FootballFanCast

Tottenham Hotspur are poised to wave goodbye to a key player this summer, and it would be a blow to manager Thomas Frank as the Dane gears up for his first full campaign in charge.

Spurs are in the Far East right now on a pre-season tour of Asia, before returning to Europe for a clash against Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena.

Frank is getting a good look at his new squad, who've just taken on Arsenal in the first ever north London derby played overseas, but off the field, chairman Daniel Levy and technical director Johan Lange are planning to reinforce the squad with new signings.

Specifically, Tottenham are working on an alternative to Morgan Gibbs-White after missing out on the Englishman in truly bizarre fashion.

Spurs were ready to trigger Gibbs-White's £60m release clause and even booked a medical for the playmaker nearly three weeks ago (BBC), but Evangelos Marinakis blocked the transfer, threatened legal action and tied him down with a new £150,000-per-week deal.

A new number 10 is imperative, amid reports that Tottenham are not completely averse to selling James Maddison after a stop-start season (Ben Jacobs).

Spurs have also been linked with an ambitious move for Real Madrid star Rodrygo this week, as club legend Son Heung-min edges ever closer to ending his 10-year stay in north London.

The South Korea star has etched his name into Lilywhites folklore with 173 goals and 101 assists, not to mention a once-devastating partnership with Harry Kane, since his £22 million move from Bayer Leverkusen a decade ago.

However, with just one year remaining on his contract as a 33-year-old, his memorable spell could be drawing to a close, and Los Angeles FC are offering him a route out to the MLS.

GiveMeSport reported earlier this week that Son is close to agreeing personal terms with LAFC, and now CaughtOffside have provided another update.

Son rejects "lucrative" Saudi offer as talks advance with LAFC

According to their information, Son rejected a "lucrative" offer from Saudi Arabia to leave Tottenham earlier this summer.

LAFC are also now in advanced negotiations over the "sensational" signing of Son, on both the club and player side this time, but the move won't be completed until after their pre-season friendly against Newcastle in Seoul for commercial reasons.

Talks have apparently accelerated in the last few days whilst entering a "critical" phase, so if all goes to plan, these next few days could be Son's last in London.

This also comes despite Frank publicly suggesting the winger could stay.

“I think first and foremost, Son’s legacy here is remarkable. He’s been a fantastic player for Tottenham, he is a fantastic player for Tottenham,” Frank said about Son in a recent press conference.

“I see a player that can play a very good role here next season. He’s come in [for pre-season], very good mindset, trained very hard, pushed the players. So I’m excited about it.”

Tottenham are actively pursuing more new summer signings before deadline day on September 1, as new manager Thomas Frank gears up for his first-ever campaign in charge of a 'big six' Premier League side.

So far, Spurs' only major high-profile deal comes in the form of a £55 million move for Mohammed Kudus, and chairman Daniel Levy will be very keen to ensure the Ghanaian isn't their sole highlight of the window.

The Lilywhites were intent on completing a blockbuster £115 million double deal for both Kudus and Morgan Gibbs-White at one point, but Nottingham Forest blocked the latter's move to N17, threatened legal action and convinced him to pen a brand-new £150,000-per-week deal at the City Ground.

After this shock turn of events over the last fortnight, Spurs are back to square one in pursuit of another star attacker who can inject some proven creativity into Frank's side.

However, as one door closes, another one opens in the form of Real Madrid star Rodrygo - who England star Jude Bellingham called their most "underrated" player.

The versatile Brazil international, who can play on both wings and as a centre-forward when needed, could leave the Bernabeu this summer with his future looking uncertain under new manager Xabi Alonso.

Rodrygo is yet to make a final decision as of now (Fabrizio Romano), but as the former Santos star ponders life away from Madrid, it is believed that Los Blancos have confirmed to his representatives that they're open to letting him leave.

“They [Rodrygo's agents] already had a meeting last week [with Madrid] to just present their own position," said Romano on his YouTube channel recently.

