All posts by rastrear-estafeta.com

Leeds United know that they will be playing Premier League football in the 2025/26 campaign, and they must now start to lay down plans for their squad.

The summer transfer window opens for business in June, although business can be done before that, and the Whites will know that they have work to do to build a team that can avoid relegation from the top-flight.

Daniel Farke, speaking after Leeds beat Stoke City 6-0 and sealed promotion to the Premier League, told Sky Sports reporters not to “scare” him with the prospect of next season yet.

The German head coach knows better than most how difficult the top-flight can be, having been relegated and sacked by Norwich City in his two seasons in the division so far.

Farke will know that he needs to be ruthless in the summer transfer window, with players coming in and out of Elland Road, and one player who should be brutally binned from the squad is underperforming goalkeeper Illan Meslier.

Why Leeds must cash in on Illan Meslier

The French shot-stopper should be moved on by Leeds before the start of the 2025/26 campaign because he has not performed well enough in the Championship, and was a liability the last time that the club were in the Premier League.

In the 2021/22 and 2022/23 campaigns combined, Meslier conceded a staggering 28.6 more goals than expected based on the post-shot xG of the shots against his goal.

The left-footed dud showed that he was not up to the standard required in the Premier League, certainly as a shot-stopper, with that dreadful record between the sticks, and his performances have once again left a lot to be desired in the second tier.

Meslier was recently dropped from the team in favour of Karl Darlow, who has conceded two goals in five matches since, after making too many errors in goal.

Appearances

44

39

Save success rate

68%

71%

Goals prevented

-4.49

-2.73

Error led to shot

1

0

Error led to goal

1

3

As you can see in the table above, the 25-year-old flop has made three errors that directly led to goals in the current league campaign, whilst he has underperformed as a shot-stopper against his xG in the last two Championship seasons.

These statistics do not suggest that he is ready to make the step up to the Premier League next season, because he has not performed well enough in the league below.

Meslier is also in a tricky position with his contract. His current deal is due to expire in the summer of 2026 and this means that the club would risk losing him for nothing if they do not make a decision on his future this year.

His performances in both the Premier League and the Championship in recent years suggest that the Whites should not commit to keeping him at Elland Road in the long term, which is why they should be looking to cash in on him this summer.

Leeds could, then, use any funds from the potential sale of Meslier to bring in a new goalkeeper, with the hope that they can improve the team and perform well at Premier League level.

The French flop is far from the only member of the current squad who may not be deemed good enough to be part of a top-flight campaign, though, as central defender Max Wober is another dud who must be ruthlessly binned by Farke.

Why Leeds should sell Max Wober

Like Meslier, the Austria international has found himself playing second-fiddle to the likes of Joe Rodon, Ethan Ampadu, and Pascal Struijk in the centre-back positions.

He has been an unused substitute in 17 of his 24 inclusions in the matchday squad, making seven appearances, in the Championship this season, which does not suggest that Farke trusts him to perform week-in-week-out in the second tier.

The left-footed defender has also missed 23 matches through injury for club and country, with two separate absences with knee injuries, and that has not helped his chances of breaking into the team on a regular basis.

He has started two of his seven outings in the second tier and Leeds may want to find an upgrade on him, given that he has not been trusted in the Championship, ahead of a Premier League season.

One of his two starts in the league this season came in the 3-3 draw away at Hull City earlier this year, and his performance caused Tony Dorigo, during his coverage on BBC Radio Leeds, to heavily criticise the defender.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Dorigo said: “Wober was miles, miles off it today. You could see in his recovery, the way he was picking up people, everything was half-hearted, everything was slow. Whether he was tired, carrying an injury I don’t know.”

Wober, of course, has also already been relegated from the Premier League with Leeds at the end of the 2022/23 campaign, having joined from RB Salzburg in the January transfer window.

Appearances

16

Starts

14

Clean sheets

2

Dribbled past

8x

Duel success rate

53%

Penalties committed

1

Error led to shot

1

As you can see in the table above, the Austrian defender did not impress in his short time in the top-flight with the Whites, being dribbled past every other game on average and helping to keep just two clean sheets in 16 matches.

