FootballFanCast

Given Tottenham Hotspur’s lowly Premier League finish of 15th place last season, investment is massively needed from the hierarchy during the off-season.

Thomas Frank has been appointed as the Lilywhites’ new boss this summer and has been tasked with the job of transforming their fortunes within England’s top-flight.

Owner Daniel Levy has previously stated his desire to build the club into title contenders, but if he is to see the club at the top of the table, he will need to put his hand in his pocket.

Whilst Mohammed Kudus has already made the move to North London, further additions are to be expected with various areas of the pitch needing investment.

Numerous players have been on their radar in recent weeks, leaving the recruitment team to make the right choice as to who would be the right fit for Frank’s side.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer

Morgan Gibbs-White is a player who looked set on a move to join Spurs after they triggered the £60m release clause within his contract at Nottingham Forest.

However, the Reds have blocked any move, subsequently claiming that the Lilywhites have made an illegal approach for the England international’s signature.

He’s not the only player who’s been in their sights over recent days, with Bayern Munich talent Joao Palhinha a player of interest, according to journalist Florian Plettenberg.

The Sky Sports journalist claimed that Frank’s side have been showing interest in the 30-year-old star, but no concrete offer has yet been made for his services.

He also states that his agent is aware of the interest in his signature, looking almost certain to depart the Bundesliga side after making just six starts last season after joining in a £47m deal from Fulham.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be their answer to Rice

Declan Rice has been one of the Premier League’s leading midfield talents over recent years, but unfortunately for Spurs fans, he’s been plying his trade for North London rivals Arsenal.

The 26-year-old cost a staggering £105m back in the summer of 2023, a figure that to this day remains the highest fee paid for an Englishman in the history of football.

He’s proved his worth despite the mammoth transfer fee, registering 35 combined goals and assists for the Gunners in the last two seasons - a simply staggering feat for a deep-lying midfielder.

Spurs fans must wish they had their own version of the England international, but they could be about to land just that with a move for Palhinha during the current window.

The Bayern star has been labelled as a similar player to Rice by FBref, showcasing how highly rated his, despite his lack of action in Germany in recent months.

When comparing the pair’s respective stats, the Portuguese international has managed to outperform him in key areas, potentially making him the missing piece in Frank’s midfield puzzle.

Palhinha, who’s been labelled “sensational” by former footballer Steve Sidwell, completed more of the passes he attempted, whilst finding more of his teammates in the final third - having the tools to add further creativity to the side.

His dominance without the ball is just as impressive, winning more tackles and making more blocks, adding the needed defensive presence needed within the Lilywhites’ midfield.

The former Fulham star has been just as dominant in the air as he has on the ground, winning more of the aerial battles he’s entered, potentially adding an added threat in the opposition’s penalty area.

It’s unclear if a deal for Palhinha would be a temporary or permanent addition, but it’s evident that his addition to the side would be a sensational piece of business.

Should he move and match the levels produced by Rice in England’s top-flight, it would be one of the signings of the window, helping Frank in his quest for success in North London.

Gareth Bale is a player who will forever be etched in Tottenham Hotspur history after capturing the hearts of the fanbase during his two separate spells at the club.

The Welshman notched 228 appearances for the Lilywhites, 194 of which came during his first spell, which saw him shift from a left-back to a winger - a move that would catapult him to stardom.

He scored 71 times for the club, including 26 during his final year in the side, before he completed a then-world-record deal of £85m to join Real Madrid in the summer of 2013.

The now-retired star would return to North London back in 2020/21, but only on a temporary basis, going on to score 16 times in his 34 appearances and once again give the supporters various moments to shout about.

A couple of years on, boss Thomas Frank must wish he had a talent of that calibre in the side, subsequently delving into the transfer market to add to his current squad.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new attackers this summer

Southampton forward Tyler Dibling has been once again linked with a move to join Spurs this window, potentially following in Bale’s footsteps in joining the side from the Saints.

Any deal for the teenager would certainly be an expensive investment from the hierarchy, with Will Still’s side currently demanding £55m for his signature this summer.

However, he’s not the only forward currently on their radar, with the Lilywhites firmly in the race to land Real Madrid star Rodrygo, according to Spanish outlet AS.

