Thomas Frank could be forgiven for feeling like he has stepped into a dream scenario as fresh details emerge about Tottenham Hotspur’s January transfer plans, with one name in particular sending excitement through the fanbase.
Trusted transfer insider David Ornstein has offered a clear picture of what Spurs are hoping to do when the window opens, and his comments suggest the club are ready to act boldly if the right opportunity presents itself.
Tottenham’s hierarchy have not been idle during Frank’s first six months in charge. While results have been mixed and performances inconsistent, there is a strong belief inside the club that the foundations are being laid for something sustainable.
Fabio Paratici and Johan Lange have been working quietly behind the scenes, studying the market and identifying areas where the squad needs more quality, depth, and energy. The aim is simple: give Frank the tools he needs to push Spurs closer to the European places and restore confidence around the club.
There has already been discussion around several positions. Tottenham are aware that goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario has struggled at times this season, and there is an acceptance that competition or cover may be required.
Defensive depth is also under review, with centre-back options stretched and central midfield lacking consistency at key moments. Yet for all of that, the clearest focus remains in attack, where Spurs feel a difference-maker could transform their season.
The left-wing role has been highlighted as a priority, along with the possible addition of another striker. It is in that context that Ornstein’s comments have really caught attention, especially his mention of Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo.
For many Tottenham supporters, Semenyo represents the kind of direct, powerful, and fearless attacker they have been craving. He brings pace, strength, and goals, and his Premier League form has not gone unnoticed.
Speaking on Sky Sports’ Back Pages podcast, Ornstein explained that Tottenham will have money to spend in January if the right profile becomes available.
He stressed that Spurs are not looking to spend for the sake of it, but they are willing to act decisively if they believe a signing will genuinely improve the team. That message alone will have reassured fans who fear another quiet or cautious window.
Ornstein confirmed that Tottenham “like” Semenyo and have been tracking him closely. While there is no confirmation of a formal bid yet, the interest is real. Semenyo’s numbers speak for themselves.
He is among the league’s top scorers this season, has been a driving force for Bournemouth, and plays with the kind of intensity that fits Frank’s philosophy. There is also the added intrigue of a reported £65 million release clause that is said to be active early in the January window, creating a narrow window of opportunity.
What makes this even more interesting is the level of competition. Semenyo is admired by Liverpool, Manchester United, and Manchester City, which tells its own story about his quality.
Tottenham know that to win this race, they may need to break from past habits. There are indications the club would be willing to stretch their wage structure to secure a deal, a move that would underline just how serious they are about backing Frank.
Another name Ornstein mentioned was Savinho, and that came as a surprise to many. Tottenham chased the Brazilian winger in the summer but failed to get a deal over the line.
At the time, it felt like that door had closed. Savinho has since signed a new contract and is now part of Pep Guardiola’s plans at Manchester City. On the surface, it seems unlikely that Spurs would be able to revive their interest.
However, football moves quickly, especially in January. Savinho has spent much of the season behind Jeremy Doku in the pecking order, but with the Belgian sidelined for several weeks through injury, the Brazilian could now enjoy an extended run in the City side.
If that happens, Guardiola may be reluctant to let him go. On the other hand, if City move quickly for Semenyo themselves, it could trigger a domino effect that makes Savinho available again later in the window. Tottenham are watching closely, even if the odds remain slim.
Beyond individual names, there is a wider feeling that Tottenham cannot afford to stand still. Son Heung-min has been a legendary figure for the club, but there is growing acceptance that a long-term successor should already be in place.
Failing to properly address that transition in the summer is now seen by many as a missed opportunity. January offers a chance to correct that mistake, even if it comes at a premium.
There are also other storylines bubbling under the surface. Brennan Johnson’s future continues to be monitored by rival clubs, while Spurs are pushing hard behind the scenes for some of Europe’s brightest young talents.
The club is trying to strike a balance between immediate impact and long-term planning, something that has not always been easy in recent years.
For Thomas Frank, this all represents hope. January windows are rarely perfect, but the message coming from respected voices like Ornstein is clear.
Tottenham are prepared to act, they know where they need to improve, and they are not afraid to dream big. If even one of these ambitious targets becomes reality, it could change the mood around the club overnight and give Frank the spark he needs to turn promise into progress.