Therefore, his lack of minutes and form in the Championship this season does not suggest that he will fare much better this time round, which is why Farke must ruthlessly ditch him from the squad.

Wober, as per Capology, is also within the top ten earners at Elland Road on £35k-per-week, which shows that the club have not got value for money out of his contract, in terms of his contributions on the pitch.

Better signing than Piroe: Farke has hit gold with "tremendous" Leeds star

Leeds United hit the jackpot with this signing who has been even better than Joel Piroe.

ByDan Emery Apr 22, 2025

It is now down to Farke and the club to be ruthless in their decision-making over the summer transfer window, starting with moves away from West Yorkshire for both Meslier and Wober.

Liverpool recently confirmed that star attacker Mohamed Salah has put pen to paper on a new two-year contract with the club to extend his stay at Anfield beyond the summer.

His old deal was due to expire at the end of the current season, which would have made him a free agent ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, but the Reds will have Salah running down the wing again next term.

That should come as a huge relief to the Anfield supporters because he has scored 243 goals for the club to date, including 27 goals in the Premier League so far this term.

The Egypt international consistently carries a big threat at the top end of the pitch, and his decision to extend his contract will come as a big boost for Arne Slot, who will be able to call upon his services on the right flank again next season.

Salah is not the only key Liverpool star who has decided to remain at Anfield, though, as Virgil van Dijk has reportedly agreed a two-year contract extension, although that has yet to be officially confirmed by the club.

Why keeping Virgil van Dijk is a big boost for Liverpool

Keeping the Netherlands international beyond the summer, when his deal is currently due to expire, is set to be a big boost for the club when it is made official.

The former Southampton defender is on the verge of winning his second Premier League title with the Reds, and his first whilst wearing the captain’s armband.

Van Dijk has played every single minute of the current league season for the Reds, starting all 32 of their matches, and has been a rock at the heart of the defence.

Liverpool have kept 13 clean sheets and conceded 31 goals – the second-lowest tally in the division – in that time, thanks to his exceptional performances at centre-back.

Starts

32

Pass accuracy

92%

Clean sheets

13

Tackles + interceptions per game

2.7

Clearances per game

5.2

Ground duel success rate

61%

Aerial duel success rate

70%

As you can see in the table above, Van Dijk has dominated opposition attackers in duels on the ground and in the air, whilst being incredibly reliable with the ball at his feet.

The Dutch defender, who scored the winning goal in their clash with West Ham United at Anfield last weekend, has been a consistent and brilliant performer at centre-back, playing a pivotal role in their soon-to-be title success.

This is why keeping the defender at the club is set to be a big boost for Liverpool and Klopp, particularly as he is now at an age – 33 – where it is all about his performances, rather than any sell-on value.

At the time of writing (17/04/2025), Transfermarkt have Van Dijk’s market value at roughly £23.9m, which is even less than they reportedly want for one of their young talents this summer.

The latest on Jarell Quansah's Liverpool future

According to CaughtOffside, there are six clubs interested in a deal to sign Jarell Quansah from Liverpool in the upcoming summer transfer window.

The report claims that Newcastle United have a long-standing interest in the England U21 international and that they are one of the six clubs eyeing him up.

It states that Everton, Bournemouth, and Brentford are among the other Premier League teams keen on the versatile defender, who can play at right-back or centre-back.

CaughtOffside adds that there is also interest from abroad in the young starlet, as Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen could emerge as suitors for him.

The outlet also reveals that Liverpool would be willing to listen to offers for the academy graduate if any teams come in with bids worth around £30m, but it remains to be seen whether or not any of the aforementioned clubs are prepared to meet their demands.

This latest report shows that the Reds have hit the jackpot on Quansah, who is now worth even more than club captain and leading centre-back Van Dijk.

Why Liverpool should sell Jarrel Quansah

The central defender has been at Liverpool since the age of five, with this year marking 15 years at the club, and this means that they did not have to spend a penny to land the talented youngster.

Market Movers

Football FanCast’s Market Movers series explores the changing landscape of the modern transfer market. How much is your club’s star player or biggest flop worth today?

He was not an expensive signing at academy or first-team level who has come into the senior set-up with expectations or potential that has to be fulfilled to live up to a price tag.

