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Plenty has changed since Dominic Solanke last played a competitive game of football for Tottenham.

Solanke has struggled with injury issues at Tottenham this season, seeing him restricted to just 80 minutes of action.

The most recent of the England international’s appearances came in Tottenham’s 2-0 win over Manchester City on 23 August.

At that stage in the campaign, Tottenham were looking good under new boss Thomas Frank, while Liverpool were themselves flying high in a strong start to their title defence.

However, the Reds have gone massively off the boil since then. Indeed, Liverpool make the trip to Tottenham on Saturday sitting seventh in the table.

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A number of key players have dropped off, most notably the likes of Mohamed Salah and skipper Virgil van Dijk.

Dominic Solanke names Virgil van Dijk as toughest ever opponent

Van Dijk is one of the greatest defenders in Premier League history, of that there is no doubt.

Speaking this week, Solanke told Sport Bible that Van Dijk is the toughest opponent he has ever come up against.

While that may be the case, Van Dijk is no longer the force he was once. That is why Frank needs to ignore those comments and ensure the Dutchman is targeted this weekend.

As per FBref, Van Dijk’s defensive stat have plummeted between last season and this season.

He is averaging 0.63 tackles per 90 minutes this campaign compared to 1.03 last time out, while his tackles won have dropped from 0.54 to 0.31.

Van Dijk’s interceptions are also down (1.51 vs 0.88) and he is also making more errors this season (0.13 vs 0.11).

The biggest drop-off has been in tackles and interceptions combined, which stood at a whopping 2.54 last season but now reads 1.50.

Rather than being scared of Van Dijk, Tottenham’s attackers need to get right in his face and expose the Netherlands international like more and more opponents are.

How does Van Dijk compare to Cristian Romero?

Cristian Romero has been superb at times for Tottenham this season, and his defensive figures now put Van Dijk to shame.

For example, Romero outshines Van Dijk for tackles won (1.23 vs 0.31) and blocks (1.56 vs 1.06). In terms of interceptions and tackles combined, they are worlds apart – 4.10 and 1.50 respectively.

The bottom line is that Van Dijk is no longer a world-class talent and, had Arne Slot had other options to call upon, it may well be that the centre-back was watching from the stands like Salah.

Liverpool and Van Dijk are very much there for the taking this weekend in what could be a result that helps turn around Spurs’ campaign.

Tottenham are monitoring the potential signing of Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni.

Thomas Frank has openly admitted the need for additions ahead of the January transfer window, and that could be exactly what he’s about to get.

Tottenham are ready to spend big in the market, and things are starting to take shape with rumoured exits and incomings.

Fabio Paratici returned to Tottenham as sporting director this season after serving a ban related to accounting issues from his time at Juventus.

The Italian figure could now use his well-known connections to bring Bastoni to N17 next month.

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Tottenham could hold high ground in Alessandro Bastoni chase

Cristian Romero’s future at Tottenham has come under question in recent times, and the Lilywhites could be preparing for his departure.

Tottenham wouldn’t have to look much further than Bastoni for a capable Romero replacement, as the Inter Milan ace is one of the best in the world.

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, Paratici has recommended the signing of Bastoni to Spurs, and is a great admirer of the centre-back.

The possibility of coming to the Premier League appeals to the 26-year-old, but he is currently content with life in Italy.

Tottenham face competition from London rivals Chelsea for the defender’s signature, but Spurs could hold a clear advantage in the form of Paratici.

The sporting director knows the Serie A inside out and is bound to have valuable connections from his time in Italy, which could aid Tottenham’s pursuit of Bastoni.

Bastoni beats Arsenal star to world-class praise

Bastoni could be one of the biggest statement signings made by Tottenham in recent history, and it would send a message to the Premier League.

The towering centre-half has contributed to many years of success at Inter Milan, and now holds a Transfermarkt value of £70m.

Earlier this year, Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger compared Arsenal’s Riccardo Calafiori to Bastoni, saying the latter has impressed him more.

Rudiger said, as quoted by Tribuna: “Bastoni has been constantly improving and has become a true leader at Inter. I knew Calafiori from our Roma days when he was in the youth team.

