Tottenham Hotspur are preparing to reshape their squad in January, and one of the biggest decisions now appears to involve Brennan Johnson. Sources indicate that Spurs have effectively given the green light for the Welsh winger to leave during the winter window, with the club adjusting its strategy to make an exit more realistic.
While a permanent sale was initially preferred, Tottenham are now open to a loan move if that proves to be the best solution for both player and club.
Johnson has featured 20 times for Spurs this season, but the numbers only tell part of the story. Half of those appearances have come from the bench, and there is a growing acceptance inside the club that he is not a natural fit for Thomas Frank’s plans.
Johnson arrived in north London with high expectations following his big-money move from Nottingham Forest, but consistency and trust have been hard to come by under the new manager.
Tottenham were initially hoping to recover most, if not all, of the £47.5 million they spent to sign the winger. However, the reality of the market has forced a rethink.
Clubs interested in Johnson are hesitant to meet that valuation, especially given his limited role this season. With that in mind, Spurs believe a temporary move could help rebuild his confidence, increase his value, and open the door to a more lucrative sale in the summer.
Crystal Palace were among the first clubs to make their interest known. Palace manager Oliver Glasner sees Johnson as a useful option, particularly with Ismaila Sarr away on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations.
A move across London would offer Johnson familiarity with the Premier League and a clearer pathway to regular minutes. However, Palace are not alone in the race.
Bournemouth are also closely monitoring the situation. The south coast club are weighing up contingency plans in case Antoine Semenyo leaves in January, and Johnson is viewed as a player who could slot straight into their attacking system.
His pace, work rate, and experience at Premier League level make him an appealing option for a side that values intensity and direct play.
Aston Villa have likewise kept an eye on developments. While no formal move has been made yet, Villa see Johnson as a player who could add depth and versatility to their wide areas. There is also growing belief that a move abroad remains a possibility, with several European clubs enquiring about his availability ahead of the new year.
From Johnson’s perspective, the situation is becoming increasingly clear. At 24, he wants to play football regularly, especially with international ambitions still very much alive.
Sitting on the bench at Tottenham is not helping his development, and sources suggest he is open to leaving if it means securing consistent first-team action. A loan move, in particular, appeals as it allows him to reset without fully closing the door on his Spurs future.
While Johnson’s potential departure is being carefully managed, Tottenham are already looking ahead. Strengthening the wide attacking positions has become a priority for Frank, who wants more reliability and cutting edge from his wingers.
A left-sided attacker is seen as especially important, and the club have identified several ambitious targets.
Antoine Semenyo remains high on Tottenham’s list. Despite strong interest from Manchester City and Liverpool, Spurs believe they are firmly in the mix.
There is even talk that the club would be willing to significantly increase their wage offer to secure the Ghana international, underlining how serious they are about upgrading their options out wide. Such a move would send a clear message about Tottenham’s intent to compete at the top level.
Another name drawing attention is RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande. Tottenham are one of several Premier League clubs tracking the highly rated Ivory Coast international, who is considered one of the most exciting young talents in Europe.
However, any deal would be extremely difficult. Leipzig value Diomande at well over €100 million, and with no release clause in his contract, negotiations would be complex and expensive. While a move in January looks unlikely, Spurs are keen to keep close tabs on his progress.
Tottenham’s January plans do not stop at the wings. The club have also held discussions regarding Ruben Neves, with sources confirming that talks have taken place with his representatives.
Al-Hilal are open to selling the midfielder back to Europe, and Spurs remain long-term admirers of his leadership, passing range, and experience. While competition is expected, Tottenham see Neves as someone who could instantly raise the level of their midfield.
Up front, the situation is equally challenging. Spurs have been informed that landing one of their top striker targets would require a fee of around £70 million.
This forward has outscored Tottenham’s recognised strikers combined this season, making him an attractive but costly option. Whether the club are willing to commit that level of investment in January remains to be seen.
All signs point to a busy and decisive winter window for Tottenham. Brennan Johnson’s likely exit, whether on loan or permanently, is just one piece of a much bigger puzzle. For Thomas Frank, the aim is clear. He wants players who fit his system, deliver consistently, and help push the club forward. January will reveal just how bold Spurs are willing to be.
