tottenhamhotspurnews.com

James Maddison has had to endure a difficult time at Tottenham over the last few months as his injury record has once again come under scrutiny.

The influential midfielder was ruled out of the Europa League final with a knee problem, and he has suffered yet another issue in the latter stages of Spurs’ pre-season campaign.

Maddison was stretchered off in Tottenham’s game against Newcastle on 3 August, and he was later seen leaving the stadium on crutches after full-time.

The Englishman was only a matter of minutes into his return to action following the injury from May, but he could now be looking at another lengthy period spent on the sidelines.

This article includes exclusive comment from former Tottenham scout Bryan King.

MORE SPURS STORIES

Tottenham have ‘question mark’ over Maddison after fresh injury

Maddison could now be looking at another lengthy lay-off at Spurs.

The Lilywhites are yet to reveal the true extent of the injury, but it certainly appears to be a major concern, given the reaction that it has received from Thomas Frank.

It has been suggested that the worst case scenario for the 28-year-old could be that his latest injury is an ACL rupture, which would likely leave him sitting on the sidelines for at least the next nine months.

Ex-Spurs scout Bryan King – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes that another prolonged period on the sidelines will leave the N17 outfit with a crucial decision to make on Maddison’s future.

“It puts a question mark over Maddison,” King said.

“He’s been training for two or three months to get himself back, just to be on the pitch for a few minutes and be back to square one again.

“He’s under contract, he’s got to get fit now and then Spurs have got to see whether he’s going to be part of their future or not.

“It certainly appeared to be the same knee, and if it is, he could be another six or eight weeks before he’s back.

“It looked like a fairly simple challenge, but if it has disturbed the ligament, or the ACL, then it’s going to be a long time for him.”

Maddison injury is a huge blow for Frank

Maddison has been a hugely important figure for Spurs over the last few years when he has been able to stay fit.

The former Leicester man is one of the Premier League’s most exciting playmakers, and his likely absence for the opening stages of the season, at least, will be a big blow for Frank.

The new boss will be desperate to get his reign off to the strongest possible start, and the England star would have been a central part of that, even if he was perhaps not ready to start games straight away.

Instead, the Dane now faces the prospect of potentially several months without one of his most high-quality options.

Tottenham’s squad is strong enough to have capable cover already, but there can be no getting around the fact that this is an issue that Frank didn’t need.

Destiny Udogie has emerged as a surprise candidate for a potential departure from Tottenham in the last few weeks.

The Italian has already developed into a top-quality left-back during his time in N17, so speculation surrounding a potential summer exit has come as a shock to many.

Udogie’s long-term future has been up in the air at Spurs recently, and it would be a major blow to Thomas Frank if he were to leave anytime soon.

The Dane’s main focus so far has been on recruiting new faces, and the last thing that he will want is to lose one of his most consistent performers.

This article includes exclusive comment from former Tottenham scout Bryan King.

MORE SPURS STORIES

Spurs to set £50million Udogie demand after AC Milan scare

Tottenham endured a scare regarding Udogie’s future recently, as AC Milan made a move to try and snatch the 22-year-old away from them.

The Serie A giants made contact with the North Londoners to discuss the availability of their star, but ultimately opted to sign Brighton’s Pervis Estupinian instead.

However, if he continues to develop on his current trajectory, Milan’s advances will surely be the first of many that the Lilywhites have to encounter.

Ex-Spurs scout Bryan King – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes that Daniel Levy and Co. should not even entertain the idea of selling Udogie for a fee below £50million.

“I definitely wouldn’t sell him (Udogie),” King said.

“When he’s fit, he’s a big asset to Tottenham. If I were Tottenham, I certainly wouldn’t want to lose a player of that quality.

“He’s certainly one of the better left-backs in the Premier League when he’s fit. If you want somebody of that calibre, he’s going to cost you £50m minimum, given what’s being branded about today for players.

“I wouldn’t entertain the idea of selling him.”

Udogie will be key for Tottenham once again

Udogie’s pre-season for the Lilywhites has been disrupted by an injury, but he should be just as important as ever before when he does return to the fold.

