TBR Football

Alisson Becker has played against some of the very best strikers in the world since joining Liverpool.

Indeed, Alisson has had to play against the likes of Erling Haaland, Cristiano Ronaldo and Alexander Isak in recent years in the Premier League.

Isak could be headed to Liverpool, so that spares Alisson that headache, but there are certainly a number of strikers who have been a thorn in the side of the Brazilian over the years.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Alisson has been discussing the toughest strikers to face, and he named a former Tottenham Hotspur player as one of his most frustrating opponents.

Alisson says he found Harry Kane difficult to face

Alisson was asked to name the striker he least likes to face in a one-on-one situation.

The Liverpool ace ultimately picked Kylian Mbappe, but before doing so, he spoke about how difficult it used to be to play against Harry Kane at Tottenham.

Kane is a world-class striker, so it’s not surprising to hear Alisson speak in this way.

“It’s difficult because all of them were really clinical with their finishes. I think Harry Kane was a really difficult striker to play against when we played more often against him when he was at Tottenham,” Alisson said.

“Now I would say maybe this guy, Kylian Mbappe.”

Harry Kane’s record vs Alisson Becker

Alisson says that it used to be very difficult to play against Harry Kane, but the Brazilian does have quite a good record against the England captain.

Of course, Kane has scored some goals against Alisson, that is inevitable, but his record against the Liverpool number one is rather modest.

Kane has only scored four goals in nine games against the Liverpool goalkeeper, and he hasn’t won a single match in that time.

Of course, perhaps the most famous clash between these two was the 2019 Champions League final where the striker was largely, and frustratingly, anonymous for most of the match.

Kane is now in the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich, so he doesn’t cross paths with Alisson very often, but, who knows? Perhaps these two will face off in the Champions League, or potentially even the World Cup, in the near future.

TBR Football understands that Tottenham Hotspur have offered Xavi Simons the same salary as Chelsea were offering him during their talks.

Earlier on Thursday, TBR Football revealed that Simons was keen to explore Tottenham’s offer, and Spurs have now matched Chelsea’s offer on salary.

Tottenham Hotspur have also opened talks with RB Leipzig, who are insisting that they want around £60 million for the midfielder, having already dropped down from around £69 million.

TBR Football sources claim that Spurs’ footballing department have indicated they are willing to pay that – it just depends on the make-up of the deal, but there is a real belief that there is nothing stopping this deal going through.

Exclusive: Tottenham prepared to match Chelsea’s salary offer to Xavi Simons

Tottenham are prepared to match Chelsea’s salary offer to Xavi Simons, and the player is believed to be ‘really excited’ about the prospect of joining the North London club, sources have told TBR Football chief correspondent Graeme Bailey.

Chelsea had already agreed terms with Simons, with the Blues having offered the player somewhere between £180,000-200,000-per-week.

Meanwhile, the West London club were offering him a contract which was seven to eight years long; Spurs’ offer would be a five-year deal.

The Dutch international would become one of Spurs’ highest earners, but replaces Son Heung-min, who was on around £190,000-per-week.

Tottenham have long been interested in Simons, but there was a feeling that he was out of their reach this summer, especially with Chelsea having been working to sign him.

Speaking about his situation, Bailey told TBR Football: “I’m told that Simons is really excited by Spurs and when told about them, he did not have to wait to say yes.

“Spurs could very well end up with the number 10 they thought was out of their range just a few weeks ago.”

Xavi Simons to become Tottenham’s second-highest-paid player

Simons is now set to become Tottenham’s second-highest-paid player behind only newly appointed club captain Cristian Romero.

Romero recently signed a new contract, which put him on the same wage as what Son was earning during his time in N17.

Spurs’ wage offers are often criticised, but on this occasion, they look to have agreed terms with one of their top summer targets.

This would be quite a coup for the Lilywhites, as the Dutch star is seen as one of the brightest young talents in Europe.

TBR Football can now exclusively provide the latest on Xavi Simons after Tottenham entered the race for the Dutchman.

Spurs have already missed out on Morgan Gibbs-White and Eberechi Eze as the hunt for a new central attacking midfielder proves difficult.

However, sources now confirm to TBR Football that Tottenham are starting to make progress with a move to sign Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig – after Chelsea stalled over the deal.

Exclusive: Xavi Simons keen to explore Tottenham move

Graeme Bailey – Chief Correspondent for TBR Football – can now reveal that the Netherlands international is happy to stop waiting for Chelsea and join Tottenham.

