adminTottenham’s mood couldn’t be more different than the downbeat atmosphere of last summer. Following a proactive and ambitious transfer window, there’s a real sense of optimism around N17—a far cry from the disappointment that hung over the club 12 months ago.
Back then, Spurs missed out on several prime targets despite qualifying for the Europa League. The appointment of Thomas Frank failed to lift spirits, and his blunt warning that the team “would lose games” hardly helped.
This year, however, the energy has shifted. Roberto De Zerbi brings a confidence and drive that Frank never quite showed, and the Italian has already suggested the club’s recruitment is only “60% complete”—even after securing high-profile names like Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali.
With more arrivals likely, what could Tottenham’s preferred XI look like for the 2026/27 campaign?
Goalkeeper and Defence
In goal, Antonín Kinský appears to have made the position his own. The young Czech keeper has rebuilt his reputation since that memorable night in Madrid, most recently producing a stunning save against Chelsea that served as a timely reminder of his ability.
Ahead of him, Pedro Porro looks certain to start—De Zerbi has even labelled him the “best right-back in the world.” With Cristian Romero’s future uncertain, Jan Paul van Hecke and Marcos Senesi are expected to partner in central defence, which could see Micky van de Ven shift to left-back.
Midfield Balance and Creativity
In midfield, the £185 million duo of Tonali and Fernandes are tipped to anchor the engine room, fitness allowing. Further forward, with James Maddison still building full sharpness and Xavi Simons sidelined, Conor Gallagher could take up the advanced role—a position where the 26-year-old previously impressed during his Chelsea days.
Attack – Potential and a Wildcard
The front line offers plenty of intrigue. Manchester City’s Savinho is widely expected to arrive and occupy the left flank, while returning loanee Mohammed Kudus looks set to feature on the right.
Up front, Dominic Solanke’s injury setbacks and Richarlison’s uncertain future could force a creative rethink—with Cody Gakpo, though not a natural striker, potentially deployed through the middle.
The Next Big Thing? Spurs Chase Their Own Vini Jr
Beyond the immediate starting XI, Tottenham are clearly signalling their ambition to rival the Premier League elite—and that means spotting emerging talent before they explode. One name generating serious interest is Lyon’s Malick Fofana.
Spurs have reportedly opened talks with the 21-year-old’s camp, though an initial €26m (£23m) bid has already been knocked back. Personal terms are not thought to be a problem, with the Belgian winger believed to be keen on a move to north London.
On paper, Fofana started just nine Ligue 1 matches last season, contributing only three goals and assists combined. But the raw stats 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 not hard to see why.
Fofana is electric, rapid, and a constant menace 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—numbers that echo a young Vini Jr, who himself ranks in the top 1% for progressive carries.
Some scouts have even drawn parallels to Eden Hazard, particularly in Fofana’s ability to drift past defenders with poise and trickery. Hazard’s move from Lille to Chelsea in 2012 laid the foundation for a Premier League great—and Spurs fans will be hoping their own Belgian starlet can follow a similar arc.
Of course, Arsenal landing Vinícius Júnior would be a blockbuster move. But if Fofana keeps developing at his current rate, Tottenham may well have their own transformative talent in the making—at a fraction of the cost.
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