"In that meeting, from what I’ve heard, Real Madrid confirmed that they are open to letting Rodrygo go. Now it’s Rodrygo, together with his agents, who has to decide what he wants to do – stay and fight for a spot or leave and explore all the options."

Tottenham are reportedly keen to sign Rodrygo and make him the centrepiece of Frank's new-look Spurs side (AS), whilst other reports suggest that the 24-year-old hasn't ruled out a move to north London behind-the-scenes.

Fabio Paratici holds talks with Rodrygo about joining Tottenham

Now, journalist Ben Jacobs has shared another update on the situation.

The reporter, via We Are Tottenham TV, claims that unofficial Tottenham advisor, Fabio Paratici, has held talks with Rodrygo's camp over a move to England. However, Jacobs also provides a note of caution.

“When Rodrygo makes up his mind he’ll understand who actually wants him and who doesn’t,” Jacobs said.

“The only conversation that has taken place between the Rodrygo camp and somebody connected to Tottenham is via Fabio Paratici. Not Daniel Levy, nobody who is at the moment a full-time staff member. I don’t see this one developing, the player may prove to be open to the Premier League, but we’ll have to wait and see.”

Rodrygo netted 14 goals and 11 assists in 54 outings across all competitions last season, owing to his obvious quality, but the player may not be allowed to leave on the cheap.

Tottenham will likely have to break their transfer record to agree any deal for the South American, with Real currently demanding around £78 million - a valuation which Levy and co are keen to reduce (AS).

Thomas Frank will be the latest Tottenham Hotspur boss tasked with the responsibility of making the club Premier League title challengers in 2025/26, after taking the reins following Ange Postecoglou’s dismissal.

Whilst only being in the role for a matter of weeks, he’s already seen the challenges he faces in the role, with the Dane already embroiled in a saga over the addition of Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White.

A deal for his signature appeared to all be in order, after the Lilywhites decided to pull the trigger and activate the £60m release clause within his deal at the City Ground.

However, this is Spurs we’re talking about, and nothing ever comes easy - resulting in a missed opportunity after the player remarkably signed a new deal, in a move spearheaded by Reds' owner Evangelos Marinakis.

Being unable to land the star will undoubtedly leave a sour taste in the hierarchy’s mouth, but ultimately, the show goes on, with other targets now being considered to help strengthen the squad this summer.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer

In an attempt to forget about the failed move for Gibbs-White, the Spurs board have since turned their attention to a potential deal for Liverpool star Harvey Elliott.

It’s been reported that the Lilywhites have made an approach to the 22-year-old’s representatives over a move to North London, with Arne Slot’s side demanding £40m for his signature.

However, he’s not the only Englishman currently on their radar, with want-away Manchester City star Jack Grealish another name being considered, according to GIVEMESPORT.

Their report claims that enquiries have already been made for the 29-year-old forward, who joined Pep Guardiola’s side for a then-English record £100m back in the summer of 2021.

The article also goes on to state that the player himself would be keen on a move to North London this summer, subsequently leading West Ham United in the race for his signature.

A move could cost £40m if previous reports are to be believed.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be a better signing than Gibbs-White

Given the addition of Mohammed Kudus already this summer, along with the offer for Gibbs-White, it’s evident the Spurs hierarchy are targeting Premier League-proven options for Frank’s side.

The Englishman has been key in Forest’s remarkable rise in England’s top-flight, notching 15 combined goals and assists last season, subsequently securing European football for the first time in 30 years.

Such a season saw him make his senior England international debut, making £60m an excellent deal had they managed to get it over the line before Marinakis’ intervention.

However, the Premier League is a ruthless division, with other sides able to completely bypass you if you rest on your laurels - something which the Lilywhites aren’t currently guilty of.

Their disappointment will be undeniable, but it could prove to be a blessing in disguise if they manage to pull off a deal for Grealish in the coming months.