Simons was keen on a move to Chelsea after two seasons in the Bundesliga with RB Leipzig, although the Blues have made little progress when it comes to meeting the £60m valuation.

We understand this delay led his representatives to speak to other clubs, with Tottenham now interested in advancing a deal.

Simons had agreed personal terms with Chelsea, but it is understood the RB Leipzig No.10 is not prepared to wait any longer, and is willing to engage with Tottenham after becoming aware N17 is an option for him this summer.

The 22-year-old scored 11 goals and provided eight assists in 33 appearances across all competitions last season.

Simons is understood to have missed training on Thursday, although sources close to RB Leipzig are yet to confirm whether he was allowed to be absent.

Xavi Simons already has a familiar face to greet him at Tottenham

If Spurs manage to sign Simons, Micky van de Ven can help him settle down in north London.

The pair have previously played 11 games together for the Netherlands – even dating back to when they appeared for the Netherlands U21 side – so there is history between the two Dutchmen.

Simons can also speak to other Dutchmen such as Arnaut Danjuma, Steven Bergwijn and Rafael van der Vaart to see what life in Tottenham is like before making this move.

What Rafael van der Vaart has said about Xavi Simons

Speaking about Van der Vaart, the Tottenham cult hero has actually already shared his opinion on the RB Leipzig maestro.

Back in March 2023, Van der Vaart said Simons was a “world class” prospect, telling Voetbal International: “It is starting to get a bit boring that it’s (all) about him every week, but it’s nice (for the Netherlands) to have a player like that.”

“Very few players can do this in such a small space, accept, turn and shoot the ball on the bar.

“I look at the potential. How good can someone become in the future? With Xavi Simons, everything (I see) makes me very happy. Absolutely (he is a world class talent).”

Manchester City have reiterated to Tottenham and Savinho that he will not be allowed to leave this summer, TBR Football understands.

TBR Football reported on Sunday that Tottenham held fresh talks with City over Savinho and felt quietly confident about the transfer happening.

But Pep Guardiola is keen to keep Savinho, and City have decided that he will not be leaving the Etihad Stadium this summer.

TBR Football also revealed that from a financial standpoint, City were under no pressure to sell Savinho either, and with no replacement, they consider the matter closed.

Savinho left ‘unhappy’ with Man City blocking Tottenham move

However, Savinho has been left unhappy with the decision from Manchester City and made that clear to them, sources have told TBR Football chief correspondent Graeme Bailey.

The Brazilian was really keen on joining Thomas Frank’s team and is still hoping that the move can happen before Monday’s transfer deadline.

Tottenham Hotspur remain attentive to the situation and will return should they receive encouragement, but have started assessing alternative options.

Speaking about the winger’s situation, Bailey revealed: “City’s hierarchy’s stance was always the same with Savinho; they did not want him to leave. Yes, they showed an interest in Rodrygo, but it was always difficult, and they maintained their stance on Savinho.

“However, I am told that Savinho really wanted the Spurs move and still does; the window remains open until Monday, and he hopes the deal could happen.

“Spurs will remain attentive to the situation, should they get any encouragement; however, they have also made it clear to Savinho they are moving forward with other targets too.”

The North London club are now quickly running out of time to secure another left winger, with just under three days until the window slams shut.

Xavi Simons’ camp worried about Chelsea transfer falling through

One player who could become a target for Tottenham is Xavi Simons, however, his camp insists he will be joining Chelsea this summer.

But behind the scenes, there are concerns that the Blues could pull the plug on the move, with Simons having agreed personal terms with Chelsea.

Simons’ people have started doing due diligence on other options, and indeed, Spurs are one of those clubs.

The Lilywhites have always admired Simons, and if he were to become available, a move could be on the cards.

Whilst Newcastle United are searching for a new striker, Richarlison has enjoyed an excellent start to the season for Tottenham Hotspur under Thomas Frank.

Right now, Eddie Howe is almost bereft of any number nine at St James’ Park – Alexander Isak isn’t playing, Callum Wilson has left for West Ham United, and William Osula is seemingly just not fancied.

Of course, it’s a very different situation in north London, new Tottenham manager Frank is enjoying having both Richarlison and Dominic Solanke at his disposal.

Gary Lineker has praised Richarlison’s start to the season at Spurs – the Brazilian has scored two in two and he’s been leading the line well.