Quansah, instead, rose through the ranks as a homegrown prospect and enjoyed a loan spell at Bristol Rovers before his emergence in the squad under Jurgen Klopp last term.

As shown in the clips above, the English colossus showcased his qualities in and out of possession in his debut campaign to earn himself a senior England call-up last year.

The 22-year-old ace, who was described as a “monster” by scout Jacek Kulig last term, has failed to kick on after his promising performances in the 2023/24 season, though, as he has struggled for game time under Slot.

Appearances

17

11

Goals

2

0

Tackles + interceptions per game

2.5

1.4

Clearances per game

2.3

1.3

Ground duel success rate

60%

50%

Aerial duel success rate

67%

39%

As you can see in the table above, Quansah has played fewer matches, completed fewer defensive actions, and been weaker in duels on the floor and in the air in the Premier League this season compared to last.

Instead of developing and improving with age, it appears as though the English defender has regressed, or stagnated at best, under the Dutch head coach.

This suggests that now could be the right time for Liverpool to cash in on the 22-year-old, who is now valued at £30m, as this could be the peak of his value.

The Reds could run the risk of his form continuing to regress, resulting in his value dropping, if they do not decide to make the most of the current interest in his services from teams across Europe, which is why they should move on from him this summer.

Better move than Huijsen: Liverpool closely following £50m "game-changer"

Liverpool are reportedly interested in a Premier League star who would be an even better signing than Dean Huijsen.

ByDan Emery Apr 16, 2025

Serie A frontrunners Inter Milan are on course to clinch their second Scudetto in a row under Simone Inzaghi, but they face the prospect of losing key players this summer and could be tempted by an ambitious Arsenal bid.

Andrea Berta shortlists Arsenal attacking targets

Andrea Berta officially touched down in north London earlier this month to commence his role as Arsenal’s new sporting director, taking the mantle from previous transfer chief Edu Gaspar, and he’s been tipped for a busy first window at the club.

Arsenal offer "underrated" star a £192k-per-week contract to join Arteta

Andrea Berta is moving with intent ahead of the summer.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 10, 2025

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta anticipates a “big” summer for the Gunners, as he admitted in a press conference last week, even if most of the attention is on putting Real Madrid away in the second leg of their blockbuster Champions League tie.

Brentford (home)

April 12th

Ipswich Town (away)

April 20th

Crystal Palace (home)

April 23rd

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

Amid their potentially fruitful campaign in Europe, one eye remains firmly on Berta’s transfer plans as the Italian reportedly gets to work on strengthening the squad before next season.

Berta has personally held talks with the representatives of Nico Williams, according to reliable media sources, while it is believed the 53-year-old is very much plotting to bring in a prolific new striker.

In the last two weeks, Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres has become more of a top target for Arsenal, while links continue to surround RB Leipzig sensation Benjamin Sesko as well.

Both Gyokeres and Sesko are seen as more viable alternatives to Arteta’s “dream” target, Newcastle United star Alexander Isak, who appears set to be priced out of the market with a valuation of around £150 million.

As we approach Berta’s debut window at N5, we also cannot rule out more left-field options emerging, and one of them is now reported to be Inter captain Lautaro Martinez.

Inter could be tempted by "astronomical" Arsenal bid for Lautaro Martinez

The £265,000-per-week striker has yet again spearheaded Inzaghi’s title charge, scoring 19 goals in all competitions, but his contract runs until 2029, so Inter would be able to demand an extortionate fee for their pivotal star.

This, coupled with his sky-high salary, makes this potential swoop look almost like a non-starter.

However, according to reports from Spain, Arsenal are prepared to make an “astronomical” offer for Martinez, worth in the region of £129 million.

Even though Inter consider the 27-year-old “untouchable”, it is believed Inter could be tempted by Arsenal’s mega-money bid for Martinez, as it is a figure which can “hardly be ignored”.

The Argentina international is not only a prolific goalscorer, but also a real leader, with Inter legend Beppe Bergomi calling him a “true captain”.

“He is more than a top goalscorer, Lautaro is a true captain,” said Bergomi.

“He has a strong sense of belonging and even when he didn’t score for eight games he had a different facial expression than in the past. This is a sign of strong maturity. Then the goals, with time, always arrive.”