They claim that the Lilywhites have held informal talks with the 24-year-old’s representatives over a move to North London, but could face competition from Arsenal and Liverpool during the off-season.

It also states that the LaLiga outfit are willing to offload the Brazilian international this summer, that’s only if any side meets his current asking price of €90m (£79m).

Why Spurs’ £71m target would be the best winger since Bale

Many players have tried to fill the void in wide areas since Bale’s departure, most notably Lucas Moura, who spent five years as a Spurs player between 2018 and 2023.

The Brazilian’s best moment undoubtedly came in the Champions League semi-final back in 2018/19, where he netted a hat-trick against Ajax to secure the Lilywhites’ place in the final against Liverpool.

Brennan Johnson is another player who’s tried to emulate the success of his compatriot, costing a whopping £47.5m back in the summer of 2023, joining the club from Nottingham Forest.

Whilst the 24-year-old scored the winner in the Europa League final back in May, he’s often struggled to match the expectations placed upon him given the nature of the transfer fee.

However, the club could be about to land a new star winger in the form of Rodrygo, with the Brazilian having all the tools to be a huge success in the Premier League.

When delving into his stats from the recent campaign, the forward massively thrived in LaLiga and ranked highly within the other players in the division.

Rodrygo, who’s been labelled “world-class” by analyst Ben Mattinson, notched 11 combined goals and assists, handing Frank’s side the added threat he craves in the final third.

He also completed 4.1 progressive carries per 90, a figure that ranks him within the top 2% of all players within Spain’s top-flight, showcasing the threat he possesses with the ball at his feet.

The Brazilian also registered 2.3 successful take-ons last campaign, always liking to get the ball into dangerous areas, subsequently allowing other players in North London to thrive in 2025/26.

It would be another mammoth deal completed by their hierarchy, but it’s one that would make the side a true force to be reckoned with during Frank’s first year at the helm.

If he can get anywhere near the levels produced by Bale during his own spell at the Lilywhites, it would be a sensational signing and one that could set the side up for further success.

Tottenham are continuing their plans to back Thomas Frank in the transfer market ahead of his first full season in charge, amid the drama surrounding Morgan Gibbs-White and his potential move to N17.

Spurs remain in pursuit of the England international, despite Nottingham Forest's threat of legal action against both the Lilywhites and his agent (Sky Sports), with reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano confirming that Gibbs-White is their priority as of now.

Tottenham appeared set to sign the 25-year-old nearly a fortnight ago after a round of quick-fire talks, even going as far as to book a medical for Gibbs-White on July 11, but Forest's legal objections have seriously delayed his switch to London.

There have even been some reports that this Forest reaction is down to Tottenham hijacking Man City's part-exchange deal for Gibbs-White involving James McAtee (Football Insider), with Evangelos Mariniakis and co furious at the attacker's last-gasp U-turn.

While this theory is yet to be backed up elsewhere, the consensus is that Spurs are still hopeful of eventually sealing a deal for Gibbs-White, but in the meantime, chairman Daniel Levy and co have other targets in mind as well.

Tottenham are keen on a new holding midfielder, amid repeated links to Bayern Munich's Joao Palhinha, and there is a belief that Frank's side are also looking at signing another centre-back too (The Telegraph).

Brentford star Yoane Wissa, who scored 20 goals in all competitions under Frank last season, also remains a top target.

Spurs face stiff competition from Newcastle United for the Congolese's services, with the Magpies already having a £25 million offer turned down for him in the last few days.

There is an expectation that Eddie Howe's side will go back in with an improved offer, but we cannot discount Tottenham, as explained by reliable journalist Ben Jacobs.

Yoane Wissa in London for crunch talks over Brentford future

Jacobs, taking to X, claims that Wissa is now in London for talks over his Brentford future after departing their pre-season training camp in Portugal.

The reporter says that while Newcastle are confident they can sign the 28-year-old, Wissa is also open to joining Tottenham, so there remains a distinct possibility that Frank could reunite with his ex-star striker at Hotspur Way.

Spurs' boss has already praised Wissa's "nose for goals", and if signed, question marks will surely surround the long-term future of Richarlison, who's attracting rumoured interest from a host of clubs abroad.

“I think they are super players," said Frank about Wissa and his former Brentford side in 2023.