And even though Solanke is now back fit, Richarlison looks set to start against Bournemouth this weekend too.

Richarlison won’t be leaving Tottenham for Newcastle despite rumours

That being said, whilst speaking on the ‘Men In Blazers’ podcast, journalist Fabrizio Romano has now shared an update on Richarlison’s situation, and there was even a mention of Newcastle.

Newcastle are still trying to sign Yoane Wissa and Jorgen Strand Larsen right now, the duo remain the Magpies’ ideal pair to replace Isak and Wilson.

However, Romano admitted that he’s heard some talk of a Newcastle player being involved in a deal to sign Richarlison – rumours he wanted to quash.

Speaking on the podcast, Romano said: “Look, every summer we have rumours about Richarlison leaving. Every transfer window, January, summer, is always about that.

“But then it’s never close because the player is very happy at Tottenham and I’m hearing that Thomas Frank is also very happy with him.

“So I’m not sure he’s leaving. I also heard some rumours about a Newcastle player maybe being included in some deal. But I’m told that this is not the case.

“Richarlison is very happy at Tottenham. I see him staying and I see Tottenham signing two players up front before the end of the season, but not losing Richarlison.”

Thomas Frank has made it clear that Richarlison will stay at Spurs

In line with Romano’s words, Spurs boss Frank recently made it clear that Richarlison is fully focused on playing for Tottenham.

It’s a big year for the Brazilian ahead of the World Cup – he’d be devastated if he were not included in Carlo Ancelotti’s squad next summer

And when speaking in the run up to Spurs’ victory over Manchester City, Frank made it clear that Richarlison was a player he was keen to work with, and the feeling was reciprocated.

Speaking at his press conference, Frank said: “Day one he came in and knocked on my door and said ‘I want to stay’.

“I said good, I like you, I think you’re a good player, perfect, let’s crack on.

“He’s been working very hard, very committed, gym, on the pitch, he has trained every session. There was one game we took him out of because of the injury history.

“We know we need to be very aware of that to build him, thin layers, one step at a time, taking good decisions, do our best to try to take good decisions, but I see a very committed player.”

Tottenham Hotspur take on Bournemouth in their third game of the season.

Spurs have had a tremendous start to the new campaign. Thomas Frank’s men have won each of their first two fixtures, scoring five and conceding none.

That has pushed Tottenham to second in the Premier League table, just a place below Arsenal because of goal difference.

The next test for Frank and his side is against Bournemouth, and it will be a very interesting game.

Gary Neville and Ian Wright predict Tottenham vs Bournemouth result

Tottenham’s transfer business this summer has not gone to plan, but that hasn’t affected their performances in the first two games of the season.

Spurs were brilliant against Burnley on the opening day, and they were even better when they beat Manchester City 2-0 at the Etihad.

The clash against Bournemouth is a tricky one because Andoni Iraola’s side are capable of causing problems for any team in the country.

However, Ian Wright is convinced that Tottenham will emerge victorious.

He said on the Stick to Football podcast: “Tottenham at home, I’m going there. 3-1 Spurs. Is that too much?”

On the same show, Gary Neville revealed his prediction. He said: “Is this the week where we get a little shock with Bournemouth? Yeah, 1-1.”

A shocked Wright replied: “What? Not with Thomas Frank!”

Thomas Frank’s record against Bournemouth

There’s always a level of uncertainty when a new manager takes charge, and that was the case at Tottenham when Frank replaced Ange Postecoglou.

The Dane had never managed a club as big as Spurs before, but early signs show that he is the perfect man for the job.

The game against Bournemouth will be an interesting watch, but if history is anything to go by, Frank will have no fear about this game.

Frank is unbeaten against Bournemouth in the Premier League, and he will want to continue that record when the two sides meet on Saturday.

If Tottenham pick up another win, they will move to the top of the Premier League table – temporarily, at least.

Tottenham Hotspur continue to chase a new attacking midfield signing and could lean on Daniel Levy’s connections.

Tottenham Hotspur have enjoyed a great start to the season on the pitch, beating Burnley and Manchester City without even conceding a goal.

Off the pitch, Tottenham are left scrambling a little with the transfer deadline now just days away.

Spurs were close to signing Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace last week, lining him up as the ideal number 10 after James Maddison’s injury.

Arsenal swooped in to sign Eze, breaking Tottenham hearts with a remarkable hijack just last week.