Leeds United and the 49ers Enterprises are reportedly well placed to sign a £20m+ player who is sponsored by Adidas.

Leeds drop more Championship points after more Meslier errors

The Whites looked on course for one of two automatic promotion spots in the Championship weeks ago, but a wobble from Daniel Farke’s side has seen them knocked off top spot by Sheffield United.

Just six points from a possible 15 have been collected by Leeds in the previous five games, whereas the Blades and Burnley have both picked up 13.

Leeds United’s final Championship fixtures

Luton Town (A)

Middlesbrough (A)

Preston North End (H)

Oxford United (A)

Stoke City (H)

Bristol City (H)

Plymouth Argyle (A)

Goalkeeper Illan Meslier, after saving a first-half penalty against Swansea City on Saturday, made two errors which led to goals to continue his season to forget at Elland Road.

Talking after the game, Farke refused to call out Meslier and instead backed his side to go up. “It was obvious to see what happened today. It was a typical first game after an international break, it was a scruffy game. We weren’t at our best.

“The team was more or less not together for two weeks, we just had one training session. We spoke at half-time about shaking off the rustiness of the international break and we were much better in the second half.”

“If you ask me right now, I’m 100% convinced that next season we will play in the Premier League.”

Leeds seriously looking to sign £25m star after Meslier's Swansea mistake

Meslier’s mistake against Swansea City could be the final straw for Leeds, as they eye a new goalkeeper this summer.

ByBrett Worthington Apr 1, 2025

Leeds and the 49ers are also planning for the summer transfer window, where they hope they’ll be preparing for Premier League football.

That has shown in the targets they have been identifying, such as former midfielder Kalvin Phillips, Southampton goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale and Rangers midfielder Nicolas Raskin. Now, an update has emerged on the Whites and a move for the Ibrox star.

Leeds well placed to agree move for Rangers star Raskin thanks to 49ers

According to Football Insider reporter Pete O’Rourke, Leeds are well placed to land Raskin this summer due to the 49ers Enterprises’ pending takeover of Rangers.

The Whites are ‘looking to test Rangers’ resolve’ when it comes to Raskin and the 49ers are seen as key, ‘providing a seamless transition between two clubs owned under the same umbrella’.

Raskin, who is now a Belgium international, is thought to be valued at more than £20m by those in Glasgow. Capable of playing as a central or holding midfielder, the 24-year-old has a sponsorship with Adidas and has been praised by the Belgian press following his international debut last month.

“He has that doggedness that the Belgian fans like to see. He was very strong as a breaker, positionally he was good and his passing was also solid to good. A discovery of the national coach at international level.”

Now, should Leeds go up and the 49ers take control at Rangers, a move to Elland Road for Raskin looks like it’s on the cards.

Leeds United picked up a crucial win on Wednesday night, as they beat Chelsea 3-1 to go outside of the relegation zone. With 14 points to their name in as many games, it has certainly been a struggle for Daniel Farke’s side this season.

However, they are in good form. Of course, they beat the Blues this week at Elland Road, and last Saturday were unlucky to drop points away to Manchester City.

Only a goal in the 92nd minute from Phil Foden could sink Farke’s team, who were close to the ideal week in their relegation fight.

Indeed, there have been some standout players over the past few days for the West Yorkshire side.

Leeds’ best players in their last two games

It is hard to pinpoint just a couple of players who have excelled for Farke’s side against two of the Premier League’s title challengers, with the whole squad impressing. However, one player who shone was defender Jayden Bogle.

Against City, he played as a right-back, and won 100% of his tackles and three ground duels coming up against Jeremy Doku. On Wednesday, he had more of an advanced role and made great use of it.

Operating as a wing-back on the right flank, Bogle assisted Ao Tanaka, who made it 2-0 to Leeds on the stroke of half-time.

Another standout from the impressive performances this week was summer signing Lukas Nmecha. The German striker has been in good form this term and added to his goal tally at the Etihad Stadium last weekend. He’s now bagged four times in the top flight this season.

Whilst he didn’t find the back of the net against the Blues, Nmecha still made a real nuisance of himself for the Chelsea backline.