“Now he is at Arsenal and has a great future ahead of him, but at the moment, Bastoni is, without a doubt, the best defender in Italy.”

Time will tell for Tottenham, but a move for Bastoni would certainly be groundbreaking.

Brennan Johnson looks more likely than ever to leave Tottenham now.

Crystal Palace have been linked to Johnson this week as it seems the attacker has no place in Thomas Frank‘s plans.

The Englishman was Tottenham’s top goalscorer last season, and fans have already voiced their disappointment over his potential exit.

However, supporters may have to face the facts, because when considering the latest transfer links, it becomes crystal clear that Tottenham have already planned past Johnson’s exit.

Said El Mala has all the makings of Brennan Johnson replacement

Tottenham have been linked to Said El Mala from Bundesliga side FC Koln in recent days, with the winger in preference of moving to the Premier League.

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El Mala is a tricky winger of a similar stature to Johnson at 6,0″, but perhaps with better technical ability.

The teenager is in fine form right now, and Frank may see him as an immediate upgrade on his current winger.

El Mala has terrific ball-striking ability with either foot, therefore can be an option for Frank at left or right wing.

The German predominantly plays on the left wing, and due to Mohammed Kudus’ success on the right, it makes Johnson’s departure seem even more inevitable.

But it’s not only El Mala who has emerged as a top attacking target for Spurs ahead of the January transfer window.

Tottenham heavily linked with Antoine Semenyo

Tottenham have a strong interest in Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, and have perhaps been linked with the wide man more than any other player in the past few weeks.

Semenyo has mainly featured at left-wing for the Cherries this campaign and added another goal to his growing tally against Manchester United on Monday.

The 25-year-old could be a huge upgrade on Johnson, but the links are becoming far too telling that the latter will leave Tottenham in January.

To add to this, there are two forwards who Spurs have looked at, who could be brought in should deals for Semenyo and El Mala not materialise.

Tottenham have lengthy list of Johnson’s successors

Spurs have been tipped for a move to sign Yan Diomande of RB Leipzig, as well as star winger Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge.

Both of which are wide forwards, and considering Spurs also need a striker, this clearly shows that Frank is desperate for a winger, or maybe multiple.

Tottenham could go about their business a little more discretely, though, as it would be so like the Lilywhites to have their targets taken right in front of them.

Regardless of what happens from here on out, Johnson will forever be remembered as the hero who brought silverware back to N17.

Thomas Frank has to take action after Tottenham’s woeful display against Nottingham Forest last Sunday.

Guglielmo Vicario had another afternoon to forget for Spurs as his side were beaten 3-0 at the City Ground, leaving them 11th in the Premier League.

Frank is under huge sack pressure at Tottenham as a result of the embarrassing defeat, with supporters quickly turning on the Dane.

Tottenham welcome Liverpool to North London this Saturday, and changes will have to be made if there is any chance of a return to winning ways.

Thomas Frank to make brutal Archie Gray decision

While Vicario must shoulder some of the blame for Nottingham Forest’s opener last weekend, Archie Gray was also very much at fault.

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The young midfielder failed to control the ball in his own box, allowing Ibrahim Sangare to nip in and feed Callum Hudson-Odoi, who couldn’t miss from three yards out.

With Tottenham lacking defensive stability against Forest, Frank could bring Palhinha back into the starting lineup, leaving Gray on the bench after his mistake.

It would be brutal on the youngster, but Frank needs to think about himself and saving his job.

Rodrigo Bentancur was another who flattered to deceive at the City Ground, which may allow Lucas Bergvall a chance in midfield.

Spurs had no creative spark against Sean Dyche’s side, so Frank will likely mix up his forward line as he searches for the right formula.

Wilson Odobert could replace Randal Kolo Muani on the left wing, with Richarlison retaining his place up front.

Thomas Frank right to give Gray a break

Some Tottenham fans were quick to defend Gray’s mistake against Forest, arguing that Vicario’s pass was wayward and left the former Leeds man exposed.

While that may be the case, the 19-year-old struggled to recover from the error, as Spurs collapsed at the City Ground.

Gray managed just 28 touches during the 59 minutes he was on the pitch, losing possession four times in total and failing to win either of his duels.

