FootballFanCast

Bigger star than Vuskovic: Spurs make club-record bid for "phenomenal" ace

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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.

Big Sarr upgrade: Spurs make approach to sign £33m Gibbs-White alternative

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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.

Club tell £30m "machine" he can leave after his talks with Tottenham

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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."

Levy told key condition to sign £47m Frank target as Tottenham open talks

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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."

Frank's a fan: Tottenham may hijack Newcastle's move for £50m midfielder

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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."

Better signing than Gibbs-White: Spurs in talks to sign "electric" £22m ace

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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.

Their own Ekitike: Spurs eyeing move for Arsenal's "golden" striker target

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It's been an interesting summer for Tottenham Hotspur so far.

The club were quick to fire Ange Postecoglou and appoint Thomas Frank, but as things stand, have made just one genuine new first-team addition in Mohammed Kudus.

Compare that to fellow 'big six' side Liverpool, for example, and it simply doesn't look like enough, as they've already signed stars like Milos Kerkez, Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong.

Moreover, the Reds now appear set to land the goalscoring extraordinaire Hugo Ekitiké, although, based on reports, Spurs could be looking to sign someone who has been compared to him, someone who is also an Arsenal target.

Spurs target the next Ekitike

While there is some understandable frustration from some Spurs fans this summer due to Kudus being the only new genuine first-team signing so far, there are still reasons to be positive.

For example, Daniel Levy and Co still seem intent on signing Morgan Gibbs-White, with some reports claiming that they're set to make another improved offer of £65m, perhaps in a bid to placate and smooth things over with Nottingham Forest owner, Evangelos Marinakis.

Moreover, the North Londoners have continued to invest in promising youngsters, with Japanese centre-back Kota Takai joining for £5m, Mathys Tel making his move permanent for £30m and Croatian defender Vuskovic finally joining up with the first team after spending the last two years out on loan.

In fact, the club appear intent on adding even more promising prospects to the squad this summer, including one who could become their own Ekitike.

At least that's according to a recent report from Sébastien Vidal, who claims Spurs are interested in Mainz gem Nelson Weiper.

The journalist has revealed that the Lilywhites have now joined the list of clubs keen on the Germany U21 star, a list that includes rivals Arsenal.

Vidal has revealed that an offer of €14m - £12m - should be enough to tempt the Bundesliga side into selling their exciting prospect this summer.

It might sound like a lot of money for someone relatively unknown in England, but Weiper looks like he could be something special, and he's already been compared to the incredible Ekitike.

Why Weiper could be Spurs' future Ekitike

So, the first place to start is with the most concrete comparison to Ekitike, as we are well aware that it might sound a little absurd to compare an up-and-coming striker with someone who is set to cost £79m.

The comparison itself stems from FBref, which analysed players in Europe's top five leagues, the Champions League, and the Europa League over the last 365 days, and concluded that the French phenom is the second most similar forward to the Mainz ace.

While it might be hard to believe, the best way to understand how this conclusion was reached is by exploring some of the underlying metrics in which the pair ranked closely.

While he still has plenty of developing to do, the fact the 20-year-old was able to take as many shots on target as Ekitike in the top-flight for a team that finished sixth is seriously impressive, and suggests he could become a real threat in dangerous areas.

In fact, you don't even have to speculate too much, as across his junior career he has been a seriously prolific striker.

For example, in just 19 games for Mainz's under-19s, he's scored 22 goals and provided one assist, and in just 474 minutes for Germany's U21s, he has scored four goals and provided one assist.

Ultimately, there is always going to be an element of risk in signing someone so young, but with the fee needed beingf relativley low, his impressive numbers and the compariosons to Ekitike, this feels like a risk worth taking for Spurs.

Talks ongoing: Tottenham in contact to sign £70m Premier League "superstar"

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Tottenham Hotspur are now in contact to sign a £70m Premier League "superstar", who is keen to leave his club this summer, transfer expert Graeme Bailey has revealed.

Spurs set sights on new forward

It appears as though Son Heung-min is set to remain at N17 for at least one more season, although former scout Mick Brown has suggested Tottenham could look at replacing the forward in the near future, given that he is no longer the player he once was.

Brown said: "You look at his stats last year, they were nowhere near as good as they were the year before, but you know what type of player you’re getting.

"With just one year left on his contract, there’s more value in keeping him for a Champions League and Premier League campaign rather than selling him now. You don’t really want to lose that type of player and what Sonny can offer you."

Consequently, it may be time for Thomas Frank to start running the rule over potential long-term replacements for Son, and Southampton's Tyler Dibling has recently been identified as a potential option.

However, Spurs are also targeting a current Premier League player, according to Bailey, who recently told The Boot Room: “Alejandro Garnacho wants to stay in England, and there are only so many options. Chelsea, we know, like him, whilst Tottenham have maintained contact."

There may also be rival interest from Aston Villa, with Unai Emery's side making contact over Garnacho, who is valued at around £70m, and Bailey states the winger would be open to a move to Villa Park.

One thing that is clear is that the Man United forward is likely to be on the move this summer, having already informed his current employers that he wants to leave.

"Superstar" Garnacho could reignite career at Tottenham

At 21-years-old, the United ace is still very young, with plenty of time to fulfill his lofty potential, and journalist Liam Canning believes the youngster is already a "superstar".