There’s no denying his move to the Etihad has halted his progression; only starting seven league outings last season after falling down Guardiola’s pecking order.

However, he managed to outperform Gibbs-White in multiple key areas last season, handing Frank a proven winner and arguably a better option given his trophy collection and experience in major European competitions.

Grealish, who has previously been dubbed a “monster” by Joe Cole, showcased his excellent ball-carrying ability last campaign, completing more progressive carries, with the vast majority being into the opposition’s box.

Such figures would massively bolster Frank’s side, as would the 29-year-old’s tally of key passes per 90, bettering Gibbs-White in such a department, able to provide a creative threat off the left or in central areas.

He also has the end product at the end of his mazy runs with the ball, completing more crosses per 90, having the talent to provide others in forward areas to improve their own goalscoring tallies.

It’s unclear whether a move for Grealish would be a temporary or permanent one this summer, but they could massively take advantage of his lack of game time with the Citizens.

The former Villa star has showcased he’s still capable of outperforming a £60m star despite his lack of action, potentially playing a huge role in any success endured during the Frank era.

It isn't beyond the realms of possibility that Tottenham could green-light a shock departure this summer, amid the uncertainty surrounding club captain Son Heung-min's future.

Thomas Frank has worked with Son extensively during pre-season, despite his credible links with a move away from N17 before deadline day on September 1, and the Dane continues to play down speculation by suggesting Son is key to his plans.

“I think everyone knows that Son has been one of the best players at Tottenham in the past 10 years. I think he’s been hugely successful from the left wing," said Frank in a recent press conference.

“I also think he’s had some fantastic games down the middle as a number nine. So it’s important to have players who can play in more than one position, and it’s about having your best players on the pitch and available.

“So the thing about Sonny is that he will always score goals, and it’s just about getting him in those situations.”

However, MLS side Los Angeles FC are lurking in the background, as they offer Son a move to the States with personal terms reportedly close to being agreed (GiveMeSport).

Star defender Romero was regularly linked with a high-profile move to Atletico Madrid all summer too. However, reports of the Argentine's potential move to La Liga have died down, especially after Diego Simeone's side completed a deal for David Hancko from Feyenoord.

Right now, Son is their most likely high-profile departure alongside Yves Bissouma, with the South Korea international poised to hold crunch talks over his future once Spurs return from their pre-season tour of Asia (GMS).

However, according to journalist Ben Jacobs, the 33-year-old and Bissouma could even be joined by playmaker James Maddison.

Tottenham could green-light "surprise" James Maddison exit

As per the reporter, speaking on We Are Tottenham TV this week, Tottenham could green-light a "surprise" exit for Maddison if the right offer comes in, even if they're not actively pushing to sell.

“There could be a slight surprise possibility that James Maddison is a player they would listen to offers for, without necessarily forcing him out of the door,” Jacobs said.

“What happened last season was that Maddison was in and out, he lacked fitness at times and consistency even when he was fit. I don’t think it’s unthinkable that they would listen to offers at the right price, but it’s not a case of trying to force him out or transfer list him, it’s not their plan that he will leave, but there could be consideration to offers at the right price.”

The 28-year-old, despite suffering from his fair share of fitness problems (something he had in common with almost the entire Tottenham squad last season), still managed 12 goals and 11 assists in all competitions and put in some crucial performances.

Letting Maddison leave, especially given their need for more creativity going forward, would be a bold move to say the least.

Any offer would need to be a handsome one, and ex-Spurs scout Bryan King believes Daniel Levy would only entertain bids at a minimum of £50 million, potentially up to £60m.

"They will want at least £50m. I would say anywhere between £50-60million would be accepted," King told Tottenham News in April.

"Maddison has had some positive moments at Tottenham and got himself into the England team. However, he has also lost his place in the England team due to his inconsistency.”

Tottenham Hotspur want to showcase ambition in the transfer market before deadline day, and this has been backed up by their moves thus far.