It’s fair to say that Gray has underwhelmed since his £40million move from Leeds to Tottenham in the summer of 2024.

Frank could decide to take the youngster out of the firing line for the time being, to ensure his confidence is not damaged further by another mistake against Liverpool.

Tottenham supporters are furious after the latest update regarding Brennan Johnson’s future.

Johnson could leave Tottenham in January after falling down the pecking order under Thomas Frank.

The Wales winger has started just six Premier League games so far this season, with Frank preferring the likes of Mohammed Kudus and Wilson Odobert.

Tottenham fans are less than impressed with the decision to let Johnson leave, given the Lilywhites’ current goalscoring troubles, but a potential buyer has already been revealed.

Crystal Palace eye Brennan Johnson transfer

Johnson has had a difficult time at Tottenham recently, and was jeered off the pitch by supporters during their draw with Newcastle United last month.

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Now, it is being reported by BBC Sport that Spurs are willing to listen to offers for the 24-year-old in the January transfer window.

The North London side are open to letting Johnson leave if they receive a suitable bid.

Crystal Palace are the team with the most advanced interest in the winger as things stand, but other clubs are also monitoring the situation.

Tottenham fans question Johnson decision

Johnson scored the winner for Tottenham as they lifted the Europa League trophy last season, his goal helping the North London side to a 1-0 victory over Manchester United in the final.

The Wales international was also the club’s top scorer in the 2024-25 campaign, finding the net 11 times in the Premier League and 18 times across all competitions.

Some Spurs fans were quick to point out that selling a player who has scored goals so regularly in the past might not be the smartest move.

Another Tottenham fan feels the blame lies with Frank, who has not been playing Johnson in favour of other underperforming players.

The fact that the North London side now need to find a replacement was also highlighted.

If Tottenham don’t manage to upgrade on Johnson in the January transfer window, then selling such a consistent goalscorer will most definitely be a mistake.

Brennan Johnson has found himself on the peripheryhery of the starting XI at times for Tottenham this season.

The January transfer window is just around the corner, and Tottenham look set to be active.

Tottenham are reportedly interested in signing Arsenal forward Nefeye Osazee, with the 16-year-old set to leave Arsenal without a scholarship contract.

Tottenham sporting director Johan Lange is also understood to admire Anderlecht’s Nathan De Cat.

Inter Milan midfielder Davide Frattesi has also been linked with a move to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, as Thomas Frank looks to bolster his squad this winter.

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Brennan Johnson could be on the way out as Tottenham transfer update emerges

Talk of Johnson leaving Tottenham in the near future is beginning to increase.

The 24-year-old winger’s role in Spurs’ squad has notably decreased so far this season, having been a consistent starter in the Premier League during his first two seasons in North London.

As such, the last thing Johnson needs is further competition arriving in wide areas, but that is exactly what could be about to happen in January.

As per a report from transfer reporter Ekrem Konur via X, Tottenham are monitoring the situation of Club Brugge’s star winger Christos Tzolis.

Atletico Madrid are said to be keen on the 23-year-old, while Aston Villa, West Ham, Crystal Palace, Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund are all said to be keeping tabs on developments alongside Spurs.

Brugge reportedly don’t want to sell the Greece international, though, and the former Norwich City man is contracted with the Belgian outfit until 2029.

Johnson to make inevitable Tottenham decision

At 24, Johnson is in the stage of his career where regular football is pivotal.

So, given the fact he’s seen a marked drop in that regard for Tottenham this season, he may already have one eye on a transfer exit in the near future anyway.

However, should Tzolis arrive, then that may prove to be the proverbial straw that broke the camel’s back for him at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Tottenham already have a myriad of options out wide, with the likes of Mathys Tel, Mohammed Kudus, Dejan Kulusevski, and Wilson Odobert all for company.

So, with a potential World Cup with Wales in his thinking next summer too, Johnson may well be ready to call time on his Tottenham career this winter.

Supercomputer predicts result of Tottenham vs Liverpool in Premier League clash

Thomas Frank is desperate to claim his first big win at home when Tottenham face Liverpool in the Premier League on Saturday.