Tottenham are reportedly now favourites to sign a "remarkable" defender this summer, with Thomas Frank's side earmarking the addition of a centre-half as one of their key priorities before deadline day on September 1.

After Spurs triggered the obligation to buy clause in Kevin Danso's deal, Frank currently boasts around six centre-backs in his squad right now - even if that number does include youngsters like Ashley Phillips and Luka Vuskovic.

Despite this, The Telegraph and journalist Matt Law confirmed earlier this week that Tottenham are still looking into signing another central defender - with Crystal Palace stalwart Marc Guehi remaining on their agenda after Daniel Levy failed with an audacious £70 million bid for him in January.

While the focus right now appears to be finally concluding a deal for Nottingham Forest playmaker Morgan Gibbs-White, amid an ongoing legal dispute with Nuno Espirito Santo's men over the transfer, it appears a new defender is also in Tottenham's sights.

"Tottenham remain confident about their chances of signing the player. But, obviously, now this is a legal topic. They need to have discussions directly with Nottingham Forest to find the solution," said Fabrizio Romano on the GMS Market Madness podcast a few days ago.

"Of course, it changes the timing of the deal. Tottenham's perfect plan was probably to sign Kudus and Gibbs-White in 24 or 48 hours. It is now going to take a bit longer, but they remain intent on signing the player. That is still their plan, so let's see how it continues on the legal side. But, for sure, Tottenham still want Morgan Gibbs-White."

In terms of the defensive addition Levy could make, a lot of noise has surrounded Bournemouth star Illia Zabarnyi, despite PSG's lengthy talks for the Ukranian which stretch back for weeks (Fabrizio Romano).

He was a mainstay in Andoni Iraola's backline last season, helping the Cherries to their best-ever Premier League points tally, and Bournemouth will undoubtedly be reluctant to lose another star defender after Dean Huijsen.

While media sources suggest that Zabarnyi has already agreed personal terms with PSG, a new report from journalist Pete O'Rourke states that Spurs are definitely not out of the race just yet.

Tottenham emerge as "the frontrunners" to sign Illia Zabarnyi

According to O'Rourke, in a piece for Football Insider, Tottenham "have now emerged as the frontrunners" to sign Zabarnyi ahead of PSG - with Spurs said to be advancing a move for the 22-year-old.

The Lilywhites could now hijack PSG's deal for Zabarnyi, it would seem, but Levy will have to fork out north of £60 million, as Bournemouth attempt to make a handsome profit off the £24 million they originally paid for him.

Interestingly, Sky Italia reporter Gianluca Di Marzio claimed last week that Spurs are prepared to do just that, so this could be one to keep an eye on in the coming days.

In terms of Zabarnyi's obvious quality, there is little doubt he'd upgrade Frank's current options, with pundit Jamie Redknapp suggesting the Euro 2024 star didn't quite get the credit he deserved last season.

"He is probably the most underrated player," said Redknapp.

"I also spoke with Ukrainian legend Andriy Shevchenko, and he mentioned that Illia has everything it takes to reach the next level. Everyone is talking about Dean Huijsen. Yes, he is a fantastic young player, but Zabarnyi plays very aggressively in defense as well. I was genuinely impressed by him. He shows remarkable calmness on the pitch."

Tottenham Hotspur are set for a huge transfer window this summer, especially if they are to avoid a repeat of the 2024/25 campaign in the Premier League.

The Lilywhites ended the previous season in 15th place, an unacceptable finish given the stature of the club, resulting in Ange Postecoglou losing his job in North London.

Thomas Frank was appointed as his successor, with the board already handing him the funds for the £55m transfer of Mohammed Kudus from city rivals West Ham United.

Further ambition has already been shown by triggering Morgan Gibbs-White’s release clause in his Nottingham Forest contract, but a deal now appears to be on hold at present.

Despite the aforementioned deal now not progressing, the same can’t be said for multiple other transfers, with work being conducted for further additions.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer

Conor Gallagher has once again emerged on Spurs’ radar this window, after previously trying to land the former Chelsea talent during last summer’s market.

However, despite moving to Atlético Madrid less than a year ago, he could once again be on the move, as contact has been made between the Lilywhites and the Spanish club.

