Reports suggest that Tottenham Hotspur have set their sights on making two signings in the January transfer window, with one position attracting attention from Liverpool and Leicester. Under the guidance of manager Ange Postecoglou, Spurs have been performing exceptionally well and will approach their upcoming match against Chelsea with confidence, hoping to maintain their unbeaten streak.
According to Football Insider, Postecoglou is eager to strengthen the squad through mid-season acquisitions. The intention is to add depth in two areas: center-half and central midfield. During the summer, Tottenham made attempts to secure two established center-backs but were only successful in signing Micky van de Ven from Wolfsburg for a significant fee of £43m. Ashley Phillips, an 18-year-old prospect from Blackburn Rovers, was also brought in but is considered a long-term investment. With limited options beyond Cristian Romero and Van de Ven, Tottenham is concerned about the thinness of their defensive lineup. Also, recent reports indicate that Eric Dier is keen to leave the club, potentially leaving on a free transfer at the end of the season.
One player Tottenham pursued over the summer was Lloyd Kelly from Bournemouth. Although their £20m offer was rejected, there have been rumors of a possible mid-season sale as Kelly’s contract expires next summer. AC Milan and Juventus have shown interest, as have Liverpool. However, Bournemouth is reluctant to entertain a mid-season sale, fearing the impact it would have on their chances of avoiding relegation.
In terms of central midfield, two names have gained attention lately, putting Liverpool and Leicester on alert. Spurs reportedly scouted Fluminense’s Andre during the Copa Libertadores final. At 22 years old, the Brazilian international is expected to make a move once the January window opens, with a release clause of approximately £34.6m making him an attractive prospect. Additionally, Tottenham has shown interest in Leicester’s Wilfred Ndidi, who is also being pursued by Newcastle, Aston Villa, and Brentford. European clubs are also monitoring the situation. Ndidi’s contract with the Foxes expires next year, allowing him to sign a pre-contract agreement with overseas teams from January 1. Premier League clubs will need to make tempting offers to secure his services, with Leicester likely preferring a domestic sale to recover a transfer fee.
Given the impending departures of Yves Bissouma and Pape Sarr for the Africa Cup of Nations in early 2024, Tottenham’s pursuit of a central midfielder is seen as more pressing.
