Sources: £9m manager emerging as top contender to replace Postecoglou at Tottenham after Silva says no

Tottenham Hotspur are currently facing a pivotal moment in their managerial direction, with growing uncertainty around Ange Postecoglou’s future.

Despite delivering the club’s first piece of silverware in 17 years by guiding Spurs to a Europa League triumph, his position remains under scrutiny following a disastrous Premier League campaign.

The 2024/25 season saw Tottenham slump to a staggering 17th place, with 22 defeats across 38 games, marking their worst-ever showing in the competition.

While European success momentarily eased pressure, it hasn’t erased concerns within the boardroom. Daniel Levy, alongside technical director Johan Lange and returning consultant Fabio Paratici, continues to deliberate whether a change is necessary to stabilize domestic form.

Among the potential successors, Brentford’s Thomas Frank has emerged as a strong candidate. Sources close to the club suggest that Frank’s name is gaining traction internally, partly due to his successful Premier League tenure and long-standing working relationship with Johan Lange.

This connection could be crucial if Tottenham decide to part ways with Postecoglou. According to football journalist Ben Jacobs, Spurs are unlikely to confirm any decision until Postecoglou begins his post-season break, indicating that the next few weeks will be critical behind the scenes.

Thomas Frank, who has overseen Brentford since 2018, continues to build an impressive reputation in English football.

Under his leadership, Brentford have established themselves in the Premier League, achieving stability and even occasional top-half finishes—an impressive feat for a club of their size.

Frank’s tactical discipline, ability to nurture talent, and consistent performance across multiple seasons position him as a viable candidate for Tottenham’s hot seat. His release clause, reportedly around £9 million, would represent one of the highest managerial buyouts in football history, underscoring the high regard in which he is held.

Despite that steep figure, Tottenham may see it as a worthwhile investment given the dire need for a domestic reset.

The financial implications of recruiting Frank, combined with his familiarity with Lange and his proven record in the league, make him an attractive option.

However, Brentford are understandably keen to retain their manager, especially after securing another solid finish in the top half of the table.

Should Tottenham make a formal move, it could create significant upheaval at Brentford and force them into an unexpected managerial search of their own.

Here’s a summary of Frank’s Premier League performance at Brentford over the past four seasons:

Over his total tenure, Frank has managed 317 games for Brentford and secured 132 victories, reflecting his consistency and long-term value. These statistics, paired with his player development track record and club-building mentality, have made him one of the most respected coaches outside the traditional top six.

Meanwhile, the situation with Postecoglou remains delicate. Winning a European title brought joy to fans and players alike, but it has done little to overshadow the glaring issues at home.

The team’s lack of cohesion, poor defensive displays, and inability to adapt tactically during crucial fixtures have led many to question whether the Australian coach can navigate the challenges of managing a top Premier League side.

His motivational qualities and engaging public persona may not be enough if results continue to falter on the domestic front.

Should the board decide to retain Postecoglou, the pressure to improve dramatically next season will be immense. If they opt for a fresh start, Thomas Frank appears to be the frontrunner, not only because of his track record but also due to his alignment with Tottenham’s broader sporting vision.

Whatever the outcome, it’s evident that the club is at a crossroads. The next managerial decision will not only shape the upcoming campaign but could define the trajectory of Tottenham’s project for years to come.