Frank must try and combine the most promising elements of last year’s team with high-quality new additions, and the defender certainly falls into the former bracket.

He has turned in consistently strong performances for Spurs during his two-year stint with the club, and there is a noticeable drop-off on the left side when he isn’t in the team.

Udogie may ultimately miss the opening few games of the Premier League season, but getting him back to full fitness will be crucial to the fortunes of Frank’s charges.

Tottenham are expected to sign a new attacking midfielder before the summer window closes.

The Lilywhites have already spent £55million to bring in Mohammed Kudus from West Ham, and were expected to secure the signing of Morgan Gibbs-White, before the Englishman signed a new contract at Nottingham Forest.

But James Maddison’s injury has renewed focus on the position for transfer chiefs at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with the England international still waiting to hear the extent of his absence.

Spurs completed their second major signing of the summer last week, with Joao Palhinha arriving on a season-long loan from Bayern Munich.

Jack Grealish could present a perfect opportunity for Tottenham

Jack Grealish is expected to leave Manchester City this summer, with several Premier League clubs interested in the midfielder.

MORE SPURS STORIES

The Englishman was often left out of Pep Guardiola’s team last season, making just 20 appearances in the Premier League.

Grealish remains the Cityzens’ record signing, joining for £100m from Aston Villa in 2021, but the 28-year-old has never been able to recreate the form he showed at his former club.

In the 2020/21 season, the midfielder scored 6 goals and provided 12 assists in the Premier League, but has added just six goals to that tally throughout his next 94 league appearances for City.

Grealish needs a fresh start, and there are several clubs hoping to provide it this summer.

Everton are among them, with David Ornstein (6 August) reporting that the Toffees have opened talks with City over a season-long loan.

The deal is described as complicated, however, with no guarantee that David Moyes’ side will be able to get it over the line.

That could provide the perfect opportunity for Spurs to enter the discussions.

Daniel Levy should make an effort to sign Grealish

Any club looking to sign Grealish this summer is not hoping to sign the player who has spent the past four years intermittently playing on the wing for Guardiola.

They are hoping to sign the dynamic, exciting midfielder who attracted a British-record fee after starring for Villa.

If Thomas Frank could prompt that player to once again emerge out of Grealish, Daniel Levy would be making an extremely wise decision by signing him.

The 28-year-old would provide cover in Maddison’s absence, but could well develop into a first-choice option for the Dane on the wing or indeed, in midfield.

Tynan Thompson is a name Tottenham fans will be hearing a lot more about in the coming weeks.

Thompson is considered one of the more promising talents in the Tottenham academy.

He has shone since making his debut for the Under-18s in April 2024 against Fulham and went on to make 27 more appearances for the side last season.

Now, the electric winger has the opportunity to establish himself at the Lilywhites after impressing manager Thomas Frank.

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

MORE SPURS STORIES

Thompson could start for the Under-21s next season

If Spurs supporters were unfamiliar with Thompson before, they will surely remember his name after his cameo against Wycombe at Hotspur Way (26 July).

The youngster burst onto the pitch when Tottenham needed a goal and provided an assist to gift Pape Matar Sarr his second goal of the afternoon. While the pre-season friendly ended in a 2-2 draw, Thompson was one of the key takeaways from the game.

While he could challenge a few in the first team, Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes his next objective is to start for the Under-21s.

“I think his goal for this season will be to become a starter for the Under-21s,” Wenham said.

“I think we’re seeing that already in the preseason games. He was in the Under-18s last year, and he was one of their best players. I expect him to be one of the best players for the Under-21s this year as well.

“So, he just needs to carry on what he’s doing. He’s doing really well. I know the coaches at Tottenham really like him.”

Thompson could replace Son Heung-min

After almost a decade in North London, Son Heung-min has left Spurs to join LAFC.

There was not a dry eye in the house when he received a guard of honour from his teammates in their pre-season game against Newcastle (3 August). However, the question remains of who will occupy the left wing.

Mathys Tel and Wilson Odobert are the likely choices, with the latter gaining traction in the past couple of weeks. However, if they fail to get the job done, Thompson could become a viable option.