The quest for attacking additions continues, but Como’s Nico Paz is unlikely to join Tottenham due to a buy-back clause with Real Madrid.

Daniel Levy’s connection to RB Leipzig as Tottenham Hotspur chase Xavi Simons

Tottenham will explore the market for attacking midfield signings, and Xavi Simons is one potential option.

Spurs are interested in signing Simons from RB Leipzig, though the Dutchman has been in talks with Chelsea this summer.

No deal has been struck with RB Leipzig, though, and that may pave the way for Tottenham to pounce.

The 22-year-old has hit 22 goals and 24 assists in 78 games for RB Leipzig, and Tottenham could have a route into a deal.

German newspaper Bild report that Tottenham have a strong relationship with RB Leipzig, and Daniel Levy is a key part of that.

Levy is understood to be on good terms with RB Leipzig’s supervisory board chairman, Oliver Mintzlaff, which could help Tottenham in the race for Simons.

Spurs and RB Leipzig struck a deal for Timo Werner in January 2024, and then agreed on new loan terms for the striker last summer.

A permanent deal never materialised, but Tottenham and RB Leipzig have maintained strong relations, leaving Spurs to consider using those connections to try and secure Simons.

Tottenham Hotspur must push the boat out for Xavi Simons

Chelsea have been the strongest suitor for Simons this summer, but they have failed to agree on a deal for weeks now.

Chelsea are now looking at Barcelona’s Fermin Lopez, a player who operates in similar areas to Simons.

That may give Tottenham hope of a deal, and this is one move that Spurs really should push to complete.

Spurs can offer Simons a starting role on a consistent basis, rather than joining Chelsea’s stacked options in the final third.

Tottenham have Champions League football on offer and look to be building a seriously impressive side under Thomas Frank.

Spurs really have to sell Simons on the idea of being a star player in North London, rather than just being another player at Stamford Bridge.

Levy’s relationship with Mintzlaff could open doors for Tottenham, and if Simons is interested, he should become the top target.

Chelsea and Tottenham are both jostling to sign Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig.

The Dutchman is eager to leave Germany for a shot at the Premier League this summer after two years in the Bundesliga.

TBR Football understand Simons has already agreed personal terms with Chelsea – but the Blues are yet to agree a fee with RB Leipzig.

German news outlet BILD have since added that Tottenham are trying to hijack the deal after missing out on Eberechi Eze to Arsenal.

However, Xavi Simons already has a dream club in mind, and it is neither Tottenham nor Chelsea.

Xavi Simons intends to return to Barcelona

The reliable Fabrizio Romano has previously revealed on numerous occasions that the Netherlands international hopes to return to Barcelona one day.

Simons spent nine years with Barcelona from 2010 to 2019 – joining the famous La Masia academy at the age of seven – before moving to PSG after all parties failed to agree a new contract.

While appreciative of the fact a return to Catalonia is not an option this summer, it remains a “dream” for the 22-year-old.

Romano posted earlier this summer: “Xavi Simons plans for potential summer move as concrete possibility. Premier League clubs are informed as it’s the most likely destination for fee around €75m (£64m) to RB Leipzig.

“Xavi dreams to play for Barca one day, but it’s unlikely for this summer.”

Romano also wrote for Give Me Sport: “One day, Simons would love to go back to the club after his experience in the academy as a kid.”

Spanish news outlet Mundo Deportivo have also added that Simons is “determined to make his way back to Barcelona” at some point in the future.

Therefore, whoever wins the race for his signature this summer between Chelsea and Tottenham should be wary of his underlying aspiration – it would be wise for either fanbase not to get too attached to the attacking midfielder if a move happens.

RB Leipzig are standing firm over Xavi Simons

If Chelsea and Tottenham fail to meet the asking price, RB Leipzig sound quite content to keep the man born in Amsterdam.

Marcel Schafer – Director of Football at RB Leipzig – suggested Simons will stay unless the asking price is met, telling Sky Sports: “As of today, Xavi will stay with us. We’ve always said that we make all decisions based on sporting and financial considerations, and that’s why Xavi is our player and why he played today.

“The transfer market is still open. You never know what’ll happen. I can’t guarantee that 100%. Everyone knows about his ambitions. He’s also told us that.

“There have certainly been a few exchanges in recent weeks. As we saw today, Xavi was in the starting line-up. So, there has been no agreement yet, and that’s why it will remain that way for now.”

