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Yves Bissouma is approaching his exit at Tottenham after three years in North London.

Bissouma has struggled for consistency since joining Tottenham from Brighton, and has less than 12 months remaining on his current deal.

Thomas Frank got a glimpse of the 28-year-old in action against Reading (19 July), during which the Mali international produced a typically mixed performance, displaying some excellent touches intertwined with sloppy moments.

The Mali international has attracted interest from clubs like Fenerbache and Juventus this summer, and could see his Spurs exit fast-tracked following recent developments.

Spurs expected to agree deal for Joao Palhinha

Tottenham have been exploring a deal for Joao Palhinha this summer as Thomas Frank looks to solve Spurs’ woeful defensive record in recent seasons.

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The Lilywhites have lacked a specialist holding midfielder, with both Bissouma and Rodrigo Bentancur struggling to operate in that role.

As reported by The Telegraph (24 July), “sources in Europe” believe that Spurs have a good chance of reaching an agreement for Palhinha.

However, any deal for the Portugal international would be dependent on Tottenham selling one of their five current central midfielders first.

Frank has over thirty senior players in his squad, and with a deal still expected to go through for Morgan Gibbs-White, the Dane will have a decision to make ahead of the proposed transfer.

The 51-year-old publicly praised Archie Gray, Lucas Bergvall, and Bentancur in his first week at Hotspur Way and is expected to work with Pape Matar Sarr, who made the most appearances for Tottenham last season (55).

This leaves Bissouma, whose departure is now effectively sealed as the North Londoners look to facilitate Palhinha’s move.

Spurs need to reboot their activity in the transfer market

Spurs looked like they were on course to turn their approach to transfers around during a 24-hour period in which they signed Mohammed Kudus and triggered Gibbs-White’s release clause.

However, the latter has yet to go through, and two weeks on, Tottenham have seemingly stagnated in the market again.

Frank is still short of a holding midfielder, which Palhinha would help solve, while there is still a feeling that another striker and a fullback could be brought in this summer.

The Lilywhites will hope that the move for the Nottingham Forest midfielder was not a red herring, and that the club can reboot their summer plans sooner rather than later to give the Dane the best chance of succeeding in the upcoming season.

Tottenham are keen on a move for Bayern Munich outcast Joao Palhinha.

Palhinha only joined Bayern from Fulham a year ago but has struggled for game time with the German champions, and could be ready to return to England.

Tottenham need to reinforce their midfield options, and Palhinha’s experience could be an ideal fit among an otherwise young squad.

The former Fulham star is now being targeted by Thomas Frank, in a move that would go against Daniel Levy’s recent transfer policy.

Palhinha to become rare senior signing at Tottenham

Tottenham’s interest in Palhinha is likely to mean Yves Bissouma departs, but even so, the midfielder is older than the other players Levy has targeted in recent years.

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Younger talents such as Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall have been signed, and even the more experienced players, such as Dominic Solanke and Mohammed Kudus, have all arrived before their prime years.

At 30, Palhinha would be one of the oldest players to arrive at Spurs in the last decade, and this shows a shift in Levy’s transfer planning.

The Telegraph (July 24) has now reported that Palhinha would be the first player over 30 to join Spurs for a transfer fee, since Fernando Llorente arrived from Swansea in 2017, eight years ago.

This is a surprising but welcome change for Spurs, and there will be plenty of upsides to the deal.

Palhinha is an instant impact signing for Tottenham

Tottenham’s policy over the years has seen them trade success for potential, as younger players with resale value have been signed under Levy to eventually be sold for profit.

Palhinha goes against this, as it is unlikely that Spurs will profit on an ageing player, regardless of how he performs.

The midfielder is being targeted as a proven player who can make an instant impact, while also helping the younger players in the squad, and will be a refreshing addition in this sense.

Frank was reportedly keen on Christian Norgaard, but Palhinha would arguably bring more quality as a top-level midfielder ready to instantly start.

