Tottenham Hotspur look determined to make the most of the January transfer window, with reports suggesting the club are on the verge of completing their second signing in quick succession.
After moving decisively to secure Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid, Spurs appear keen to keep the momentum going as they reshape the squad for the second half of the season.
Gallagher’s arrival was a clear statement of intent. The England international brings energy, leadership, and Premier League experience to a midfield that has often lacked bite and consistency.
Tottenham acted swiftly to get the deal done, handing Gallagher a long-term contract that runs until the summer of 2031. It showed a level of planning and confidence that supporters have been craving, and it also hinted that the club were not finished yet.
Now, attention has turned to a young defensive talent from Brazil. Reports claim Tottenham have reached a full agreement with Santos for the signing of teenage defender Souza.
According to sources in Spain and Brazil, the deal is effectively complete, with only the final formal steps remaining. Souza is expected to travel to England shortly to undergo a medical and finalise the paperwork that will make him a Tottenham player.
The structure of the deal has attracted some attention. Santos do not own 100 percent of Souza’s rights, as the player himself holds a portion.
However, it has been reported that Souza has agreed to give up those rights to ensure the move goes through smoothly. This gesture has been seen as a sign of his desire to join Tottenham and take the next step in his career.
Financially, the transfer is also significant for Santos. Brazilian outlets report that the club will receive a fee of around £13 million from Tottenham. This money is badly needed, as Santos are currently dealing with serious financial pressures.
The club has been trying to avoid further punishment from FIFA due to outstanding debts, and the sale of Souza is expected to play a key role in easing those concerns.
A major issue for Santos comes from a dispute with Portuguese side Estoril Praia. The Portuguese club filed a lawsuit after Santos signed defender Joao Basso on loan, leading to a legal and financial battle that has dragged on.
Santos reportedly owe Estoril around £2.8 million, and that sum must be paid within a 45-day window to prevent a transfer ban from being imposed.
The funds from Tottenham are expected to be used to settle this debt. Santos president Marcelo Teixeira has already spoken openly about the club’s efforts to balance their finances.
He confirmed that large sums were paid in 2024 to lift or avoid transfer bans and stressed that selling players is sometimes necessary to keep the club stable. From Santos’ point of view, the deal with Tottenham is not just about football, but about survival and long-term planning.
For Tottenham, the focus is on getting the deal over the line as soon as possible. The club want Souza to be officially announced and integrated without delay.
While he may not be expected to step straight into the starting eleven, he is viewed as a player with strong potential who can be developed over time. Tottenham’s recent recruitment strategy has leaned more towards signing younger players with room to grow, rather than short-term fixes.
Thomas Frank’s influence can already be felt in this approach. The Tottenham manager has been clear about what he wants from new signings, especially in the January window.
He has repeatedly spoken about the importance of character and commitment, making it clear that talent alone is not enough. For Frank, players must fully buy into the project and understand the standards expected of them.
In comments made last month, Frank stressed that alignment between the club, the coaching staff, and the players is vital. He believes that when everyone shares the same values and goals, it becomes easier to demand discipline and accountability. This mindset has shaped Tottenham’s transfer plans, and it is believed that Souza’s attitude and willingness to make sacrifices impressed the club during negotiations.
If the deal is completed as expected, Souza will become Tottenham’s second signing of the window, following Gallagher through the door. While the two players are at very different stages of their careers, both moves point towards a clear plan.
Tottenham are looking to blend experience with youth, strengthen key areas, and build a squad that is not only more talented, but more united.
For supporters, this flurry of activity offers a sense of optimism. Tottenham have often been criticised for moving too slowly in transfer windows, but this time the club appear proactive and decisive. If Souza’s arrival is confirmed, it would underline Spurs’ intent to back their manager and lay foundations not just for the rest of this season, but for years to come.