If a move to the Premier League does materialise for Simons before the transfer deadline on Monday, it would not seem to be a long-term destination for him, with eyes on a romantic return to Barcelona.

Tottenham Hotspur have been working hard on a deal to sign Manchester City forward Savinho, but face a key hurdle to land him.

Last week, TBR Football revealed that Pep Guardiola was blocking Savinho from leaving, which has thrown the transfer into some doubt.

Following fresh talks after their 2-0 win over the former Premier League champions, Tottenham are optimistic of signing Savinho.

To assess whether Guardiola’s team could be tempted to accept a big offer for the winger for a big price, TBR Football’s football finance expert, Adam Williams, has been discussing City’s financial situation.

Exclusive: Man City under no pressure to sell Savinho to Tottenham

Williams has revealed that Manchester City are not in a position where they are under any pressure to sell Savinho.

The 21-year-old is believed to be keen on a move to Spurs, and that City would likely need to secure a replacement to let him leave.

But ultimately, the Citizens would not be selling the Brazilian international due to their financial position, which is a blow for Spurs’ hopes of landing him.

Williams told TBR Football: “From a financial perspective, City are under no pressure whatsoever to sell Savinho. They have spent a lot of money over the last two windows, yes, but they have also generated nearly £160m of profit in the last two financial years. That’s because they have sold very well.

“They had the highest player sale profit in the Premier League in 2023-24. They will be up there again when the accounts for 2024-25 are released.

“Historically, they have relied on funding from the owners, but that’s not really the case anymore – not on the football side of the business, at least. So whether or not they sell Savinho will come down to their valuation of the player relative to his importance in the squad. If they don’t have a replacement lined up, then that value increases.”

Tottenham would need to make a ‘massively outsized offer’ for Savinho

To now tempt them into selling Savinho without a replacement lined up, Tottenham Hotspur would likely need to make a ‘massively outsized offer’.

Tottenham are willing to offer over £60m for Savinho, but reports have suggested that City value him closer to £70m.

“Equally, if they got a massively outsized offer, they would probably accept. That’s what has made them great player traders, after all. They have been fantastic opportunists. They obviously have the high card in any negotiations with Tottenham, which doesn’t really suit Daniel Levy’s style either,” added Williams.

“Savinho is only 21 and still has four years left on his deal too, so he’s probably going to retain his value to City as an asset if he stays at the club. He could well end up at Spurs, but it will be on City’s terms if so.”

TBR Football understands that Yves Bissouma has agreed to join Turkish giants Galatasaray, having seen a possible move to West Ham United fail to come to fruition.

As TBR Football revealed earlier this month, Tottenham were working hard to move Bissouma, and now they have found an option for him.

Thomas Frank left Bissouma out of the Super Cup squad after the midfielder reported late for training on one too many occasions.

The 28-year-old is now set to join the Turkish club on loan with an obligation to buy next summer, handing Spurs’ transfer plans a big boost.

Exclusive: Tottenham offered Yves Bissouma in exchange for Lucas Paqueta

On Sunday, TBR Football revealed that West Ham was an option for Yves Bissouma, and the Hammers were very keen on the Malian.

Sources have now informed TBR Football’s chief correspondent, Graeme Bailey, that Tottenham and the Hammers discussed a blockbuster loan swap involving Lucas Paqueta.

Earlier this month, the two clubs held talks over what would have been a straight loan swap between the pair, but talks didn’t progress to the finer details.

Now, Bissouma, who cost Tottenham £25m, has agreed to join Galatasaray, where he will move on loan, and the move includes an obligation to buy.

In terms of Paqueta, Spurs are watching his situation, but as it stands, there are no plans to follow up on a deal for the Brazilian.

Tottenham signed Mohammed Kudus from the East London club earlier this summer, so taking another one of their stars could be tricky.

Lucas Paqueta could be the perfect option for Thomas Frank

Frank has been keen to sign an all-action midfielder for the number ten role, with Morgan Gibbs-White having been the player he targeted first.

Eventually, Gibbs-White signed a new contract with Nottingham Forest, which has left Spurs scrambling ever since.

But, Paqueta could be a great alternative to the England international given his ability to fill several different roles in the middle of the park.

The Brazilian is known for his flair and ball-carrying ability, but he also does a lot of work off the ball, which Frank would love.

Pape Matar Sarr has currently been playing in the number ten role, but Paqueta could be the ideal fit for that role.