Tottenham’s 2-0 away win over Man City has been the highlight of Frank‘s tenure, but he is yet to oversee a similar performance in N17.

Frank had been under pressure after an inconsistent run of form in the Premier League, with losses suffered to Chelsea and Fulham dampening the mood at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

The losses on the road to Arsenal and Nottingham Forest haven’t made his case any easier, and defeat against the Reds could turn even more fans against the Dane.

Liverpool predicted as slight favourites to beat Tottenham

Tottenham’s 2-0 win over Brentford on 6 December means they are looking to win consecutive home games in the league for the first time in Frank’s reign.

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The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has been anything but a fortress, with the Lilywhites only winning two of their eight league matches in N17.

According to Opta’s supercomputer, Tottenham are predicted to suffer another loss at home.

Spurs have lost 58.8 per cent (10/17) of their home matches this year, which is the highest they’ve recorded in Premier League history.

A positive omen for fans is that Tottenham beat Liverpool 1-0 the last time they hosted the Reds, with Dominic Solanke’s goal giving them a first-leg advantage in the Carabao Cup semi-final in January.

A lot has changed since then, and Richarlison is set to lead the line for Spurs, where he can continue his fantastic run of form.

Richarlison can continue his impressive record against Liverpool

The 28-year-old has six Premier League goals from 3.26 xG this season, and it’s undeniable that he is overperforming in front of goal.

In 16 appearances against Liverpool, Richarlison has scored four goals and registered three assists.

The Brazilian forward failed to influence any of the four meetings against the Reds last season, although he missed two of those games due to injury.

Richarlison is Tottenham’s leading South American goalscorer in the Premier League with 22 goals, and with Liverpool’s defence looking shaky at the moment, he has a great opportunity to extend his streak against Arne Slot’s side.

Either way, Frank is set to feel the heat if this prediction is anything to go by.

Tottenham offer two-year deal to French rising star

Tottenham have offered a two-year scholarship to talented right midfielder Melvyn Kabongolo.

Spurs academy has generated interest for all the right reasons in recent months, as the club are always looking to unearth the next big talent.

In November, 18-year-old goalkeeper Dylan Thompson signed his first professional contract with Tottenham after impressing in the under-18s Premier League.

Meanwhile, Northern Irish midfielder Harry Hughes was offered a scholarship at Spurs in the same month, despite being sidelined with a long-term injury.

Those behind the scenes at the Lilywhites have demonstrated their desire to give youngsters the platform to progress, and that is exactly why another scholarship will be music to the ears of fans.

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Tottenham offer Melvyn Kobongolo a two-year scholarship

According to the Lilywhite Rose on X, Tottenham have offered Melvyn Kobongolo a two-year scholarship, becoming the latest academy star to earn a place in next season’s under-18 squad.

Kabongolo has been capped by both England and France’s under-15s and has already showcased his talents at club level.

Capable of playing as a left or right winger, the teenage sensation will want to realise ambitions of eventually making the first team, and becoming a superstar for the under-18s would be an excellent start.

News of Kabongolo signing a scholarship comes after Spurs offered Oscar Sandiford a two-year scholarship in November, and he will link up with his teammate in 2026/27.

Goalkeeper Max Sievey was also offered a contract by the club on the same basis as the future continues to look bright.

How are Tottenham’s stars faring out on loan

The dream of every young player is to eventually play first-team football, and that is no different to the likes of Kabongolo and Sievey.

But first, many youth talents have to spend time out on loan, with as many as six players aged 21 and under currently playing their football away from Spurs.

Alfie Devine joined Preston North End on loan in the summer, and he’s since helped his new side establish themselves as promotion contenders with three goals and two assists in 20 appearances.

Yang Min-Hyeok has shockingly attracted the interest of Real Madrid after impressing on loan at Portsmouth, at least during October, where the 19-year-old winger scored twice and assisted once.

Meanwhile, Mikey Moore is finding his feet at Rangers after a slow start to life at Ibrox, striker Alejo Veliz has scored five times since joining Rosario Central, and 18-year-old centre-back Luka Vuskovic is starring at Hamburg.