The standout signing has been Mohammed Kudus, who arrived from West Ham in a £55 million deal earlier this month. The Ghanaian, famed for his versatility, flair and explosive pace, fits seamlessly into Thomas Frank’s setup, and he's already impressed in flashes during pre-season.

Kudus brings both Premier League experience and creativity, qualities Spurs lacked in stretches of last season, mainly due to their injury nightmare. The 24-year-old also brings Champions League know-how from his time at Ajax, and in an alternate universe, he would've been joined by Nottingham Forest playmaker Morgan Gibbs-White in a statement £60 million move.

Spurs were on the verge of completing a sensational, quick-fire £115 million double deal for both Kudus and Gibbs-White, but chairman Daniel Levy was forced to settle for just the former with Forest blocking the Englishman's exit.

After Forest threatened legal action against both the Lilywhites and Gibbs-White's camp for an alleged 'illegal' approach (Sky Sports), Spurs were in limbo hoping for the 25-year-old's transfer over the next fortnight (Fabrizio Romano).

However, it was all in vain, with Gibbs-White signing a record-breaking new £150,000-per-week contract at Forest to end all hopes of Frank welcoming the attacker to N17.

The statement of intent was there from Levy and Tottenham, but an unprecedented chain of events means that the north Londoners must now turn to alternative forward targets in their quest for upgrades.

Frank needs to be backed with fresh faces ahead of his first ever campaign managing in the Champions League, and according to recent reports, Spurs are now turning towards Real Madrid star Rodrygo.

Tottenham want to make Real Madrid star Rodrygo their new "crown jewel"

Reports earlier this week claimed that Tottenham have opened discussions with intermediaries over a potential deal for Rodrygo, who faces an uncertain future under new Los Blancos boss Xabi Alonso.

Now, journalist Eduardo Burgos has shared an update on the situation in a piece for Diario AS.

Spurs have apparently approached Madrid, requesting their green-light to formally speak with the Brazil international, and they want Rodrygo to be the "crown jewel" of Frank's new-look squad for 2025/2026.

This follows the arrival of a "new investor" in the club which has given them "significant financial muscle", but they still want to lower Real's £78 million asking price. Tottenham are said to be moving for Rodrygo's signature through an intermediary, and they might actually have a free run at signing the 24-year-old.

While Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta is a fan of Rodrygo, they're yet to move, and it is believed both Liverpool and Chelsea are dropping out of the race with their eyes on Alexander Isak and Xavi Simons respectively.

Tottenham have been given some encouragement over the potential signing of a star player after unceremoniously missing out on Morgan Gibbs-White.

Gibbs-White was due at Hotspur Way for a medical nearly three weeks ago (BBC), and chairman Daniel Levy was ready to activate the England international's £60 million release clause (ESPN), only for Evangelos Marinakis to block the transfer, threaten legal action and somehow convince the player to stay.

Marinakis proudly watched over Gibbs-White from an uncomfortably short distance in his interview confirming the surprise contract extension on Saturday evening, with the player both praising Forest's owner and exclaiming his delight at remaining.

After what was an unprecedented twist, the 25-year-old will no longer become a Tottenham player despite all signs previously pointing in that direction. Luckily for Spurs supporters, the end of this bizarre saga by no means spells the conclusion of Levy's search for new attacking options.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Tottenham are actively working on an alternative to Gibbs-White, and there are even other suggestions that Frank's side have now emerged as shock contenders for Real Madrid forward Rodrygo.

The forward, who signed for Real seven years ago from Palmeiras for around £40 million, has gone on to become a notable first-team star for Los Blancos, with midfielder Jude Bellingham calling him their most underrated star.

However, uncertainty surrounds Rodrygo's future, with Real apparently telling the Brazil international's agents in a recent meeting that they're open to letting him go this summer.

"His agents are talking to Real Madrid," said Romano on his YouTube channel last week.

“They already had a meeting last week [with Madrid] to just present their own position. In that meeting, from what I’ve heard, Real Madrid confirmed that they are open to letting Rodrygo go.

