FootballFanCast

Tottenham boss Thomas Frank has just overseen two pre-season friendlies in one day, but off the field, technical director Johan Lange is working to back his fellow Dane with more new signings.

Spurs battled against both Wycombe Wanderers and Luton Town today, with the senior squad split into multiple sides as Frank looked to hand as many minutes to his players as possible.

The Lilywhites are now set to travel to Asia for a pre-season tour of the Far East, where they face off against north London rivals Arsenal in Hong Kong before taking on Newcastle in the South Korean capital of Seoul.

Spurs have a final pre-season game against Bayern Munich in Germany before their highly-anticipated UEFA Super Cup clash against European champions PSG - a match that gifts Frank an opportunity to win silverware almost immediately after his predecessor, Ange Postecoglou.

A surprise win against the Ligue 1 heavyweights would be the perfect start to Frank's tenure in charge, and he'd ideally have a few more summer recruits through the door before they battle Luis Enrique's men at the Stadio Friuli.

Tottenham are still trying to sign Morgan Gibbs-White despite Nottingham Forest blocking his once-imminent move to N17 earlier this month.

Forest threatened both the north Londoners and Gibbs-White's agent with legal action for what they deemed to be an 'illegal approach' for the playmaker (Sky Sports), but there remains an expectation that Frank could eventually welcome him to Hotspur Way (Fabrizio Romano).

Tottenham were set to welcome Gibbs-White and Mohammed Kudus in quick succession, with a medical scheduled over two weeks ago (BBC). However, Frank is now having to wait a lot longer for the 25-year-old's arrival with the legalities involved.

According to reports, Spurs are targeting a new centre-back too and have shortlisted a variety of targets for the number six role, including Bayern Munich's Joao Palhinha (Alasdair Gold).

This comes after they confirmed the signings of Kudus, Kota Takai, Kevin Danso and Mathys Tel on a permanent deal from Bayern Munich earlier this window.

Mathys Tel shares conversation with Harry Kane about joining Tottenham

Speaking of Tel, the Frenchman has now lifted the lid on a conversation he had with Spurs legend Harry Kane about joining the club.

After initially backing out of a transfer to N17 in January, Tel ultimately U-turned and agreed a move to England on an initial loan deal, which included an option to buy for around £45 million.

Chairman Daniel Levy, following a mixed start for the 20-year-old, then negotiated a cut-price £30 million deal for Tel, who's now signed for them indefinitely ahead of his first full season at the club.

Speaking to Sky Germany, as transcribed by Sport Witness, Tel says that Kane played a role in convincing him to sign for Spurs - with the club's all-time top scorer offering a helping hand through emotional support.

“Yes, I spoke to him [Kane] beforehand,” Tel said.

“He told me, if you need anything, send me a text, give me a call. I spoke to him; he’s a top guy. (Now it’s a) new challenge, I’m ready for my team, the clubs and also the fans.”

Tottenham Hotspur’s efforts within the transfer market have accelerated over recent days, looking to make key additions before the start of the Premier League campaign.

Thomas Frank has taken the reins during the off-season, looking to build on the Europa League success endured by the club at the end of last season.

The Dane will be wanting to hit the ground running in his first year at the helm, but he will certainly need investment from the hierarchy if he’s to be a success in the role.

Former boss Ange Postecoglou struggled with injuries last season, leaving his side without key players and highlighting the need for added depth ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

Numerous players have been linked with a switch to join the Lilywhites so far this window, but as of yet, Mohammed Kudus remains the only senior player to join the club in the current window.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new signings this summer

Multiple surprising links have emerged so far this window, with the latest linking Spurs with a shock move to sign Manchester United youngster Kobbie Mainoo.

It’s been reported that the 20-year-old could be offloaded by Ruben Amorim during the off-season, with his current contract talks with the Red Devils hitting a standstill.

However, he’s not the only English midfielder on their radar, as Morgan Gibbs-White remains a key target after triggering his £60m release clause, according to GIVEMESPORT.

Their report claims that the Nottingham Forest midfielder has already agreed personal terms with the Lilywhites over a move to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

It also states that a move could still be completed for the 25-year-old’s signature this summer, despite flying out to Portugal with the rest of the Forest side for their pre-season tour.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be perfect alongside Palhinha

Bayern Munich star Joao Palhinha is another name who’s been constantly on Spurs’ radar in recent days, highlighting a real impetus on new midfield additions this summer.

The Portuguese international looks set to make a move away from the Allianz Arena, after making just six league starts for the Bundesliga giants last campaign.

His move to Germany has been nothing short of a disaster, being unable to match the £47m price tag they paid for his signature less than 12 months ago.

However, his lack of action in Germany could prove to be the Lilywhites’ gain this window, potentially being able to land a cut-price deal given his lack of action in recent times.

The deep-lying midfielder could prove to be the perfect option at the base of the side, allowing Gibbs-White to create carnage with the ball at his feet in attacking areas.

The England international, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by analyst Nathan Joyes, registered 5.3 progressive passes per 90 last season, whilst also making 4.1 passes into the final third - having the creative ability to provide those in front of him.

He also notched 1.6 key passes, along with 2.5 take-ons per 90, having the all-round ability with the ball at his feet to make him a constant nuisance for the opposition.

Gibbs-White’s talents are further reflected by his tally of 3.7 shot-creating actions per 90, whilst ranking in the top 9% of all players in the division for through balls completed.

Whilst the deal may still be a way away from being completed, the fact that he still wants to join the Lilywhites during this window amid the controversy is certainly a positive.

