adminPersonal terms no issue: Spurs open fresh talks to sign their answer to Vinicius Junior – opinion
A New Dawn at Tottenham – But How Far Can They Go?
The atmosphere at Tottenham Hotspur feels worlds apart from the gloom of last summer. After a busy and ambitious transfer window, there’s genuine excitement back in N17 – a stark contrast to the disappointment that defined the club just 12 months ago.
Back then, Spurs missed out on several top targets despite securing Europa League football. The appointment of Thomas Frank failed to spark optimism, and his blunt admission that the team “would lose games” hardly helped matters.
This time around, however, the mood is different. Roberto De Zerbi brings a swagger and ambition that Frank never quite mustered, and the Italian has already hinted that the club’s business is only “60% complete” – even after landing big-name signings like Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali.
So, with more moves likely on the horizon, what might Tottenham’s starting XI look come the 2026/27 season?
Between the Sticks and in Defence
In goal, Antonín Kinský appears to have cemented his place. The young Czech shot-stopper has rebuilt his reputation impressively since that memorable night in Madrid, most recently producing a stunning save against Chelsea that reminded everyone of his quality.
Ahead of him, Pedro Porro looks certain to start – De Zerbi has even called him the “best right-back in the world.” With Cristian Romero’s future uncertain, Jan Paul van Hecke and Marcos Senesi are tipped to partner in central defence, which could see Micky van de Ven shift to left-back.
Midfield Muscle and Creative Spark
In the engine room, the £185 million duo of Tonali and Fernandes are expected to anchor the midfield, fitness permitting. Further forward, with James Maddison still regaining full sharpness and Xavi Simons sidelined, Conor Gallagher could step into the advanced role – a position where the 26-year-old previously excelled during his Chelsea days.
Attack – Promise, Intrigue, and a Potential Wildcard
The frontline is where things get really interesting. Manchester City’s Savinho is widely expected to arrive and slot in on the left wing, while returning loanee Mohammed Kudus looks set to operate on the right.
Up front, Dominic Solanke’s injury woes and Richarlison’s uncertain future might force a creative solution – with Cody Gakpo, though not a traditional striker, potentially deployed as a central option.
The Next Big Thing? Spurs Eye Their Own Vini Jr
Beyond the immediate starting XI, Tottenham are clearly signaling their intent to compete with the Premier League elite – and that means unearthing gems before they become superstars. One name generating serious buzz is Lyon’s Malick Fofana.
Spurs have reportedly opened talks with the 21-year-old’s representatives, though an initial €26m (£23m) bid has already been turned down. Personal terms are said to be no obstacle, with the Belgian winger keen on a move to north London.
On paper, Fofana started just nine Ligue 1 games last season, contributing only three goals and assists combined. But numbers don’t tell the full story. Youth football expert Jacek Kulig has compared him to Vinícius Júnior, rating him a 9.5/10 talent – and it’s easy to see why.
Fofana is explosive, lightning-fast, and a constant threat in behind defences. Statistically, he ranks in the top 1% of wingers across Europe’s top five leagues for received through balls per 90, and sits in the top 7% for big-chance involvement and top 12% for progressive carries. Those are exactly the kind of numbers that echo a young Vini Jr – who himself ranks in the top 1% for progressive carries.
Some scouts have even drawn comparisons to Eden Hazard, particularly in Fofana’s ability to glide past defenders with balance and trickery. Hazard’s move from Lille to Chelsea in 2012 paved the way for a Premier League legend – and Spurs fans will be hoping their own Belgian prodigy can follow a similar path.
Of course, Arsenal landing Vinícius Júnior would be a seismic statement. But if Fofana continues on his current trajectory, Tottenham might just have their own game-changing superstar in the making – and at a fraction of the price.
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