“Now it’s Rodrygo, together with his agents, who has to decide what he wants to do – stay and fight for a spot or leave and explore all the options."

Now, according to journalist Graeme Bailey and TBR Football, his team are also speaking with Tottenham.

Rodrygo hints he's prepared to join Tottenham as Spurs speak with agents

It is believed that Spurs have opened discussions with intermediaries over signing Rodrygo, and the versatile attacker has "indicated that he would be open" to making a move to N17 before deadline day on September 1.

Levy is after a statement signing in the event Son Heung-min formalises a move to Los Angeles, and that is growing distinctly possible amid reports that the South Korean is close to agreeing personal terms.

The Lilywhites have also made it 'known' that they're ready to make Rodrygo their highest-paid player, with a lot of their discussions encouraged by the 24-year-old's willingness to join Frank's side.

After the appointment of Thomas Frank earlier this summer, it’s become apparent that Tottenham Hotspur are desperately trying to improve one area of the pitch this window.

Mohammed Kudus has already completed his £55m transfer from West Ham United to join the Lilywhites this summer, but their business appears far from done within the final third.

The Ghanaian will add key goals and assists to the side throughout 2025/26, that’s if his Premier League tally from last year is anything to go by, after he notched eight combined goals and assists for the Hammers.

However, despite Spurs’ tally of 64 league goals last year, it’s evident that further improvement is desired by the hierarchy during the off-season in an attempt to rise up the table.

Numerous names have been mentioned with moves, highlighting the ambition shown by Daniel Levy to avoid a repeat of their dismal league finish in 2024/25.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new attackers this summer

Yoane Wissa is a player who has been firmly on their radar this window, potentially following Frank in joining Spurs from Brentford during the off-season.

The DR Congo international has stated his desire to leave the Bees this summer, opening the door to a move across the capital, but they could face competition from Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest for his signature.

However, he’s not the only forward currently in their sights, with Roma star Mathias Soule also on their radar, according to Italian outlet Radio Radio via Tutto Juve.

They claim that the Lilywhites are preparing a £28m bid for the Argentinian winger, but they’re not alone, with Aston Villa also lurking for the 22-year-old’s signature.

The report also states that the Serie A side may have to raise funds this window, opening the door to a potential move to North London, but fails to mention whether the player would want the move.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be their answer to Rodrygo

Rodrygo has emerged as one of Europe’s leading talents over the last couple of years, starring on countless occasions for European giants Real Madrid.

The Brazilian has registered 270 appearances for the LaLiga outfit, managing to score 68 times, including an infamous double against Manchester City in the Champions League.

However, he looks set to depart this window, seemingly not part of Xabi Alonso’s plans after the Spaniard took the reins from Carlo Ancelotti ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

Spurs have been named as one of the interested parties in the 24-year-old’s signature this summer, but it appears he’s rejected any move to join the Lilywhites in favour of a bigger move.

Such a decision appears to be a big disappointment given his stature in the professional game, but the supporters shouldn’t be worried if they miss out on his signature.

Fellow target Soule, who’s been dubbed “Messi-esque” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has also been labelled a similar player to the Brazilian by FBref, subsequently showing the talent he possesses.

When delving into their respective stats from the recent campaign, the Roma star managed to outperform him in numerous key areas, offering Frank’s side a cheaper alternative this window.

The Argentine may have registered fewer combined goals and assists, but posted a higher goal per shot on target rate, showcasing the added threat he carries in front of goal.

He also managed to complete more key passes and more passes into the opposition’s box per 90, highlighting the creativity he possesses over the Real Madrid star.

Soule’s dominance is further reflected in his higher tally of crosses completed and aerials won, having the tools to provide Frank’s side with a more all-rounded talent within the final third during his quest for success.

£28m for a player of his talents could prove to be a huge bargain, especially given the chance he has to develop further in North London, given his tender age.