Frank calling him up and playing him during pre-season indicates that he is already on the manager’s radar. And his performances during the period did not fail to impress the Dane.

Therefore, Thompson is a name most should not forget anytime soon.

Luka Vuskovic is expected to leave Tottenham this month despite arriving earlier in the window.

Vuskovic has made headlines this summer after his debut in Spurs’ 2-0 win against Reading at the Select Car Leasing Stadium (16 July) stunned spectators.

The defender was substituted on for the second half and provided a goal and an assist to win the pre-season fixture for Tottenham. However, speculation has still arisen over a potential departure this summer.

And with several exits seen in this month alone, there are fears that Vuskovic will soon follow.

Tottenham open to straight loan for Vuskovic

George Abbott and Josh Donley were the latest young talents to leave Tottenham on loan on Wednesday (6 August). The dynamic duo will see out the next season at Wycombe and Stoke City, respectively.

MORE SPURS STORIES

This comes after reports surfaced that Spurs have authorised eight players to be loaned out this summer. To the surprise and concern of Tottenham fans, Vuskovic was named on the list.

The Croatian is considered a potential world-class talent among supporters, and most were eager to see him light up the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium next season. However, the latest news could be enough to placate worries for now.

As reported by Football London (6 August), clubs interested in signing Vuskovic permanently have been told in no uncertain terms that Spurs will only accept a straight loan.

It is clear that the defender has the potential to become one of the best in the Premier League, and the club’s decision reflects that.

Vuskovic could benefit from a Championship loan

Vuskovic could benefit from a loan spell, even if it is the last thing that some fans would have wanted.

While he has shown promise during Spurs’ pre-season friendlies, the Croatian has yet to spend a season in England. As a result, he could struggle to adapt to the pace of the Premier League off the bat.

Hence, a loan move to a Championship club could be the correct decision. He is bound to receive regular minutes and will be able to become accustomed to the pace of English football.

But for this to be worthwhile, a Championship loan should be the only destination for the defender. The gap between the first and second division is small enough for him to be Premier League-ready for the following season.

Meanwhile, a loan abroad would defeat the purpose of preparing for life in England. Therefore, Tottenham must study all loan options carefully before deciding where Vuskovic plays next season.

Tottenham could see another player follow in Jamie Donley and George Abbott’s footsteps and leave North London this summer.

While Tottenham fans would prefer to see more arrivals, Daniel Levy is having a productive summer in terms of departures.

Donley and Abbott join Son Heung-min as some of the players who have left Hotspur Way over the past week. However, the Tottenham Chairman is not expected to stop here, with another player soon to be checked off the list.

Yang Min-heyok could be next to leave Tottenham on loan

Donley and Abbott have left Tottenham to join Stoke City and Wycombe Wanderers on season-long loans, respectively.

Both players have impressed at Spurs, with Abbott starting for Thomas Frank during Spurs’ 2-2 draw against Wycombe at Hotspur Way (26 July). Given how the 19-year-old took control in midfield, it is no wonder the Blues were keen to sign him.

MORE SPURS STORIES

Tottenham have been keen to secure loans for their youth, with this duo following Mikey Moore and Tyrese Hall, whose departures were announced over the last week.

However, the club’s objective is far from complete, and Yang Min-hyeok could be the next to leave for the season.

Yang is one of eight players for whom the club have authorised loans for this summer. Luka Vuskovic is another who makes the list, but that has not gone down all too well among Spurs supporters.

The forward spent the second half of the 2024/25 season on loan at QPR, where he scored two goals and provided one assist in 14 Championship appearances. Given the success of his previous loan move, Tottenham could be tempted to send him to England’s second tier once again.

Yang is a promising player

Before last week, Tottenham fans’ understanding of Yang and his ability was minimal. While some tuned into his games last season, others were no doubt waiting to see what he could do in a Spurs shirt.

Frank has given him that chance during pre-season, and he made an impression on spectators during his cameo in the 1-1 draw against Newcastle United in South Korea (3 August).

Despite not having the minutes to fully express himself, Yang demonstrated a directness which Spurs lacked in large parts during the game. This, combined with his technical skill and take-on ability, has given fans a lot to be excited about.

