Tottenham Hotspur have lived through another intense and often confusing year, one filled with sharp turns, emotional swings, and moments that have tested both players and supporters. Yet, despite all the noise and instability, there has been genuine progress.
Spurs lifted the Europa League trophy, ending a long wait for silverware, and they are slowly shaping a new identity under the calm but firm leadership of Thomas Frank. That success has bought patience, but it has not removed the urgency to improve, especially in the Premier League.
At the halfway stage of the season, Tottenham sit in 14th place. On the surface, that position looks worrying, but the wider picture tells a different story. They are only four points behind fourth-placed Chelsea, and the table remains tightly packed.
Recent defeats have hurt, particularly the last two league games, but even in loss there have been signs of togetherness and fight. The nine-man battle against Liverpool, which ended in a narrow 2–1 defeat, showed a group willing to suffer for each other. Frank has repeatedly asked for patience, and performances like that give weight to his message.
Even so, there is no escaping the fact that Tottenham need more quality in key areas. One of the biggest needs is in attack. Spurs have looked short of cutting edge at times, lacking a player who can create something from nothing, drive at defenders, and turn tight games in their favour.
That is why the club spent so long chasing Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo. However, with Semenyo now closing in on a £65m move to Manchester City, Tottenham have been forced to look elsewhere.
This is where Spurs’ adaptability will be tested. The club does have money to spend, and this winter window represents a real chance to push the project forward rather than simply stand still.
Encouragingly, Tottenham’s interest in attacking reinforcements is genuine, and their attention has now shifted to a name that excites far more than Semenyo ever did.
Reports suggest Spurs are closely monitoring Juventus star Kenan Yildiz, a player many already see as a future world-class talent.
Yildiz is only 20 years old, but he plays with a confidence and maturity far beyond his years. Comfortable as an attacking midfielder and increasingly effective on the left wing, he has become a key figure for Juventus this season.
Contract talks with the Italian giants have stalled, which has alerted several clubs across Europe. Chelsea and Manchester United are both watching the situation, but Tottenham are said to view Yildiz as a dream signing, even with a reported price tag of around £88m.
The price is high, but so is the ceiling. Yildiz has been described as a “generational” talent in Turkey, and that label does not feel exaggerated. Across all competitions this season, he has recorded six goals and six assists in 22 appearances.
Those numbers are impressive for a player of his age, but they only tell part of the story. Yildiz is not just about goals and assists. His movement, intelligence, and bravery on the ball make him stand out every time he plays.
When comparing him directly with Semenyo, it becomes clearer why Tottenham might see Yildiz as the superior long-term option. While Semenyo is powerful, direct, and ready-made for the Premier League, Yildiz offers more variety, more creativity, and arguably a higher overall ceiling.
A simple look at their league numbers shows how closely matched they already are, despite the age difference and the different leagues they play in.
Below is a clear comparison of their current league performances:
| Stat (per game where applicable) | Antoine Semenyo | Kenan Yildiz |
|---|---|---|
| Matches (starts) | 16 (16) | 15 (14) |
| Goals | 8 | 5 |
| Assists | 3 | 4 |
| Touches | 48.9 | 53.3 |
| Shots (on target) | 2.4 (1.3) | 2.4 (1.0) |
| Accurate passes | 19.9 (77%) | 27.2 (82%) |
| Chances created | 1.4 | 2.3 |
| Successful dribbles | 1.6 | 1.3 |
| Ball recoveries | 5.1 | 3.7 |
| Tackles + interceptions | 1.9 | 0.8 |
These numbers highlight an important point. Semenyo is more physical and defensive, while Yildiz offers greater control, creativity, and involvement in build-up play.
Tottenham have often struggled to unlock deep defences this season, and Yildiz’s ability to create chances and progress the ball would directly address that weakness.
Advanced data supports this view. Over the past year, Yildiz ranks among the top performers in Europe’s top five leagues for shot-creating actions and successful take-ons.
In simple terms, he is very good at making things happen in dangerous areas and beating his man while keeping the ball. Spurs have lacked that spark too often, relying heavily on structure rather than individual brilliance.
What makes Yildiz even more appealing is his age. At just 20, he has room to grow, learn, and improve, especially under a coach like Thomas Frank, who has shown he can develop young talent.
While Semenyo is enjoying the best period of his career right now, Yildiz’s best years are still ahead of him. That difference matters when spending huge money.
Tottenham are rebuilding their identity, and signings must fit not just the present but the future. Yildiz would bring flair, confidence, and star power back to the side.
He would excite the crowd, lift teammates, and give Spurs a player they can build around for years. Semenyo may be the name on everyone’s lips today, but Yildiz looks like the player who could define Tottenham’s tomorrow.