The 2024-25 season was, of course, very difficult for the Red Devils, with Spurs ultimately coming out on top in the Europa League final, but the Argentina international still managed to impress at times, amassing 21 goal contributions in all competitions.

Ruben Amorim was also left impressed by the starlet, praising him for his performance in the 1-1 draw against Arsenal: "I think Garnacho made a really complete game. He was upset last Thursday and today, he was amazing."

As such, United's loss could be Tottenham's gain this summer, and Garnacho's ability to play on the left-wing could make him a solid long-term replacement for Son.

West Ham submit offer for £34m "revelation" who's also wanted by Tottenham

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West Ham United have now submitted an offer for a £34m "revelation", who is also a target for Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur, according to a report.

West Ham set sights on midfielder amid Soucek uncertainty

Tomas Soucek has been a key player for West Ham ever since his arrival, with the midfielder featuring in a minimum of 35 Premier League games in each of the last five seasons, but there has been speculation over his future at the London Stadium for quite some time.

With the Toffees now set to make a bid for the 30-year-old, the Hammers have started running the rule over potential replacements, and Bayer Leverkusen's Granit Xhaka was recently identified as a target.

The former Arsenal man could be a solid option, given that he has already proven himself in England, but the Switzerland international is not the only ex-Premier League player on the Irons' shortlist.

According to a report from Gazzetta Dello Sport (via West Ham Zone), West Ham have now tabled an offer for Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz, having emerged as one of the clubs most keen on securing his signature, alongside Everton.

The Italian club had been hoping to receive a fee of £34m for the former Aston Villa man, but given that he has failed to impress since making the move to Italy, they may be forced to cash-in at a lower price.

In order to get a deal over the line, the Hammers may also have to fend off interest from bitter rivals Tottenham, who recently held internal talks about signing Luiz.

Luiz could be "revelation" at West Ham

Any club would find it difficult to replace Declan Rice, although Soucek has stepped up in the England international's absence, recording the third-highest average rating of any West Ham player in the Premier League last term.

However, with the Czechia international now edging closer to Everton, it could make sense to bring in a new midfielder with similar qualities to Rice, and the Juventus midfielder certainly fits the bill in that regard.

Much like Rice, the 27-year-old is a very well-rounded midfielder, impressing in both an attacking and defensive sense for Villa during the 2023-24 campaign.

Their answer to Simons: Spurs preparing big offer to sign "world-class" CM

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Next season is shaping up to be a massively important one for Tottenham Hotspur.

New boss Thomas Frank has the job of improving and stabilising the club in the Premier League, while also ensuring they put in a good showing in the Champions League.

Fortunately, things have been going rather well so far this summer, with a win in their first pre-season game against Reading and an excellent performance from new signing Mohammed Kudus.

However, with the window open for another month or so, the North Londoners need to do more business, and it looks like they will, with them looking to sign someone who could be their answer to Xavi Simons.

Spurs target their own Simons

Simons has been grabbing plenty of headlines over the last week or so, as it looks like he'll be leaving RB Leipzig this summer.

Spurs have been linked with him in recent days, but as things stand, it looks like London rivals Chelsea and Arsenal are the most likely to secure his services.

While seeing a talented player go to your rivals is never ideal, the Lilywhites faithful shouldn't fret, as it appears that they're going big for someone who could be Frank's answer to the Dutchman.

At least that's according to a recent report from Sébastien Vidal, who claims Spurs are still very interested in signing Morgan Gibbs-White.

In fact, the journalist has revealed that the North Londoners "are preparing a final offer of £65m" for the England international.

It remains to be seen whether this will be enough, as Nottingham Forest have made it clear they do not want to sell the midfielder, and have even threatened the European League champions with legal action after they 'triggered a reported £60m release clause.'

It could end up being a complicated and costly transfer to get done, but Gibbs-White has proven he's worth the hassle, especially as he could be Frank's answer to Simons.

Why Gibbs-White could be Spurs' Simons

So, while it's true that there are some differences between the two players, it's also undeniable that they share a lot in common, such as their position.

For example, both players are now primarily viewed as attacking midfielders, but they can, and often do, play in other positions.

In the Dutchman's case, he's more than capable of playing across the frontline, while the Englishman can drop deeper into central midfield, or put in a shift on the right-wing, where he has 11 goal involvements in 24 games.

The second similarity is that both players are incredibly effective in their respective teams and look like they could reach another level in a better side.

For example, the "world-class" Forest ace, as dubbed by one Forest content creator, found the back of the net seven times and provided ten assists in just 34 league appearances last season, which works out to a goal involvement on average every other game.

For his efforts, the former PSV Eindhoven star scored ten goals and provided seven assists in 25 league games, which comes out to a goal involvement every 1.47 games.

Now, it's certainly true that the 22-year-old's numbers look better here, but it's essential to take into consideration that the Premier League is comfortably the toughest league in the world, while the Bundesliga just about comes in as the third, and a distant one at that.

Finally, should the Lilywhites get their man, and Arsenal or Chelsea secure the former Paris Saint-Germain gem, then they'd both be making their way to a London-based 'big six' side, which will only invite more comparisons between them.

Ultimately, while it could prove difficult, Spurs should do what they can to sign Gibbs-White this summer, as he seems ready to explode at the right club, and he'd be a perfect answer to whoever signs Simons.