Therefore, Yang is a player who could get supporters off their feet during his time in North London.

Daniel Levy has been keen to shift some dead weight at Tottenham in time for the new season.

The Tottenham Chairman is eager to get the squad ready for Thomas Frank before the Premier League commences.

This has seen several players leave Hotspur Way, including Son Heung-min. However, Levy is not done yet, with Richarlison’s exit expected before the forthcoming season begins.

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

Tottenham’s final chance to move Richarlison on

Richarlison is expected to leave Tottenham this summer, with clubs in Italy and Turkey linked with the forward.

MORE SPURS STORIES

Among his inconsistent performances on the pitch since his big-money switch from Everton, injuries have played a huge role in his fate. Last season, the Brazilian scored five goals and provided two assists in 24 appearances.

Not only is this level of output abysmal for a star forward at Spurs, but 24 games in a team which reached the UEFA Europa League final is testament to how much of an issue his injuries have been.

As a result, Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes that Tottenham will part ways with Richarlison this summer.

“If you said to me that he’s going to be fit and available for all 50-plus games we will hopefully play next season, I’d say absolutely keep him around,” Wenham said.

“But I’m also aware that history tells me you can’t do that. And at the times when, unfortunately, Dominic Solanke or whoever over the last year has been injured, we turn to the bench and he’s not there. For a variety of reasons, he’s not there.

“He’s only got two years left on his contract. Therefore, I think this summer is Tottenham’s last chance to move him on.”

Tottenham need to sign a Richarlison replacement

If Richarlison departs North London this summer, Tottenham will need to sign a replacement striker.

Mohammed Kudus is a good start. The former West Ham star can play as a centre-forward as well as a right winger and midfielder.

But with squad depth in mind, the club will need to recruit a pure striker before the window closes. Solanke and Kudus cannot hold down the fort alone, while Mathys Tel is more comfortable on the left.

As a result, it would not be a surprise to see Tottenham in the market for another striker if Richarlison leaves Hotspur Way.

Brennan Johnson has struggled to put his best foot forward at Tottenham these past couple of weeks.

The right winger was deployed on the left wing during Spurs’ goalless draw against Luton Town at Kenilworth Road (26 July). However, other than a few lively spells during the first half, his performance lacked in several departments.

As a result, his position in Thomas Frank’s team has been greatly speculated in recent weeks. And with a new talent on the block, Johnson may need to concede his spot at Tottenham.

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

Mohammed Kudus is a top-five Tottenham player

Mohammed Kudus has made an instant impact for Frank since signing for Tottenham from West Ham earlier this summer.

MORE SPURS STORIES

From his physical prowess in duels to his technical skill on the wings, the winger has been one of the biggest highlights from the Lilywhites’ pre-season thus far.

As a result, Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes that he is already one of the best players Spurs have to offer.

“Kudus is significantly better than I thought he was,” Wenham said

“I think he’s already in our top five best players. Kudus is an extremely good signing. I think he’s a massive upgrade on Johnson. That’s no disrespect to Johnson, because he scores a lot of goals, and scoring goals is what football is all about.

“But Kudus brings so much to the team. He’s got that ability like Moussa Dembele to pick up the ball in tight areas, dribble past two or three people, and he either makes something happen or wins a foul. He looks like a phenomenal signing. Therefore, I’m delighted with that.”

Johnson could still be useful at Tottenham

The Welshman’s excellent movement and finishing have rarely been questioned at Tottenham.

However, his ability to take on his man and dribble has. This has often caused fans to hope for a better alternative that gets them off their feet.

As a result, his use has often been underrated among supporters. While Johnson’s approach may not be the most aesthetically pleasing, it gets the job done.

His ability to sniff out goals and crash the box is one of the reasons Spurs were crowned UEFA Europa League winners last season. Therefore, there is no doubt that his skills could be beneficial for Tottenham in Europe once again next season.

Brennan Johnson could find himself in a difficult situation at Tottenham in the coming months.

It seems almost ludicrous that there are conversations about Johnson facing the chopping block at Spurs.

