Tottenham Hotspur were already preparing for a busy January transfer window, but events over the weekend have only increased the urgency around recruitment. Head coach Thomas Frank has now openly admitted that his squad is short in key areas, especially in attack, following a fresh injury setback.
Spurs suffered a blow during their recent outing against Sunderland when Mohammed Kudus picked up a thigh problem. The 25-year-old is due to undergo a scan to determine how serious the injury is, but even before the results are known, the timing could hardly be worse for Frank.
Tottenham currently sit 13th in the Premier League table after a frustrating start to the season, and squad depth has already been a concern long before Kudus limped off.
The situation in attack has become even more complicated by the departure of Brennan Johnson, who has completed a move to Crystal Palace. With Johnson gone and Kudus sidelined, Tottenham suddenly find themselves short of natural wide options.
Frank is now facing the prospect of travelling to Bournemouth without a recognised right winger, a scenario that underlines how thin the squad has become in forward areas.
While attacking reinforcements are now a clear priority, Tottenham are also working behind the scenes to strengthen defensively. Cover at left-back is another area being actively explored. Reports suggest Spurs recently had an £8 million bid rejected for a highly rated young defender from Santos.
Although it remains unclear whether the club will return with an improved offer, the interest itself shows Tottenham are searching for someone who can provide competition and support for Destiny Udogie, who has carried a heavy workload.
Frank has not tried to hide the reality of the situation. Speaking ahead of the midweek trip to Bournemouth, he acknowledged that the squad is currently lacking enough attacking options to cope with injuries and departures.
His comments offered a clear hint that reinforcements are expected sooner rather than later. At the same time, he dismissed the idea of sending Mathys Tel out on loan, despite the youngster’s limited starts in the league this season.
Tel has only started four Premier League matches so far, but he made a strong impression when introduced from the left against Sunderland. His energy and directness gave Spurs a different dimension, strengthening his case for more regular involvement.
Frank’s decision to keep him around suggests the club see him as part of the solution rather than someone to be moved on.
With injuries mounting and the league table offering little comfort, Tottenham’s January window now feels critical. Frank’s admission that his side are “a little bit short on offensive options” was honest and revealing. It also served as a clear signal to supporters that the club is preparing to act, knowing that smart additions could be vital if Spurs are to turn their season around.
