for that £55m. Kudus for me is already worth £70-80m. That’s the level of player I’m seeing there.”

Tottenham should prioritise Eberechi Eze

The Lilywhites plan to sign both Eberechi Eze and Savinho this summer. But if push comes to shove, the former should take priority.

Tottenham already have several players who can play on the wing. Meanwhile, Spurs desperately need someone to replace James Maddison in the 10 position.

With Man City wanting an extortionate amount for the Brazilian, Tottenham may be best placed to focus on Eze for now.

Tottenham are keen on Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze after Morgan Gibbs-White committed his future to Nottingham Forest.

Thomas Frank was intent on signing Gibbs-White, who himself wanted a move to North London this summer.

However, Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis prevented the England international from leaving the City Ground.

Eze falls short in physical data comparisons to Gibbs-White

The Spurs board appear to be backing Frank in this window as he was chosen to replace Ange Postecoglou.

While they have already signed Mohammed Kudus and Mathys Tel for big money, work is ongoing on more new signings.

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Tottenham are now focusing on Eze and could spend around £70million to sign the 27-year-old in the next couple of weeks.

Football London reported on 15 August that while the Lilywhites have decided to sign the England international after missing out on Gibbs-White, some analysts believe that he does not rank as high as the Forest star in certain metrics.

Eze does not have the physical data of the 25-year-old but has the ability to unlock defences from out wide or even centrally.

Tottenham can succeed by signing Eze and must go ahead with the deal

Eze’s potential signing by Tottenham is a blessing in disguise over Gibbs-White, as his skill set better suits Frank’s system.

The 27-year-old Crystal Palace star offers superior dribbling and versatility across attacking midfield and wide roles.

His eight goals and eight assists in the Premier League show just how good he is in the final third.

The Palace star’s composure under pressure and flair in tight spaces align with Frankk’s emphasis on creativity, while Gibbs-White, though industrious, lacks the same incisiveness.

At £70million, Eze’s proven Premier League quality and potential for growth make him a better long-term investment for Tottenham’s ambitions.

Tottenham are pursuing a deal for Manchester City star Savinho, and the winger could be their answer to Bukayo Saka.

Savinho emerged as a shock target in recent days following the departure of club legend Son Heung-min, and would be a terrific addition.

Thomas Frank needs more attacking firepower, and Spurs could even sign Eberechi Eze alongside Savinho, which would really embarrass rivals Arsenal, who are also keen on the Crystal Palace star.

Arsenal’s best attacker is England star Saka, but if Spurs sign Savinho, they can revel in the fact that he outstrips the Englishman in several key stats.

Savinho compared to Saka as Spurs pursue move

Savinho was outstanding at Girona before moving to Man City last year, but while he could not provide much output in front of goal, he has shown himself to be a huge talent in one season under Pep Guardiola.

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Saka has established himself as one of the best wingers in the Premier League, but Savinho is a few years younger, and already boasts some better underlying metrics than the Arsenal talisman.

Despite his young age, Savinho has shown himself to be a deadly dribbler with the ball at his feet, and this could make him incredibly useful on the counter-attack.

And it is in the successful take-on metric that Savinho has already destroyed Spurs nemesis Saka.

Savinho can reach his potential at Tottenham

Frank is clearly trying to build a speedy side capable of ripping teams apart on the counter, with Mohammed Kudus also joining as a fast wide attacker, and Savinho could be perfect for this side as a result.

If Spurs are to play a counter-attacking, direct style, then Savinho will be better-suited to Tottenham than he is to City.

With more space to run into, Savinho can showcase the best of his dribbling ability and speed at Spurs, and this could see him return to the level of output he showed at Girona.

It would be a coup if Spurs can convince City to part ways with the 21-year-old, but they will be excited about his long-term potential if he does end up moving this summer.

Thomas Frank will be hoping to celebrate a victory when Tottenham host Burnley on Saturday afternoon.

Spurs take on Burnley at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday, 16 August, with a new manager at the helm.

Frank will be hoping for a boost in morale after Paris Saint-Germain defeated Spurs on penalties in the UEFA Super Cup final.

But Spurs are not expected to let the shock defeat deter them from improving on a 17th-place finish last season. This was one of the reasons that Frank was appointed manager, and Tottenham continues to arm him with reinforcements.

Earlier this summer, Spurs signed Mohammed Kudus, who is proving to be an excellent transfer. Meanwhile, the Lilywhites are preparing a second approach for Manchester City’s Savinho.

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Regardless of whether Tottenham gets these final transfers over the line, Frank will be expected to produce a top-five finish.

Form guide (including pre-season)

Tottenham: DWDLL

Burnley: WWDLL

Team News

Tottenham are set to be without Dejan Kulusevski, who may be sidelined until December.

Destiny Udoge is not expected to return for Spurs’ opener. While Kota Takai and Manor Solomon remain in doubt. But those who appeared in the squad to face PSG should be fit for the game on Saturday.

Frank could give Kudus and Joao Palhinha their first starts for Tottenham in the Premier League. While Dominic Solanke could be handed his first start since returning from injury.

Zeki Amdouni, Jordan Beyer, Zian Flemming and Bashir Humphreys are all out for Burnley. However, Scott Parker’s most recent signings, Martin Dubravka, Armando Brojo and Lesley Ugochukwu should be available for selection.

Predicted lineup

Tottenham: Vicario; Porro, Romero, van de Ven, Spence; Palhinha, Sarr, Bentancur; Kudus, Solanke, Tel

Burnley: Weiss; Walker, Ekdal, Esteve, Hartman; Laurent, Cullen; Sonne, Mejeri, Anthony; Foster

Prediction: Tottenham 2-0 Burnley

Expect the Lilywhites to start the season strongly against Burnley with a 2-0 victory at home.

Frank showed promise during Spurs’ defeat to PSG despite the result. Within a short space of time, Tottenham have a defensive and attacking structure which was lacking beforehand.

With Kudus and Solanke expected to find the back of the net for Tottenham, fans can be sure to start the season off on the right foot.