Daniel Levy looks set to be rewarded for his contributions at Tottenham.

Tottenham fans have formed somewhat of a love-hate relationship with Levy over the years, but as of late, it has certainly been more of the latter

The Tottenham chairman has been accused of failing to invest when it matters, while also being reluctant to make the necessary decisions to get this club back where it should be.

However, despite all the concerns and frustration aimed at Levy, he looks set to be rewarded, and Tottenham fans are baffled.

Levy to be given Freedom of City in London

Levy is set to receive the Freedom of the City of London [The Standard] due to his significant contributions to the city throughout his time as Tottenham chairman.

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The 63-year-old has been with Spurs since 2001, making him the longest-serving chairman in the Premier League.

He, of course, played a crucial role in the development of the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and rightly or wrongly will be recognised for when Tottenham ended a 17-year trophy drought by winning the Europa League.

The award is presented to individuals for outstanding contributions to London or significant achievements, and Levy’s nomination was confirmed at a City of London meeting this week, with the ceremony expected at Guildhall in 2025.

However, Spurs fans cannot quite believe the news.

Levy still needs to do more for Tottenham

Spurs finished 17th in the Premier League last season, and if that isn’t a wake-up call for Levy to make some changes, then nothing ever will be.

Tottenham have made some good signings this summer, but are still miles behind where they want to be.

There is significant potential in the current squad, but the need for extra quality remains evident, and there is still time to rectify that.

Levy needs to realise that and put those plans into action with the new season just weeks away.

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

Tottenham are continuing to agree contracts with top young talent in North London.

Daniel Levy has been keen to strengthen Spurs’ squad over the past few months. This has seen him bring in talent from elsewhere, such as Mohammed Kudus.

However, the 63-year-old has also put an emphasis on the academy.

Luca Williams-Barnett and Tynan Thompson hailed at Tottenham

Luca Williams-Barnett and Tynan Thompson have formally joined Spurs’ Under-18s squad after signing two-year scholarships in North London.

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Both impressed during the 2024/25 season. Williams-Barnett picked up the Under-18 Premier League Goal of the Season award for his beautiful effort from the halfway line against Leicester City back in November.

Meanwhile, Thompson contributed to 15 goals in 26 appearances for the Under-18s and stepped up to make his debut for the Under-21s against AFC Ajax in the Premier League International Cup.

As a result, Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – has heaped praise on both players ahead of next season.

“Williams-Barnett is someone that everybody already knows about,” Wenham said.

“He is an outstanding player who can play as a 10 or off the left, creates goals, scores ridiculous goals, massive Tottenham fan and wants to play for his boyhood club. The one that goes under the radar, who is almost as good as Williams-Barnett, is Thompson.

“He is a left winger who can beat anybody on the ball. Really good pace and trickery, and has got this ability to cut in and finish from his right foot into the far corner of the goal that we see crop up eight, nine, ten times a season. So, he is one of the standouts.”

Williams-Barnett could break into the first team

With the talent that Williams-Barnett possesses, it is only a matter of time before he breaks into Spurs’ first team.

He is a rare midfield profile who can score as well as he can create for others. This level of technical ability, combined with his off-the-ball movement, makes him a threat to most opposition.

With the correct development plan and minutes, there is no doubt that he could shine on some of the biggest footballing stages. As a result, William-Barnett is one to keep an eye on in the coming months.

Thomas Frank is slowly preparing for life at Tottenham without Son Heung-min.

Son has been a stalwart for Spurs since signing from Bayer Leverkusen in August 2015, with the South Korean going on to make 454 appearances for the Lilywhites since he arrived in North London.

He is Tottenham’s fourth all-time top goalscorer, but at 33 years old, he is slowly becoming less impactful for the North Londoners and is set to leave.

Son’s exit seems imminent amid interest from Los Angeles FC, with Tottenham News assessing three players Spurs could sign to replace their outgoing captain.