He’s not the only player who’s currently on the club’s shortlist this window, with Bournemouth star Illia Zabarnyi also under consideration, according to journalist Duncan Castles.

He claims that Frank’s side have already made a club-record bid for the Ukrainian centre-back, who made 36 appearances in the Premier League last campaign.

However, Castles also confirmed that PSG are also firmly in the race for the 22-year-old’s signature, which could spark a potential bidding war for his services in the near future.

Why Spurs’ latest target is a bigger talent than Vuskovic

Over the last couple of years, Spurs have put a real focus on investing in youth talent to try and keep one eye on future success as well as their current ambitions within the Premier League.

One player who they’ve recruited in such a focus is centre-back Luca Vuskovic, after he agreed to move to Spurs back in September 2023 for a reported £12m from Hajduk Split before two loan spells at Radomiak Radom and Westerlo.

He spent the 2024/25 season on loan at the latter, starring in Belgium, registering seven goals across all competitions before returning to the Lilywhites for pre-season this summer.

He’s already wasted no time in making his mark in Frank’s side, notching a goal and an assist in the victory over League One side Reading on Saturday afternoon.

It remains unclear whether he will stay in North London for 2025/26 or if he will be sent out on loan again, but he may struggle to get into the side should the hierarchy complete a deal for Zabarnyi.

When comparing their respective figures from the recent season, the Cherries star has dominated the youngster, undoubtedly making him a bigger talent for the club in the immediate future.

Zabarnyi, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by journalist Josh Wyatt, has completed more passes and completed more passes into the final third per 90, having the tools to play out from the back if needed.

He also won more tackles per 90, along with more interceptions made 90, handing the side the defensive quality needed to strengthen the backline in 2025/26.

The youngster’s dominance across all areas of the pitch is further highlighted in his tally of take-ons completed, and more clearances made - with his all-round talents fitting perfectly into Frank’s ethos.

£60m may appear to be a mammoth figure for Zabarnyi’s services, it’s one that could prove to be worth every penny should he carry his talents over from the south coast.

Whilst Vuskovic is evidently a hugely talented player, he may have to wait his time to make an impact in North London, especially if a deal is completed for the Ukrainian’s services this window.

After triggering Morgan Gibbs-White’s release clause nearly two weeks ago, almost every Tottenham Hotspur fan would’ve expected a deal to be completed by now.

However, when dealing with Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis, a deal was never going to be straightforward, but no one could’ve predicted what has happened since.

The Reds have claimed that Thomas Frank’s side made an illegal approach for his signature, resulting in his secret release clause now becoming public.

It’s unclear whether Forest are set to report the club over a potential deal, with all contact between the two sides now ceased as a result of the approach that was made for his signature.

Given the recent delay in a move for the England international, other targets are subsequently being considered in North London, with multiple names entering the mix in the past few days.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new signings this summer

Ardon Jashari has emerged as a surprise option for Spurs in the midfield department as of late, with the Swiss international set to depart Club Brugge this summer.

The Belgian outfit are said to be demanding a fee in the region of £32m for his signature this window, but could face stiff competition from Italian side AC Milan for his signature.

However, another name has entered the mix, with Frank’s side now turning their attention to a deal to sign Atlético Madrid star Conor Gallagher, according to TBR Football.

The report claims that the Lilywhites have made contact with the Spanish outfit over a potential move for the 25-year-old midfielder during the summer window.

It also states they could be open to offloading the Englishman should they receive an acceptable offer after paying £33m for his signature 12 months ago.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be an upgrade on Sarr

Pape Matar Sarr was a key member of Spurs’ midfield department during the 2024/25 campaign, ending the season with a staggering 55 appearances across all competitions.

The Senegalese international has already made over 100 appearances for the Lilywhites after making his debut for the club back in the 2022/23 season.

He has the potential to become a club legend in North London should he continue on such a trajectory, having time to develop further given his tender age of just 22.

Such a deal to land him a couple of years ago reflects the sensational business the hierarchy have conducted in recent years, now looking a bargain given his £14.6m transfer fee.

However, he may struggle to keep hold of his starting role in the 2025/26 campaign should they complete a deal for Gallagher, with the Englishman having the potential to replace him in the side.

