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Spurs enter negotiations for £43m “future legend”

Tottenham Hotspur have a huge campaign ahead of them in 2025/26 – needing to right the wrongs of the previous year, but also build on their remarkable achievements.

The Lilywhites finished in a measly 17th place in the Premier League last time around, but managed to end their trophy drought – claiming Europa League glory over Manchester United back in May.

However, it wasn’t enough for Ange Postecoglou to keep his job, subsequently seeing Thomas Frank take the reins and be the man responsible for any revival and or future success.

Undoubtedly, the Dane will have wanted to make his additions to the side, already landing Mohammed Kudus and Joao Palhinha from West Ham United and Bayern Munich, respectively.

There’s no denying that further work needs to be done this summer to aid the new manager’s hunt for top-flight success – but the side are rapidly running out of time, with just over a week left in the summer window.

Tottenham Hotspur manager Thomas Frank celebrates after the match
Tottenham Hotspur manager Thomas Frank celebrates after the match

Spurs’ hunt for a new attacking midfielder this summer

Over the last couple of days, Spurs have been in direct contact with Serie A side Como over a potential deal to land 20-year-old Nico Paz before the window slams shut.

It’s been reported that the Italian outfit are currently demanding a fee in the region of £60m for the youngster, who registered 14 combined goals and assists in 2024/25.

However, he’s not the only number ten in their sights at present, leading to rumours over a potential late move to secure the signature of PSG star Kang-in Lee.

It’s been reported by Duncan Castles that talks have been held between the clubs over a deal for the South Korean international, who’s been allowed to depart the Champions League winners this summer.

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PSG’s Kang-in Lee lifts the Super Cup.

He also stated that Luis Enrique’s side are currently demanding a fee in the region of €50m (£43m) for the 24-year-old, who made 45 appearances across all competitions last campaign.

Whilst he remains a viable target for Frank’s side this summer, a deal could’ve easily been wrapped up for another player now, had owner Daniel Levy stepped up a move for a previous target.

Why Spurs’ £43m target is the dream Eze alternative

After previously missing out on Morgan Gibbs-White, Eberechi Eze became Spurs’ number one target for the attacking midfielder department this summer.

At one stage, it seemed as though a deal appeared to be a formality, after the Lilywhites entered advanced talks with Crystal Palace – even agreeing a fee with the Eagles for his signature.

However, in the last couple of days, a deal has evaporated in front of their very eyes, as North London rivals Arsenal swooped in late on and all but completing a deal for the 27-year-old.

Arsenal Eze

Such a deal has led to questions being asked about the owner, especially after it’s the second time in one window a deal has failed to be completed despite agreements being made in principle.

Whilst disappointment is still being felt by the Lilywhites, Levy has the chance to make amends by finalising a move for Lee in the next couple of days.

The midfielder may be available for transfer this summer, but it’s not reflecting of his quality, with the South Korean producing numerous impressive figures in Ligue 1 last campaign.

When comparing such numbers with those of Eze, he managed to better him in key areas, arguably being the best alternative to the Englishman after missing out on his signature.

Lee-Kang-in-and-Kylian-Mbappe-PSG

Lee, who’s been labelled a “future legend” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, achieved a better goal and assist rate per 90, whilst posting a higher shot on target accuracy rate – arguably offering Frank’s side a more clinical option in front of goal.

However, his ability to create chances for his teammates also shone through last season – possessing arguably the most important asset for an attacking midfielder in abundance.

How Lee & Eze compared throughout 2024/25

Statistics (per 90)

Lee

Eze

Games played

30

34

Goals & assists

12

16

Goals & assists per 90

0.65

0.56

Shot on target accuracy

34%

27%

Pass accuracy

88%

74%

Key passes made

3.1

2

Passes into final third

5.6

1.7

Take-ons completed

57%

48%

Carries into final third

2.4

1.6

Crosses completed

5.1

3.8

Stats via FBref

He completed more key passes and passes into the final third per 90, highlighting he would provide the Lilywhites with a more threatening talent than Eze in forward areas.

Taking people on is also another huge factor in the 24-year-old’s game, notching a higher take-on success rate – which has allowed him to get into dangerous positions, before providing the end product needed – as seen by his aforementioned stats.

Missing out on Eze would be a bitter disappointment, but it could prove to be a blessing if they complete a deal for the PSG star – allowing the side to land a much cheaper and younger alternative in the process.

However, a deal will need to be wrapped up as soon as possible, with Levy needing to satisfy the manager and the fans after what has been a hugely humbling summer window.


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