If he can continue on his current trajectory, he could surpass the levels achieved by Rodrygo, allowing them to forget about a move for his signature and be the club’s own version of the superstar.

Despite already securing the services of Mohammed Kudus this summer, there’s still a huge lingering sense of disappointment at Tottenham Hotspur so far this summer.

Morgan Gibbs-White emerged as a key target for Thomas Frank’s side, as the Dane looks to improve the forward options at his disposal in North London.

The hierarchy even went to the length of triggering his £60m release clause, leading to Fabrizio Romano confirming he was set for a medical at the club.

However, his move has now been cancelled after Nottingham Forest lodged an appeal for an illegal approach, resulting in the 25-year-old signing a record-breaking contract with his current employers.

As a result, missing out on his signature has seen other targets being considered for the number ten role, with Frank evidently wanting to improve such a position ahead of the upcoming Premier League campaign.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for a new attacking midfielder

Despite having James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski already on the books at Spurs, other attacking options are being considered to provide depth within the final third.

The likes of James McAtee, Harvey Elliott and Jack Grealish have been touted with moves to North London, still remaining on their shortlist despite interest elsewhere.

They’re not the only ones currently in their sights, leading to Aston Villa’s Jacob Ramsey being named as another target, according to TBR Football.

They claim that the Lilywhites are weighing up a move for the 24-year-old forward, who could be able to depart Villa Park if an acceptable offer is presented this summer.

The report also states that Unai Emery’s side are currently demanding a £40m fee to part ways with the academy graduate who’s notched 14 Premier League goals in his career to date.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be their answer to Gibbs-White

There’s no denying that, given the work conducted for Gibbs-White’s signature this summer, that the Forest star was the number one target to strengthen their squad.

Frank has previously stated his admiration for the England international, likely being gutted to miss out on his services after the hierarchy demonstrated their ambition, given years of inactivity in the market.

£60m in today’s market would’ve been an excellent price tag for a player of his quality, but if the club are to be successful next campaign, they will need to rapidly move on to other targets.

Such a situation has seen Ramsey emerge as a key target for Frank’s side, potentially allowing them to forget about the disappointment currently being felt in North London.

However, any move for the Villa star would allow the club to land their own version of the Forest star, potentially replicating a deal that saw the 25-year-old move to the City Ground.

Ramsey could join the Lilywhites for a similar fee as Gibbs-White did a couple of years ago, whilst also moving away from his boyhood club in order to further his career.

The similarities are there for all to see, but when delving into their underlying figures from 2024/25, the Villa academy graduate has managed to better the former target in various areas, arguably being a better addition for Frank’s side.

Ramsey, who’s been dubbed “ridiculous” by Squawka, managed to complete more passes, registering more into the opposition box per 90 last season, arguably being a more creative option for the Lilywhites.

The number ten role also requires individual brilliance, something which the 24-year-old possesses, as seen by his higher tallies of take-ons completed and carries into the opposition’s box per 90.

Whilst the attacking role requires talent with the ball, it also comes with the demands of being effective out of possession, something which the Villa gem has demonstrated, winning more tackles per 90, potentially being a superb all-round option within the current Spurs side.

He may not provide the immediate excitement like a deal for Gibbs-White did, but Ramsey is a hugely talented player who could add further quality to the current first team squad in North London.

If he can continue on his current trajectory, he could even surpass the levels produced by the Reds' talent, potentially seeing the disappointment of missing out on his signature become a blessing in disguise.

Tottenham, in unprecedented circumstances, missed out on Nottingham Forest playmaker Morgan Gibbs-White, with the club now forced to move on to other transfer targets.

The announcement of Gibbs-White's new contract dropped on Saturday evening, thwarting Thomas Frank's hopes of bringing in a proven number 10 to inject some much-needed creativity - at least for now.

The England international was due to be another statement signing immediately after Tottenham's £55 million deal for Mohammed Kudus, with chairman Daniel Levy and co booking Gibbs-White in for medical tests at Hotspur Way on July 11 (BBC).