When comparing their stats from the recent season, the Atlético star managed to better him in various areas, highlighting how much of a brilliant addition he would be to Frank’s side this summer.

Gallagher, who’s been labelled a “monster” by one analyst, registered more combined goals and assists, offering the side an added goalscoring threat despite his deep-lying role.

He also completed more of the passes he attempted, with more of which going into the final third, showcasing the talent he possesses with the ball at his feet.

However, his defensive talents are just as impressive, winning more tackles per 90 and achieving a higher success rate in regaining possession - potentially being the perfect box-to-box option in Frank’s midfield department.

Whilst it’s unclear how much the LaLiga outfit will be demanding for his services this summer, it’s evident that he would be an upgrade on the options currently at the manager’s disposal.

If he can replicate such form in North London, it would be a fantastic piece of business, subsequently allowing the club to move past the current saga over a deal for Gibbs-White.

Tottenham have their eyes on other transfer targets, amid their ongoing legal dispute over Nottingham Forest playmaker Morgan Gibbs-White.

According to Fabrizio Romano, a lot of Spurs' focus right now is on finalising the deal for Gibbs-White, despite Forest placing many hurdles for chairman Daniel Levy to leapfrog in pursuit of his signature.

The Lilywhites and Gibbs-White's agent have been threatened with action in a letter written by Forest (Sky Sports), as Nuno Espirito Santo's side are unhappy with the manner they obtained information about Gibbs-White's £60 million release clause.

Forest also accused Tottenham of effectively 'tapping up' the 25-year-old (Ben Jacobs), and if they're found guilty of these alleged offences, talkSPORT recently suggested that Spurs face a fine or even a transfer ban.

Forest even adopted a 'not for sale' stance recently, but despite all of this, Tottenham remain hopeful they can sign Gibbs-White and make the England international their fourth signing of the summer after Kota Takai, Mohammed Kudus and Mathys Tel.

Terms won't be an issue, as the former Wolves star was even scheduled to have a medical at Hotspur Way on July 11 before Forest blocked the move.

It is simply a case of waiting for Forest to step aside before Tottenham can complete this move, but they could end up having to pay an even higher transfer fee above the original £60 million as compensation (Stefan Borson).

In the meantime, away from Gibbs-White, there are suggestions that Spurs want to sign another centre-back this summer, but it is unclear whether that ties into Cristian Romero's uncertain long-term future (Matt Law).

Tottenham are also targeting a new number six, with Yves Bissouma's exit rumoured as a likely possibility before deadline day.

Bayern Munich tell Joao Palhinha he can leave after Tottenham talks

GiveMeSport reported earlier this week that Tottenham recently held discussions with Bayern Munich over signing Joao Palhinha, where they were told he'll be allowed to leave on a permanent deal.

TBR Football and journalist Graeme Bailey now have more information on the 30-year-old's potential switch to N17.

It is believed that Bayern have made it "clear" to Palhinha he can leave this summer, having endured an unfortunate debut campaign at the Allianz Arena last season, and Vincent Kompany's side want around £30 million to green-light his exit.

This comes after Tottenham also held talks with Palhinha via his representatives, which was relayed in this latest update from TBR Football, but Thomas Frank's side are currently £10 million off their asking price.

Spurs want to get a deal for Palhinha done at £20 million, so there is still plenty of work to be done here, but the experienced ex-Premier League midfielder could be worth a solid effort.

"Joao is a tackling machine," said former Fulham teammate Harrison Reed to Sky Sports.

"My job is to get pressure on the ball. It is about complementing his style and forcing the ball into areas where we can win it. My tackle numbers are not very high but in terms of pressuring the ball that is where I affect the game more."

Tottenham have been told one key condition to sign a player who's been identified by manager Thomas Frank as a summer target, according to a new report.

Spurs are fresh off the back of their first pre-season game against Reading, with new signing Mohammed Kudus enjoying an impressive cameo on Saturday as the Lilywhites ran out 2-0 winners against the League One side.

Goals from Will Lankshear and new arrival Luka Vuskovic secured Frank the perfect start to his new managerial chapter, with the Dane getting a first look at his star-studded squad.