The German was not the only Leeds attacker who stood out in the last week.

From "Bang average" to undroppable

The Whites are not short of attacking options after a busy summer. They already had the likes of Brenden Aaronson, Joel Piroe and Wilfried Gnoto, three of the players at Farke’s disposal, who all played a big role in their promotion.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Nmecha was brought in to add to that depth, as was Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

The former Everton star made the move to West Yorkshire upon the expiry of his contract on Merseyside. It was a tough start to life at Leeds, though.

The 28-year-old did not exactly set the world alight with his start in a Leeds shirt. He’d only managed one goal in his first ten Premier League games, and that was away to bottom-of-the-table Wolverhampton Wanderers.

It meant the England international had to face some criticism for the lack of form in front of goal.

Earlier in the campaign, defender-turned-pundit Michael Dawson said on Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday he was looking “bang average”, following the defeat to Fulham.

However, that form has recently taken a huge upturn. In what have arguably been his side’s two toughest games so far this season, Calvert-Lewin got himself on the scoresheet against both City and Chelsea.

It wasn’t just his goals that made these performances impressive, but the manner in which he played. He was a handful off the ball, winning 15 duels on Wednesday night, and six at the weekend.

He won three fouls in each game, too, making an impact despite having minimal touches.

Touches

15

35

Shots

1

3

Duels won

6

15

Fouls won

3 (1 penalty)

3

Goals

1

1

His performances were enough to earn him a pair of 9/10 ratings from journalist Graham Smyth. Against the Citizens, he praised Calvert-Lewin for the fact that he ‘gave Leeds much more presence’ and said he ‘brought others into play’ superbly against the West Londoners.

With two goals in as many games and some good centre-forward performances outside of that, it is easy to see why Calvert-Lewin could be considered undroppable for Leeds. After a tough start, it seems like he has finally begun to show his best form.

It does seem unlikely that Farke will omit the striker from his starting XI ahead of the game against Liverpool on Saturday. Instead, he will be hoping he provide further troubles for Virgil van Dijk and the rest of the Reds’ defenders.

If Calvert-Lewin can replicate such a performance again, it will go a long way to helping Leeds achieve their goal of Premier League survival.

Best signing since Raphinha: Leeds star is one of "the best" players in PL

Leeds look to have struck gold with one of Farke’s summer signings.

ByJoe Nuttall Dec 4, 2025

West Ham are believed to be in the market for three major signings this January, and could now turn back to a familiar face in pursuit of fresh quality.

The Irons are preparing for what could be a vital transfer window in their quest to ensure Premier League survival. Looking to back new boss Nuno Espírito Santo, with West Ham currently sitting in the relegation zone after a torrid start to 2025/2026, David Sullivan and co have identified three key areas to reinforce.

Nuno’s would seriously benefit from signing a striker and a centre-back in January, while they’re also exploring options in midfield to add depth and quality in that area of the squad (Sky Sports).

In attack, West Ham are apparently targeting an athletic, mobile centre-forward who can provide a different profile to their current options. Al-Ahli’s Ivan Toney is believed to be a target for Nuno’s side in that regard, while reports suggest that Santiago Gimenez of AC Milan is also on West Ham’s radar.

The same can be said of ex-Tottenham striker Troy Parrott, who’s currently enjoying the season of his life at AZ Alkmaar, having also fired the Republic of Ireland to the World Cup play-offs recently.

Sunderland 3-0 West Ham

West Ham 1-5 Chelsea

Nottingham Forest 0-3 West Ham

West Ham 0-3 Tottenham

West Ham 1-2 Crystal Palace

Everton 1-1 West Ham

Arsenal 2-0 West Ham

West Ham 0-2 Brentford

Leeds 2-1 West Ham

West Ham 3-1 Newcastle

West Ham 3-2 Burnley

Parrott’s brace against Portugal, which led Ireland to a 2-0 win over Cristiano Ronaldo’s side, and a hat-trick against Hungary confirmed his country’s place in the draw, with clubs like West Ham apparently taking notice of the 23-year-old’s exceptional form.