Jacob Ramsey – Aston Villa

Tottenham have a long-standing interest in Jacob Ramsey and were seriously looking at signing the Englishman from Aston Villa last summer.

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The 24-year-old has predominantly played on the left wing this season, but is known for his versatility and has proven to be equally comfortable in the centre of the park.

The Birmingham-born player has reportedly grown discontent with his game time under Unai Emery, starting just half of Villa’s Premier League games last season.

Spurs could reignite their interest in Ramsey this summer and capitalise on Villa’s PSR worries, hoping that they would be tempted to cash in with less than two years left on his contract.

Tyler Dibling – Southampton

Frank has a few forwards who could fill in for now for Son, and could look to invest in the future by targeting Tyler Dibling.

Tottenham were considering signing Dibling as early as January last season, after the youngster impressed in his first season in the Premier League with Southampton.

Despite finishing bottom of the league, the 19-year-old displayed great confidence and dribbling abilities with the Saints, making 38 appearances across all competitions.

Southampton’s relegation could see them opt to cash in on their star talent, but he would still not come cheap for Spurs, as they are not the only club closely following the England Under-21 international’s progress.

Rodrygo – Real Madrid

Son’s departure could see Spurs launch an ambitious move for Rodrygo from Real Madrid after the Brazilian star has fallen out of favour with his new manager, Xabi Alonso.

A move for the Brazilian would cost Spurs dearly, but would see the Lilywhites replace an outgoing superstar with an equally global name to compensate for their loss.

The two-time UEFA Champions League winner would not only bring an element of stardust to North London but would also display a massive statement of intent from Daniel Levy and Spurs as a whole.

Rodgyro is equally capable of playing on both flanks, and despite being 24 years old, would bring a wealth of top-level experience with him that would elevate Frank’s chances of succeeding in N17.

Tottenham have been chasing a new midfielder all summer transfer window.

With Yves Bissouma looking likely to leave Spurs in the coming weeks, a new centre-midfielder is highly important.

Tottenham have been linked with Joao Palhinha, who has struggled at Bayern Munich. However, the 30-year-old is keen to stay at the German club.

Therefore, reports have now suggested Tottenham are now tracking Kobbie Mainoo, who faces an uncertain future at Manchester United.

Daniel Levy has Mainoo opportunity at Tottenham

Tottenham’s victory over Manchester United in the Europa League final was important for several factors.

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However, one of the most important was no doubt Spurs’ qualification into the Champions League, and the financial benefits the competition brings.

Now, this could help Tottenham in their pursuit of Mainoo.

According to Dean Saunders via talkSPORT (24 July), the England international is currently asking for a low wage compared to the rest of the Red Devils squad in contract negotiations.

He said: “I know his agent, and he’s not asking for too much money when compared to other players.”

Saunders went on to say: “He’d get into Tottenham’s team, but I’d stay at Man United if I was him. He’s still got lots to learn.”

Given this fact, Daniel Levy has the opportunity to try and lure Mainoo to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

If Spurs offer more money than Man United are offering, the 20-year-old may be tempted to move to the North London club.

This should not be an issue given Tottenham’s financial strength compared to the Red Devils.

There would be the small matter of a transfer fee, of course, but United are fully aware Mainoo’s valuation will only decrease in the coming months unless he renews his contract.

Mainoo would be a smart signing from Thomas Frank

As Spurs’ search for a new midfielder goes on, they will not find many better players than Mainoo this summer.

The youngster has the potential to become one of Tottenham’s best players, and the fact that he is English will help with registration rules.

Going forward, Mainoo could easily be in Spurs’ starting XI for over a decade, and would finally resolve their ongoing issues in midfielder.

With the 20-year-old entering the final two years of his contract, Tottenham may be able to get the Man United star at a discount.

Therefore, Thomas Frank has to now make a move for Mainoo before the Red Devils pin him down to a new contract.

