Tottenham Hotspur are pushing hard in the transfer market as they attempt to secure a Brazilian addition, even after seeing their opening offer firmly knocked back. At the same time, their search for a sharp and reliable winger has suffered yet another frustrating setback, adding to a growing list of near misses in wide areas.
The club continue to move forward under Thomas Frank, who remains closely involved in recruitment plans this week. While pressure from sections of the fanbase has increased, especially with Chelsea and Manchester United making changes in the dugout, there is no immediate danger to Frank’s position.
Spurs are sticking to a longer-term approach, giving the Danish coach time to build a squad that reflects his ideas and energy. Part of that process includes allowing him real influence in transfer discussions as negotiations with targets progress.
One clear priority identified weeks ago was the need for a left-sided defender, and Tottenham have been actively pursuing Santos left-back Souza. Initial talks suggested the deal would not be straightforward, and that prediction proved accurate when an opening bid of around £8 million was quickly rejected by the Brazilian club.
Despite that early knockback, Tottenham have refused to walk away and remain determined to force a breakthrough.
Sources close to the situation suggest Spurs have kept lines of communication open and are working hard behind the scenes to find common ground.
The club believe the player fits their long-term plans and are willing to push further, though there is an understanding that patience will not be endless. If there is no meaningful progress in the next few days, attention could turn to alternative options, but for now the focus remains firmly on Souza.
The situation is complicated by growing interest from other major clubs. Chelsea, through their BlueCo structure, Manchester City via the CityGroup network, and Newcastle United are all monitoring Souza’s situation.
Santos, aware of the attention, are standing firm on their valuation. They are believed to be seeking around €20 million, almost double Tottenham’s initial proposal. On Wednesday afternoon, Spurs returned with an improved offer worth around €15 million, and the outcome of that bid is expected to become clear very soon.
While work continues on the defensive front, Tottenham have been dealt more disappointing news in their hunt for a dangerous winger. After stepping away from a move for Antoine Semenyo, despite being prepared to make him one of the club’s highest earners, Spurs turned their attention to RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande.
Fresh checks were made to assess his availability, but the response from Germany was blunt. Leipzig have made it clear that Diomande is not for sale in this window, closing the door on another potential attacking solution.
This string of rejections has left Tottenham frustrated, particularly given the need to add cutting edge out wide. It remains unclear whether Spurs will immediately pivot to another winger target or wait for a better opportunity to emerge later in the window.
Elsewhere, Tottenham are also rethinking their stance on Joao Palhinha. The club appear to be cooling on the idea of activating a £26 million option to buy, a decision that has alerted rival clubs in London.
Unlike Spurs, those rivals are expected to act quickly if there is an opening to secure the Portugal international, which could leave Tottenham watching from the sidelines.
Despite that hesitation, the club are stepping up efforts to bring in a new midfielder this week. Thomas Frank has made it clear he wants a high-energy presence who can drive the team forward, add intensity, and bring fresh legs into the middle of the pitch.
Talks are ongoing, and there is a belief inside the club that progress could be made quickly if the right profile becomes available.
Finally, Tottenham are also among several Premier League sides keeping a close eye on Toulouse defender Dayann Methalie. The 19-year-old has caught the attention of scouts with his athleticism and composure, and Spurs are monitoring his development as part of a wider strategy to invest in young talent with high potential.
Overall, it is a busy and demanding period for Tottenham. While obstacles continue to appear, particularly in their pursuit of wide attackers, the club remain active, determined, and focused on giving Thomas Frank the tools he needs to shape the squad in his image.