The midfield area also requires attention, with West Ham reportedly targeting additions to bolster their options in the number eight role. The club has been linked with moves for the likes of Chelsea starlet Andrey Santos as they look to add technical quality and energy to the middle of the park.

Defensively, West Ham are pursuing reinforcements at centre-back.

They’ve reportedly made a £15.8 million bid to sign Lecce and Portugal Under-21 centre-back Tiago Gabriel already (La Gazzetta dello Sport), though the Italian club has rejected this opening offer and is holding out for around £22 million.

West Ham currently have the second-worst defence in England’s top flight, and despite their glaring need for a forward, Nuno’s backline also demands attention.

West Ham looking to 'reignite' Charlie Cresswell talks

Now, according to ExWHUemployee, they could turn back towards Toulouse defender Charlie Cresswell as an option.

The former Leeds United defender was apparently ‘close to signing’ in the summer window, and West Ham are looking to ‘reignite talks’ over signing Cresswell in January as they attempt to shore up their leaky defence.

Cresswell represents the type of defensive reinforcement West Ham desperately need to address their relegation concerns.

The 23-year-old has demonstrated strong leadership capabilities and excels in aerial situations, while also contributing offensively with three goals last season.

Standing over six feet tall, he’s physically imposing and wins his defensive battles, providing the commanding presence that’s been missing from West Ham’s backline. His move to Toulouse has proven highly successful, with the defender establishing himself among France’s top young centre-backs and helping Toulouse to keep 10 clean sheets in 2024/2025.

His quality has translated to international football too, where he earned praise for his leadership during the recent Under-21 European Championships (GiveMeSport). The England youth international played a key role in his country’s successful title defence, showing he can deliver on the big stage.

Cresswell being homegrown and valued at around £18 million in the summer makes this deal all the more appealing to West Ham, especially considering their limited winter budget.

Chelsea have now reportedly launched their first move to re-sign Antonio Rudiger in what would be a sensational return for the experienced central defender.

It’s no real surprise that the Blues have set their sights on more experience. As impressive as their young squad is, it is still exactly that – young. Enzo Maresca has already suffered the consequences of an inexperienced side at times this season, with Chelsea too inconsistent to seriously challenge for the Premier League title but good enough to secure a top four place.

Against Wolverhampton Wanderers, that quality was on full show as goals from Malo Gusto, Joao Pedro and Pedro Neto wrapped up a comfortable 3-0 defeat. In the same week, however, Chelsea drew 2-2 with Qarabag in a game they should have comfortably won – highlighting their inconsistencies once again.

The addition of a serial, experienced winner could be the missing piece to the puzzle – particularly within Maresca’s backline. The Blues have suffered a number of injuries and suspensions within their back four this season, leaving Maresca with little choice but to come up with internal solutions.

Against Qarabag, 19-year-old Jorrel Hato especially struggled, begging the question as to whether he’s ready to be thrown into the current Chelsea side. Maresca defended his decision to rotate in midweek, but admitted that young players need the chance to make mistakes.

The Italian told reporters: “They are talented, they are young. When they are young you have to give them chance to make mistakes.”

Still, the question of experience will remain and as Rudiger’s contract continues to tick down at Real Madrid, the Blues could have the ultimate solution to their problems lying in wait.

Rudiger makes Real Madrid decision as Chelsea come calling

According to reports in Spain, Chelsea have now made contact with Rudiger over a return to the club in 2026 when he’s set to become a free agent at the end of his Real Madrid contract.

Alas, whilst Rudiger does love the West London club, his preference is to extend with Real Madrid and stay put. Leaving the ball in the Spanish side’s court, the German has less than nine months to get his wish.

If that contract doesn’t arrive, then Chelsea should come swooping in. Rudiger is a two-time Champions League winner these days and one of the most experienced defenders around at 32 years old. He’s led the Blues before and would comfortably do it again.

Chelsea star criticised vs Wolves after having fewer touches than Sanchez

The summer signing endured a tough time against the Old Gold.

1 ByJames O'Reilly Nov 8, 2025

Having previously written in the Players’ Tribune that Chelsea will always be “in his heart”, a return to Stamford Bridge could be the perfect way for Rudiger to close out an excellent career.