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

Tottenham have been linked with an ambitious move for Adam Wharton this summer.

Wharton has been on the club’s radar since he climbed through the ranks at Blackburn Rovers.

However, Spurs placed greater emphasis on Ashley Phillips, who was signed from Rovers in 2022. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace snapped up Wharton for an initial fee of £18million.

But the North London club could return to the charge this summer as they weigh up a move for the midfielder.

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Tottenham to be put off by £100m Wharton fee

Reports have indicated that Palace are hoping to obtain £100m for Wharton if he is sold this summer.

The Englishman has become a key player at Selhurst Park in recent years, and the Eagles want their money’s worth.

While Tottenham like the player, Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes that they are not prepared to pay the required fee.

“I just can’t see Crystal Palace selling everybody in one summer,” Wenham said.

“I’m sure they want to keep Wharton, so quite rightly, they’re within their right to turn around and ask for £100m. It’s up to the club that has the player. They’ve got him on a nice long contract, took a chance on him and gave him Premier League football. If they say he’s £100m, that’s the price.

“I don’t see Tottenham spending £100m on Wharton this summer. They might like him, they might admire him. I imagine that’s all true because he’s a very good player, but I just don’t see Tottenham paying the money that will be required to get him out of Palace this summer.”

Tottenham do not need Wharton this summer

A fee of £100m for any player seems excessive, but to drop a sum on one a team does not need is bad business.

It is undeniable that Wharton would improve Thomas Frank’s squad. He is proficient in both attack and defence and can control games from the midfield.

However, with Morgan Gibbs-White still a target, and several creative midfielders in the squad, Wharton would be a luxury buy.

Indeed, Frank will likely line up with either Mohammed Kudus or Gibbs-White alongside James Maddison, Pape Matar Sarr or Dejan Kulusevski in the midfield. This would see Rodrigo Bentancur slip into a defensive midfield role.

As a result, the Dane seems to have one too many midfielders at his disposal, and the addition of Wharton could be difficult to justify for £100m

Tottenham might have to start looking elsewhere after the latest Morgan Gibbs-White update.

Spurs’ pursuit of Gibbs-White has taken another twist after the midfielder reportedly joined up with Nottingham Forest at their pre-season training camp in Portugal, having originally not travelled with the Reds.

The Englishman looked set to join Tottenham before Forest blocked a move, claiming the transfer approach made by the Lilywhites was an illegal one.

And with Gibbs-White seemingly not willing to force a move, Daniel Levy might need to line up an alternative.

Xavi Simons – RB Leipzig

Xavi Simons has been linked to Tottenham since the summer transfer window opened.

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The Dutchman is considered one of the best young midfielders in Europe and was named in the 2023/24 Bundesliga Team of the Season during his first year with RB Leipzig.

It is believed that Simons is aching for a move to the Premier League, and playing in the UEFA Champions League is a priority.

With Tottenham set to return to Europe’s elite competition after their UEFA Europa League win last season, the North London club could be an attractive option.

However, they will need to act fast, with Chelsea looking to agree a deal for Simons.

Eberechi Eze – Crystal Palace

Tottenham were battling it out with rival Arsenal for Eberechi Eze, but later turned their attention to Gibbs-White.

But with the Forest midfielder currently tied down at Forest, Spurs could reignite their interest in Eze.

The Palace star stunned spectators when he netted the winner against Manchester City in the FA Cup final last season. However, with the Eagles awaiting the verdict on their Europa League demotion appeal, Eze could be looking for a little more security.

With Premier League-proven Thomas Frank at the helm and Champions League football to be played, the Englishman could push for a move across London this summer.

Adam Wharton – Crystal Palace

Eze is not the only Palace midfielder that has piqued Spurs’ attention, with the club considering a move for Adam Wharton.

Wharton is happy to spend another year with Palace, with Liverpool also linked [The Sun].