He could yet see more illustrious names added to it, as Tottenham maintain their pursuit of Morgan Gibbs-White despite Nottingham Forest's threat of legal action. Fabrizio Romano confirms that sealing a deal for Gibbs-White is their priority right now, speaking via his YouTube channel, but that doesn't mean Daniel Levy won't have other plates spinning in the background.

Yves Bissouma has been regularly linked with a move away from north London before deadline day on September 1, and José Mourinho's Fenerbahçe are believed to be prime contenders for the Mali international (Yağız Sabuncuoğlu).

With Spurs competing in the Champions League next season, Frank will need a ready-made replacement for Bissouma, considering the hot and cold midfielder played 28 games for them in the Premier League alone last term.

According to recent reports, Bayern Munich ace and former Fulham favourite Joao Palhinha is among the targets on Tottenham's shortlist to potentially step into Bissouma's shoes for 2025/2026.

The Portugal international finally sealed what was a long-awaited move to Bavaria last summer, signing for around £47 million, but his debut season at the Allianz Arena was marred by injury struggles, suspensions, illness and a subsequent lack of game time under Vincent Kompany.

As a result, reports suggest the 30-year-old could call time on his stay in the Bundesliga already, and Spurs have been told the requirements to seal a deal.

Tottenham told Joao Palhinha condition after opening Bayern Munich talks

According to GiveMeSport, Tottenham have held club-to-club discussions with Bayern over Palhinha, and Kompany's side are adamant that Levy will only be able to sign him on a permanent deal.

Any offers for a loan will not be accepted as Bayern attempt to get Palhinha's £166,000-per-week wages off the books for good, but Frank has personally identified the player as a target, so there appears to be a real willingness from Spurs to move for him.

Bayern are said to have made it clear that Tottenham will need to table a "big-money" bid for Palhinha if they stand a chance of signing him this summer, but this report doesn't disclose the exact amount they'd be looking for.

In any case, if Spurs decide to press forward, there is reason to believe he would thrive under Frank.

Palhinha was famed for his tackling and robustness in midfield during his spell at Craven Cottage, indicating why Spurs are so keen, with former teammate Tom Cairney even calling him a "breath of fresh air".

"If you lose the ball, he smells blood," Cairney said in a glowing endorsement.

"He’s probably one of the best I've ever seen off the ball, in terms of getting back, recovering and trying to win back the ball. He doesn't just put pressure on them, he goes back to win the ball and does the tackle.

"It's amazing to watch sometimes. I think the fans have taken to him. I think he's been a breath of fresh air in the Premier League."

Tottenham Hotspur could hijack Newcastle United's move for a "sensational" midfielder, as they are now keen on securing his signature, according to a report.

Spurs looking to bolster midfield options

One of the most talked-about summer transfer sagas up to this point has been Tottenham's controversial pursuit of Morgan Gibbs-White, with Nottingham Forest left unhappy by the approach, given that rival clubs shouldn't have been aware of the £60m release clause.

However, Fabrizio Romano has revealed Spurs are hopeful of being able to get the deal over the line, with the transfer expert saying: "Now, Tottenham remain confident about their chances of signing the player. But, obviously, now this is a legal topic. They need to have discussions directly with Nottingham Forest to find the solution.

"Of course, it changes the timing of the deal. Tottenham's perfect plan was probably to sign Kudus and Gibbs-White in 24 or 48 hours. It is now going to take a bit longer, but they remain intent on signing the player. That is still their plan."

Gibbs-White has been earmarked as a major target in the attacking midfield area, but the Lilywhites are also keen to strengthen in a deeper midfield role, with Bayern Munich's Joao Palhinha and Juventus' Douglas Luiz among the potential targets.

In a recent report from The Boot Room, it has also been revealed that Tottenham are keen on signing Atletico Madrid's Conor Gallagher, who could be set to leave the La Liga club this summer, given that regular game time may not be on offer next season.

Thomas Frank is said to be a fan of Gallagher, suggesting the manager could green-light a move, with Spurs looking to bring in a new number 6 this summer, but there could be competition for his signature.

Newcastle are currently leading the race for the midfielder, with Eddie Howe also believed to be a big fan, but the north Londoners' interest suggests they may look to hijack their Premier League rivals.