Whether Real Madrid and Xabi Alonso will let him leave that easily is another question, though. The Spaniard previously reiterated that the German is “very reliable” and losing that for the cost of nothing next summer is something that the La Liga giants should want to avoid.

Chelsea "actively in talks" over signing "very mature" England international

Tottenham Hotspur are a club who are looking to reach the next level under the guidance of Thomas Frank, with the first-team making huge strides since his appointment.

The Dane has largely worked with the players already at his disposal in North London, but he has also delved into the transfer market to bolster his chances of success in the role.

He spent over £100m on new additions during his first window, with Mohammed Kudus already having a huge impact during his first handful of Premier League outings.

The Ghanaian may have cost £55m in the summer, but he’s been worth every penny, as seen by his tally of one goal and four assists – with the latter the joint-highest of any player in the division.

With the January transfer window rapidly approaching on the horizon, the board and manager will be hoping that any new additions could follow in the same vein in North London.

Spurs’ hunt for added signings in the January window

Over the last couple of weeks, a new striker has been firmly in Spurs’ sights, which has led to numerous names being linked with a winter move to join the Lilywhites.

Dušan Vlahović is just one name on their shortlist, with returning Sporting Director Fabio Paratici no doubt playing a key role given his previous stint at Juventus.

He’s not alone in their sights for a new talisman, as Porto star Samu Aghehowa is also another option, but he could be slightly realistic given the £87m release clause within his current contract.

Other areas of the pitch are also being subject to potential investment, with the winger department also one of interest – leading to Brentford star Kevin Schade being named as one target.

According to CaughtOffside, Paratici is already working on a potential deal for the German, who joined the Bees back in 2023 under Frank’s tenure at the helm.

Another report states that Keith Andrews’ side are reluctant to offload the 23-year-old in the coming months, but could listen to offers in the region of €55m (£48m) for his signature.

Why Spurs’ £48m target could end Johnson’s Spurs career

Brennan Johnson’s time at Spurs has been a rollercoaster to say the least, with the winger often a hugely inconsistent figure within the Spurs first-team.

He joined in a £47.5m deal from Nottingham Forest in the summer of 2023, but came under huge fire from the fanbase for his lack of impact in the first 12 months in North London.

However, his Europa League-winning goal and total of 18 efforts last year subsequently papered over the cracks of his career with the Lilywhites – as seen during the early stages of 2025/26.

The Welsh international has since dropped down the pecking order after Kudus’ arrival, often showing he can’t be relied upon to provide the goods by Frank.

His latest showing showcased his struggles, as Johnson scored the opener against FC Copenhagen, but was subsequently sent off for a rash tackle in the second half.

The manager will no doubt be disappointed with the winger after his actions in the Champions League, which in turn could only fuel rumours over a winter move to land Schade.

When comparing the German’s stats with those of Johnson from the ongoing campaign, he’s managed to outperform him in key areas, which could push the Welshman further down the pecking order.

Schade, who’s been labelled a “world-beater” by Dietmar Hamann, has already achieved a higher tally of combined goals and assists in the Premier League this season.

He’s also placed more of his shots on target so far in 2025/26, arguably making him a more efficient and effective option within in the final third for Frank in North London.

Games played

10

10

Goals & assists

3

2

Shot on target accuracy

46%

40%

Key passes

1.2

0.7

Shot-creating actions

1.6

1.4

Take-on success

32%

25%

Carries into final third

1.1

0.7

Aerials won

2.8

0.4

The German’s talents are further reflected in his higher take-on success rate and tally of key passes completed per 90 – subsequently offering the Lilywhites a phenomenal creative outlet.

His creativity, coupled with his goalscoring prowes,s could make Schade an excellent addition, potentially putting an end to Johnson’s spell at the club as a result.

Frank’s previous stint working with the youngster could also hand the manager another reason to prioritise him over Johnson, with the Dane having the keys to unlocking Schade’s success.

At just 23, he has bags of time to improve in the years ahead, potentially replacing Johnson and playing a key role in any success during the Frank reign at Spurs.

Spurs star is now "very similar to Saka" and he's better than Johnson

Tottenham Hotspur already have a star who could reach the levels achieved by Bukayo Saka.

ByEthan Lamb Nov 6, 2025