If they do complete a deal, the prospect of the former Wolves star linking up with Palhinha in the midfield is certainly one to be excited about, potentially taking the club to the next level as a result.

Tottenham Hotspur’s ambition to strengthen the squad throughout this summer has already been evident, already making key moves within the transfer market.

Mohammed Kudus is the first major signing of the Thomas Frank era, after joining the club in a £55m deal from London rivals West Ham United earlier this month.

However, despite the big money spent on the Ghanaian’s signature, other targets are still being pursued, with the club potentially being subject to external investment.

Various areas of the pitch have been of interest in recent days, but as of yet, no other key dealings have been completed ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign.

Numerous players have emerged on their shortlist already this window, leading to work being done behind the scenes to ensure Frank has the best chance of success in North London.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer

Adam Wharton has been named as one of Spurs’ biggest targets this summer, with Frank evidently wanting to improve the options within his midfield department.

However, despite their interest in the Crystal Palace star, a deal for his signature is extremely unlikely, with the Eagles currently demanding £100m for the Englishman’s signature.

The 21-year-old isn’t the only player currently in their sights within such an area of the pitch, leading to Juventus star Douglas Luiz being another target, according to Dean Jones.

He claims that internal talks have been held behind the scenes in North London over a possible deal for the Brazilian, as he looks set to depart the Italian outfit this window.

Jones also states that no serious development has been made for his signature, but the player himself wants a return to England after leaving Aston Villa 12 months ago.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be a better signing than Palhinha

Despite the recent moves within the transfer market, Spurs still hold a keen interest in landing the signature of Bayern Munich star João Palhinha this summer.

Their interest in the Portuguese midfielder has been confirmed in recent days, with the 30-year-old allowed to depart the Bundesliga champions in the coming weeks.

He only joined the club last summer in a £47m deal from Fulham, but after making just six league starts in 2024/25, it’s safe to say he’s not a player in Vincent Kompany’s plans.

Palhinha has previously excelled in England’s top-flight, making 79 appearances for the Cottagers over a two-year spell, arguably being one of the best deep-lying options within the division.

However, despite interest being registered in his services, the hierarchy should be prioritising a move for Luiz this window, with the Brazilian undoubtedly a better option.

When comparing their respective stats from the recent campaign, the former Villa star has dominated in key areas, having the tools to improve the options at Frank’s disposal as a result.

Luiz, who’s been labelled “world-class” by journalist Adam Gilks, registered more key passes and progressive passes per 90, showcasing his ability to get the ball into forward areas, something which could massively bolster the attackers’ tally as a result.

He also completed more of the take-ons he attempted, whilst making more carries into the final third, further demonstrating his dominance with the ball at his feet.

However, defensively, the former Villa star has also impressed, winning a higher percentage of tackles, whilst also registering more interceptions per 90, arguably being the perfect deep-lying option for the Lilywhites.

It’s unclear if the side are willing to pursue a move for Luiz’s signature, but it’s evident from their stats in the recent campaign that he would be a better signing than Palhinha.

Whether he joins on a temporary or permanent basis, it would be a signing that would hand Frank the midfield talent he craves, handing him the best chance of success in his debut campaign at the helm.

Tottenham are planning to sign a new centre-back this summer, with Daniel Levy and Johan Lange casting their eyes on an exciting young target who Spurs tip to become a star.

The Lilywhites are reliably believed to be looking at bolstering the centre of their defence, as reported by The Telegraph, who also state that Thomas Frank's side could weigh up another move for Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi.

Spurs saw a club-record £70 million bid rejected for Guehi in January, but despite this and competition from Premier League champions Liverpool, they haven't thrown in the towel when it comes to potentially signing the England international.

Palace are also now open to selling Guehi for a minimum £45 million with his contract expiring in less than 12 months (GiveMeSport), so this is certainly one to watch, but the 25-year-old isn't Tottenham's only defensive target.

Contrary to other reports, some media sources state that Tottenham are frontrunners to sign Illia Zabarnyi from Bournemouth, despite PSG's lengthy ongoing talks to sign the Ukranian.

Zabarnyi has already agreed personal terms with PSG, but Spurs apparently remain in the race for his signature after the 22-year-old's exceptional campaign at the heart of Andoni Iraola's defence.

Tottenham reportedly competed to sign Zabarnyi's former centre-back partner Dean Huijsen as well, according to Fabrizio Romano, but it was always a tall order to barge aside Real Madrid, who've since added the Spaniard to Xabi Alonso's ranks.

"Tottenham Hotspur were also constantly calling as well as Bayern Munich," said Romano to GMS about the race for Huijsen earlier this year.

“But, the German giants understood they needed to sell a centre-back like Kim Min-jae in order to proceed with a new expensive signing, and it didn’t happen. For Spurs and Newcastle, it also became impossible to compete when Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal appeared with important proposals.”

Tottenham expected to make "official move" for Giovanni Leoni

Alongside Guehi, the north Londoners could turn to Parma defender Giovanni Leoni.

Levy and Lange have been linked with the 18-year-old already, but CaughtOffside now state that Tottenham are expected to make an "official move" for Leoni shortly.

Parma won't entertain any offers below their asking price, though, which could be up to around £35 million, and Newcastle are fellow favourites to sign the Italian teenager who's fresh off the back of a solid debut campaign for the Serie A side.

Leoni is highly-rated at N17, though, described as a "standout young defender" in the report, and those within Spurs view him as a 'cornerstone of their future defensive setup'.

The former Sampdoria gem, who stands at a towering 6 foot 4, made 17 top-flight appearances for Parma across 24/25 - featuring at centre-back and playing as a right-back occasionally - and he's tipped for a very bright career.

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.