"Sensational" Gallagher could be solid signing for Spurs

The former Chelsea man has already proven himself in the Premier League, being lauded for his "sensational" attitude by reporter John Cross during his time with the Blues, where his attacking talents were regularly on display.

The £50m-rated maestro amassed five goals and seven assists in the Premier League during the 2023-24 campaign, and he has since gone on to impress Atlético Madrid manager Diego Simeone from a defensive point of view.

Simeone said: "It's never easy for players coming from England to adapt to the Spanish championship, to the language ... He has competed very well in different places and in positions where he doesn't feel more comfortable.

"He will evolve, he has room for growth. He is very intense in offensive and defensive play, he brings a lot to us."

So far, this summer is shaping up rather well for Tottenham Hotspur.

While unpopular with some fans, Daniel Levy and Co were quick to get rid of Ange Postecoglou and bring in Thomas Frank, in turn giving him plenty of time to get his feet under the table.

Moreover, Mathys Tel's loan was made permanent for a reasonable sum of £30m; the exciting Luka Vuskovic has finally joined the squad, and the exceptionally gifted Mohammed Kudus was signed for around £55m.

However, the North Londoners are yet to complete the complicated signing of Morgan Gibbs-White, and while they are likely to do so, they've also been linked with another star who would be an even better addition to the squad.

Spurs target international ace who'd be a better signing than Gibbs-White

It was mid-way through this month, a day after signing Kudus, that Spurs reportedly activated the £60m release clause in Gibbs-White's Nottingham Forest contract.

However, since then, the Tricky Trees have blocked the move and have accused both the Lilywhites and the player's representatives of breaking the rules when approaching him over the move, and have even threatened legal action.

However, it does feel like this is a deal that will eventually happen, and there have even been reports of Levy and Co preparing an improved £65m offer to make it so.

The 25-year-old would be a great addition to Frank's team, of that there is no doubt, but it now appears that the club are eyeing another player who would be an even better signing.

At least that is according to a recent report from AfricaFoot, which claims that Spurs are one of several teams interested in Evann Guessand.

In fact, the report reveals that, while they've slowed somewhat recently, the Lilywhites are in talks with OGC Nice about the striker.

The other teams keen on the dangerous forward include Newcastle United, Fenerbahçe and Wolverhampton Wanderers, and while it's not clear exactly how much he'd cost, he is valued at €25m on Transfermarkt, which is about £22m.

Guessand might not be as big a name as Gibbs-White, but not only would he be worth signing, but he'd be a better signing for Spurs than Gibbs-White.

Why Guessand would be a better signing than Gibbs-White

So, the first thing to say, and this is important, is that Spurs should sign both players, as Gibbs-White is undeniably talented and would surely improve Frank's squad.

However, at this moment in time, Guessand would be the better signing, and the reason is simply that the North Londoners need another striker far more than they need another attacking midfielder.

For example, James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski were among the club's best players last season, with the former scoring 12 goals and providing 11 assists in 45 games, and the latter tallying ten goals and 11 assists in 50 appearances.

In contrast, the former Wolves ace managed to score seven goals and provide ten assists in 38 appearances, so while he would certainly be a great addition to the team, he'd have to outperform the incredible midfielders to get into his preferred position.

In contrast, the Nice star would realistically only have to contend with Dominic Solanke for game time, especially if Richarlison returns to Brazil, and based on their output last season, we reckon he'd be great competition for the Englishman.

For example, in 42 appearances, totalling 3075 minutes, the "electric" Ivorian international, as dubbed by U23 scout Antonio Mango, scored 13 goals and provided ten assists, which comes out to a brilliant average of a goal involvement every 1.82 games, or every 133.69 minutes.

The former Bournemouth man, on the other hand, scored 16 goals and provided eight assists in 45 appearances, totalling 3393 minutes, which actually comes out to a slightly worse average of a goal involvement every 1.87 games, or every 141.37.

Add to that the fact he's still just 24 years old and capable of playing off the right as well, and it's easy to see the Ajaccio-born star, who The Athletic's Alex Barker dubbed "one of the best young attackers" around, getting plenty of game time next season and beyond.

Ultimately, both Gibbs-White and Guessand would be excellent signings for Spurs, but we see the latter playing far more for the club next season, and therefore, he'd be the better addition.