However, Levy could be tempted to invest in the Englishman this summer if he misses out on Gibbs-White.

The Reds have already spent big in the summer market, with Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike two of the names added to their ranks. As a result, it is unlikely that they will splash the club on another high-end midfielder in the coming months.

This would give the Lilywhites the perfect opportunity to swoop in and sign Wharton.

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

Daniel Levy has overseen plenty of transfer failures during his Tottenham tenure.

Levy has faced criticism over his movement in the summer market from Tottenham fans.

It was believed that the 63-year-old was picking things up after signing Mohammed Kudus from West Ham. However, the chairman’s approach has slowed in recent days, which has unsettled supporters.

Now, instead of welcoming someone new, the Lilywhites are expected to be preparing to bid farewell to one forward after a disappointing few years.

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Tottenham to sell Bryan Gil for ‘bargain basement price’

Bryan Gil’s transfer to Tottenham has been a disaster from beginning to end since he arrived in 2021.

The forward has had several loan spells in Spain but has failed to develop to the level required to compete for regular first-team minutes at Tottenham. As a result, the Spaniard is expected to leave this summer for a disappointing price.

As reported by Ben Jacobs via Last Word on Spurs (17 July), Gil’s valuation is below £10million. Besiktas and Celta Vigo are two clubs said to have shown an interest.

After several failed loan moves, Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes that Tottenham should have taken Brighton up on their previous loan offer.

“Gil will go for a bargain basement price, he’s been a disaster,” Wenham said.

“We would have been better off keeping Erik Lamela and just giving Sevilla the £25m. We could have used Lamela a lot over the last five years instead of these constant disappointing loans back to Spain for Gil, which never led to a permanent departure.

“I do think he’s been handled badly as well. He should have been on loan with a Championship club, rather than going back to Spain, to acclimatise to English football, but that obviously didn’t happen.

“I think there was once something with Brighton as well. I mean that would have been a fantastic move for him, and more should have been done to force that move through.”

Levy must learn from his mistakes

Levy must learn from how he handled Gil’s development and improve his methods.

The Tottenham Chairman is already showing signs of doing so, with Ashley Phillips rejoining Stoke City.

However, with several youngsters unlikely to break into the first team next season, Levy should find loans which satisfy them all.

Tottenham suffered an injury crisis at the back last season, which derailed their campaign, but are set to avoid a repeat.

Centre-backs Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero were often injured, and a lack of depth saw Archie Gray and Ben Davies fill in, with disastrous results.

Tottenham have been eager to strengthen the depth at the back as a result, with lessons clearly learned from last season, and there are now plenty of new faces.

Kevin Danso, Luka Vuskovic and Kota Takai will add additional depth at centre-back, but this now means that one promising talent is almost certain to depart permanently.

Ashley Phillips rejoins Stoke City on loan

Young defender Ashley Phillips was a standout performer during a loan spell at Stoke in the Championship last season and is a promising talent for the future.

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The 20-year-old made 39 appearances for the Potters and was one of their best players throughout the campaign.

It was reported at the start of the summer that Thomas Frank was keen on giving Phillips a chance, but his stance has now changed, with the centre-back rejoining Stoke on another loan.

While there is no option to buy in his loan deal, Phillips’ move back to the Championship indicates that he has no future at Tottenham, especially with the increased competition at centre-back.

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Phillips is likely to leave Tottenham next year

Even if Phillips performs well again in the Championship, he will return to Spurs as the potential sixth-choice centre-back next year and will need to keep playing regularly.

More loan spells will only devalue the player, whose contract runs until 2028, and next year, he will have two years left and no chance of regular action.

Tottenham’s recruitment of Takai, and the decisions to keep Danso and Vuskovic have all meant there is no room for Phillips even in the long term, but the hope will be that he can leave for a substantial fee if he impresses again next season.

Vuskovic, in particular, is an outstanding young prospect, but his presence has meant that Phillips will likely be sacrificed.