The right winger finished last season as the top scorer in North London and netted the winning goal during the UEFA Europa League final.

However, with a changing of the guard comes a manager with new ideas and plans for the future. And there is every chance that Johnson may not be a factor.

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

MORE SPURS STORIES

Johnson has little to worry about at Tottenham

The Welshman’s pre-season form has fuelled speculation about his future at Tottenham.

Mohammed Kudus has hit the ground running and seems to be Thomas Frank’s first choice for the right wing. This would push Johnson out onto the left, but Wilson Odobert could rival his spot.

However, Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes Johnson does not have too much to worry about as it stands.

“I think Johnson’s got a lot of credit in the bank,” Wenham said.

“We’ve got to remember that Frank tried to bring Johnson to Brentford. It’s a big squad. I know we’ve all got our best XI.

“But there’s also a realisation that we get a lot of injuries and we play a lot of games and we’ve got stoppages in games where your hamstrings and muscles go colder, then you’re asked to warm them up again and perform at a high level, there’s going to be injuries all the time.

“For me, I don’t think he should be worried at all, he counts as homegrown as well, and can play any of the front three positions if needed. Therefore, I think we’ll certainly be keeping Johnson around.”

Johnson could improve on the left

Healthy competition at Tottenham could be the best thing that could happen to Johnson.

The winger has acknowledged some of the faults in his game, such as his one-on-one ability, and being forced onto the left wing could encourage him to improve his overall play.

Indeed, Johnson will need to work ten times harder to succeed in a different position. As a result, fans could see a greater hunger in the Welshman over the next few months.

Tottenham have seen their transfer window become awash with links to exciting players so far this summer.

Thomas Frank looks set to be well-backed by Daniel Levy, as the Lilywhites have consistently been linked with several big-money moves, on top of the business that they have already done.

Rodrygo is the latest star to be linked with a move to Spurs, with an offer from the North Londoners already on the table for the Real Madrid star.

The new boss will have been keen to overhaul the squad following a dismal domestic campaign last time out, and it looks as though he will continue to receive new additions.

This article includes exclusive comment from former Tottenham scout Bryan King.

MORE SPURS STORIES

Mitrovic to be ‘a danger’ for Spurs as £26m deal eyed

Aleksandar Mitrovic is another player who has been linked with a move to Tottenham over the last few days.

The N17 outfit could be set for a battle with the likes of Manchester United to secure the 30-year-old’s signature, with Al-Hilal thought to be expecting a fee of around £26million for him.

The Serbian frontman will be no stranger to the Spurs faithful, having previously enjoyed stints in the Premier League with Newcastle and Fulham, where he was prolific across a five-year spell.

Mitrovic plays the game on the edge, and his frustration can get the better of him at times, as he is capable of producing the odd moment of madness.

However, ex-Spurs scout Bryan King – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes that he could be a major threat for Spurs, although his arrival may unsettle the strikers already at the club.

“I think he (Mitrovic) is a good player,” King said.

“When he’s in the right frame of mind, he’s a danger. He was a big danger when he was at Fulham; he scored goals, and he’s done it in the Premier League.

“He’s still playing for Serbia, and he’s still a threat when he plays, at any level.

“Spurs have got Richarlison, you’ve got Solanke and potentially now Mitrovic. So somebody’s not going to be very happy, are they?”

Mitrovic could be a gamble worth taking for Tottenham

Richarlison’s possible exit means that Tottenham are likely to need a new striker this summer, and Mitrovic could be an excellent option for them.

He seemingly wouldn’t cost an extortionate fee, and he already has a proven track record of finding the back of the net in the Premier League.

The Serbian has been equally prolific in Saudi Arabia, which shows he has maintained his previous Fulham form, despite the undoubted drop off in level.

His previous disciplinary record provides an extra element for Frank and Co. to consider before going ahead with any potential deal, but it could be worthwhile for them to gamble on the 30-year-old keeping his cool, in order to land a player of such threat.

Mitrovic is a player who wears his heart on his sleeve and gives everything for the cause, and he could be the perfect man to lead the line for Frank’s new-look side next term.