Spurs in the mix to sign “one of the best 10s in the world”, he’d help Frank forget Eze

Tottenham Hotspur began life under Thomas Frank with a bright result, winning their opening game of the Premier League season against Burnley.

The victory gave fans some early hope, but away from the pitch the mood has been far less encouraging.

Supporters expected a strong summer in the transfer market, but many feel Daniel Levy and the board have once again fallen short.

Spurs have spent around £85 million so far, with Mohammed Kudus arriving from West Ham and Mathys Tel coming in from Bayern Munich. Both players are promising signings, yet many believe they should have been joined by Morgan Gibbs-White.

Tottenham triggered his £60m release clause at Nottingham Forest but still failed to close the deal, leaving fans frustrated and questioning the ambition of the ownership.

The disappointment deepened with the pursuit of Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze. For weeks Tottenham looked in pole position to sign him, and negotiations even reached the point where an agreement with the player seemed secure.

After missing out on Gibbs-White, Eze became their main target. However, despite months of talks, Spurs once again failed to get it over the line. Their delay opened the door for Arsenal, who swooped in and hijacked the deal at the last moment.

The Gunners reached agreements with Palace and Eze, and now the attacking midfielder looks set to move across North London. For Spurs supporters, it was another painful reminder of missed opportunities.

This setback has left Tottenham scrambling for alternatives before the transfer window closes. One name heavily linked is Leicester City’s Bilal El Khannouss, but Palace are also pushing hard to sign him as a direct replacement for Eze.

Another possible target is Lucas Paqueta of West Ham. Reports suggest his asking price has been reduced from £80m to £40m, making him an appealing option.

At 27, Paqueta is an experienced international who could provide exactly what Frank needs in the number ten role.

The need for reinforcements is even more urgent given James Maddison’s ACL injury, which is expected to keep him out for six to seven months.

Former captain Son Heung-min has already departed for MLS side Los Angeles FC, while Dejan Kulusevski is still recovering from a serious knee injury.

With no natural attacking midfielder available, Spurs had to use Pape Sarr in that position last weekend, a solution that highlights the lack of depth in the squad.

Paqueta could fill that gap. His creativity, ball control, and ability to win fouls make him difficult to defend against.

Unlike Eze, who has often thrived as a dribbler, Paqueta offers a more complete package as both a playmaker and a scorer.

When comparing their performances from last season, Paqueta actually outperformed Eze in several important areas, despite playing in a less attacking West Ham team.

Here is a comparison of their key stats from the 2024/25 season:

Statistics (per 90)	Paqueta	Eze
Games played	33	34
Goals & assists	4	16
Goals per shot on target	0.7	0.2
Pass accuracy	77%	74%
Passes into final third	5.1	1.7
Passes into the opposition box	1.7	1.3
Take-on success	49%	48%
Aerials won	46%	15%
Fouls won	2.4	1.7

While Eze’s goal contributions stand out, Paqueta’s efficiency in possession and his ability to deliver passes into dangerous areas make him a valuable option.

He is more clinical in front of goal, wins more aerial duels, and consistently breaks opposition lines with his distribution. His higher foul count also reflects how often defenders struggle to contain him.

At £40m, Paqueta represents a bargain compared to the £60m deal Spurs were chasing for Eze. Signing him would not only silence criticism of the board but also give Frank the playmaker he desperately needs.

With the clock ticking down to the transfer deadline, Tottenham cannot afford more hesitation. If they want to compete at the highest level, securing Paqueta could be the move that saves their summer.