The Lilywhites were also ready to pay his £60 million release clause, but Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis put a stop to the transfer, threatened Spurs with legal action and somehow convinced Gibbs-White to pen a contract extension.

Gibbs-White praised Marinakis in an interview after the new deal was confirmed, with the Greek tycoon standing proudly next to him in what was seen as a bizarre move.

It is never straightforward when it comes to Tottenham, with Levy, technical director Johan Lange and the recruitment team wasting over a fortnight on their chase for Gibbs-White as just weeks remain of the summer window.

Their need for a new creator is emphasised by club legend Son Heung-min's potential departure to the States.

Los Angeles FC are actively pursuing a deal for the South Korea international with an approach made, but the north Londoners are unlikely to sell before the end of their pre-season tour of Asia due to certain contractual obligations and his obvious commercial appeal in the Far East (The Telegraph).

There are reports that Levy is prepared to sanction Son's move to LA for around £15-20 million, and another update has now come to light.

Son close to agreeing personal terms with LAFC over Tottenham exit

According to GiveMeSport, Son is now close to agreeing personal terms with LAFC, and the MLS side are eyeing a transfer towards the end of August.

The 33-year-old also has firm admirers in Saudi Arabia, who are prepared to pay £30 million plus add-ons, but it appears LAFC are taking the lead right now with talks "advancing". That being said, Son has made no final decision on leaving just yet.

The £190,000-per-week winger is expected to hold crunch discussions with Frank over his future and role in the first team once they return to London, with Tottenham happy to keep Son and let him leave on a free transfer next year.

Levy won't stand in the former Bayer Leverkusen star's way if he does choose a move to LA, though, meaning Son's future is entirely in his hands.

An exit would bring an end to Son's incredible 10-year stay in N17, where he cemented himself as a club icon. Son is past the century mark in terms of both goals (173) and assists (101) since joining Spurs, with supporters facing the prospect of bidding an emotional farewell to the forward.

Tottenham Hotspur have now made contact over a deal for a "generational" Premier League midfielder, as they love his versatility, according to a report.

Spurs vying to sign new midfielder amid Bissouma uncertainty

There has been a great deal of speculation surrounding Yves' Bissouma's future in north London, with the likes of AC Milan and Fenerbahce being named as potential suitors, although the midfielder has made it clear he is keen to remain in England.

With the central midfielder's contract set to expire next summer, it would make sense for Spurs to get him off the books this summer, while they can still receive a fee, and they have recently stepped up their pursuit of a potential replacement.

Bayern Munich's Joao Palhinha is among the main targets, with Fabrizio Romano recently revealing that contact has been made with the Portugal international's camp, but the Lilywhites also have a Premier League player in mind as an alternative option.

Indeed, according to a report from GiveMeSport, Tottenham have now made contact with Manchester United over a potential deal for Kobbie Mainoo, with his contract situation at Old Trafford still unresolved, potentially opening the door for an exit.

Informal enquiries have been made, in order to assess whether a deal for Mainoo would be possible, with Spurs said to be big fans of the midfielder's versatility.

The 20-year-old has found it difficult to force his way into Ruben Amorim's plans, and the north Londoners are hopeful that United will be willing to cash-in this summer, but a deal may be on the expensive side, with the Red Devils reportedly set to hold out for £70m.

"Generational" Mainoo could be better long-term signing than Palhinha

Palhinha was very impressive during his time with Fulham, being lauded as "world-class" by reporter Dom Smith, but the Bayern midfielder is now 30-years-old, making him ten years Mainoo's senior.

Not only that, but the Portuguese maestro has failed to kick on since moving to Bayern, making just 17 Bundesliga appearances last term, indicating that he could be better-suited to playing for a smaller club like Fulham.

The United midfielder, on the other hand, has been lauded as a "generational" player by writer Liam Canning, and he has already made 72 first-team appearances for the Red Devils, picking up seven goals and two assists.