Last but not least, Jamie Donley is struggling at Stoke City, having made just four appearances in the Championship so far.

Gary Neville and Roy Keane have made contrasting predictions for Tottenham’s clash against Liverpool on Saturday.

Tottenham beat Brentford 2-0 in their last Premier League match at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, although discontent remains among fans after the embarrassing 3-0 loss to Nottingham Forest on Sunday.

Thomas Frank is under intense pressure as Spurs sit 11th in the Premier League table after 16 matches, and fans are becoming increasingly frustrated with the style of play on show.

However, he has the perfect opportunity to ease any discontent by beating Liverpool, which would see them close the gap on the top four.

Ahead of the match, Keane demanded that Neville make a more exciting prediction for the game.

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Roy Keane expects goals in Tottenham vs Liverpool

Tottenham have won just two of their last 18 meetings with Liverpool, although Saturday’s clash could go either way, given how Arne Slot’s side have performed this season.

Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast on 18 December, Keane was disappointed with Neville’s prediction.

The ex-Man United defender said: “It probably is a 1-1 match,” before eventually claiming the Reds will win 2-1.

Keane responded by saying, “Do something a bit crazy with that,” alluding to the fact that this fixture guarantees goals, and predicting it would finish 2-1.

Tottenham versus Liverpool is the highest-scoring fixture in Premier League history, with 206 goals scored in their 66 matches.

The last three league matches between the pair have seen 21 goals, while there have been at least three goals in 14 of their last 16 Premier League meetings.

Thomas Frank should go more direct against Liverpool

Despite their struggles, Liverpool are still one of the most effective pressing teams in Europe.

Guglielmo Vicario’s abysmal mistake against Nottingham Forest made it clear that Spurs are still uncomfortable with the ball in their own half.

Tottenham’s 2-0 loss to Fulham on 29 November also showed how nervous the Italian goalkeeper looks, and there is a clear solution.

Liverpool have looked shaky from long balls, and they’ve failed to deal with direct, counter-attacking play throughout the season.

Their defending from set-pieces has been atrocious at times, and Spurs have a big area that they can exploit.

However, if they concede another self-inflicted goal early on in the match, then the atmosphere could become toxic once again in N17.

Tottenham need a statement performance to ease the pressure off Thomas Frank, and three points against Liverpool would erase some doubts over the Dane.

Spurs were comfortably beaten 3-0 by Nottingham Forest last time out, and this result left them in 11th position, four points behind fifth-place Crystal Palace.

As a result, Jamie Carragher thinks Tottenham will sack Frank if Liverpool secure all three points against them on Saturday evening.

However, if he wants to save his job in north London, then the former Brentford boss will have to make a key decision in his starting lineup.

Thomas Frank must start Joao Palhinha vs Liverpool

Spurs were all over the shop defensively at the City Ground, and Archie Gray was one of several who struggled against Forest.

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The 19-year-old started in midfield alongside Rodrigo Bentancur, while Joao Palhinha was dropped by Frank following their 3-0 win over Slavia Prague in the Champions League.

But ahead of their showdown against the Reds at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, Frank should restore Palhinha to his starting lineup, mainly for the protection he offers defensively.

Palhinha is one of the best midfielders in the top-flight at winning possession, with that attribute needed against a star-studded Liverpool attack.

The 30-year-old should arguably come into the side for Bentancur, whose form has suffered in recent months, leading to many wanting him dropped.

Jamie Carragher loves Palhinha

Spurs have an option to sign Palhinha for just £27million at the end of the season, and the Portuguese international has proven to be worth that fee, and some.

In his column for The Telegraph in October, Carragher even admitted that the Bayern Munich loanee is Tottenham’s best signing.

“The best signing under Frank so far is Joao Palhinha, a highly effective ball-winner more so than a playmaker,” Carragher said.

“In the early stages of his Spurs career, Palhinha is exactly what Frank and his new club need, and it could bring instant success.

“Going forward, there will have to be an evolution, as the pairing of Palhinha and Rodrigo Bentancur is perceived by supporters to be over-cautious in home games.”

Clearly a huge fan of Tottenham’s No.6, Carragher won’t want him to perform well this weekend.