Solanke injury concern, Ange Postecoglou talks up more Tottenham signings as £30m deal expected to be completed next
Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou has given fans plenty to be excited about, hinting that the club is far from done in the transfer market and that more new faces could arrive at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium before the transfer window slams shut. This revelation coincides with ongoing speculation that a former Tottenham star might be making a sensational return to north London, adding further intrigue to an already eventful summer for Spurs.
Just recently, Tottenham broke their transfer record by securing the services of Bournemouth striker Dominic Solanke. The 26-year-old England international joined Spurs in a blockbuster £65 million deal, making him the most expensive signing in the club’s storied history. This significant acquisition is viewed as a strategic move to bolster Postecoglou’s attacking options, particularly after Solanke’s remarkable performance last season, where he netted 21 goals in all competitions for Bournemouth, demonstrating his prowess as a top-tier striker.
The decision to pursue Solanke was not made lightly. Respected football journalist David Ornstein reported that Postecoglou had identified Solanke as his primary target among strikers within Tottenham’s financial reach. The Spurs hierarchy moved swiftly, entering into intensive negotiations that culminated in the successful signing of Solanke. The striker, eager to take the next step in his career, was reportedly very keen on the move to Tottenham, seeing it as a perfect opportunity to showcase his talent on a larger stage.
After Tottenham’s narrow 3-2 defeat in a friendly against Bayern Munich, Postecoglou shared his thoughts on Solanke’s readiness for the upcoming Premier League season, specifically the crucial match against Leicester City. Despite Solanke suffering a minor toe injury shortly before his transfer, the Tottenham boss expressed confidence that his new star striker would be fit to feature in the game. “I don’t see any reason why he shouldn’t be ready to play against Leicester,” Postecoglou remarked. “He’s completed the majority of his pre-season training, which is crucial. Although he picked up a slight knock during Bournemouth’s last match, we’ll monitor him closely throughout the week. Given that he’s already done most of the hard work in pre-season, I fully expect him to be available for selection.”
Postecoglou didn’t just stop at Solanke’s immediate fitness; he also delved into the player’s journey to becoming Tottenham’s most expensive signing. The Australian manager praised Solanke’s determination and resilience, qualities that have shaped him into the player he is today. “He’s had to work his way up, and that’s something I always see as a positive,” Postecoglou explained. “When a player has faced adversity early in their career and managed to overcome it, it speaks volumes about their character. Solanke had a very promising start to his career, but things didn’t always go his way. However, he’s shown remarkable grit by re-establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s premier strikers. Now, at 26, about to turn 27, he’s entering the prime of his career, and I’m confident he’s determined to make a significant impact in the years ahead.”
With Solanke now firmly in the fold, the focus has shifted to potential additional signings as Tottenham looks to further strengthen their squad. Postecoglou has made it clear that he expects more business to be done before the transfer window closes, fueling speculation about who could be the next player to don the famous white shirt. “There’s still time left in the transfer window, and I fully expect more activity,” Postecoglou stated, signaling that Tottenham’s summer spending spree might not be over just yet. “We’re actively looking to identify players who fit our style of play. While some adjustment will be necessary for any new arrivals, I expect them to have the qualities needed to contribute immediately. My expectation is that any player we bring in will be ready to make an impact from the moment they arrive.”
As Tottenham continues to explore the market, one name that has been frequently mentioned in connection with a potential return is Southampton full-back Kyle Walker-Peters. The 27-year-old, who came through Tottenham’s youth academy before moving to Southampton, is once again being linked with a move back to north London. Reports over the weekend suggest that Spurs are seriously considering activating a £30 million buy-back clause for Walker-Peters, a player who has greatly impressed during his time with the Saints. Last season, Walker-Peters was instrumental in Southampton’s promotion from the Championship, contributing three goals and three assists in 47 appearances across all competitions. His versatility, being able to play both right-back and left-back, would offer Postecoglou valuable depth and quality in defense, especially with the club’s busy schedule in mind.
The speculation surrounding Walker-Peters has only intensified as Tottenham’s current right-back, Emerson Royal, edges closer to a move to AC Milan. The Brazilian defender has been the subject of transfer rumors for months, and it now appears that his switch to the San Siro is imminent. According to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, a deal worth over €15 million has been agreed upon, bringing an end to Emerson’s time at Tottenham. Romano provided further details on social media, stating, “Emerson Royal to AC Milan, here we go! The deal is in place for a total package exceeding €15 million from Spurs. Agreement with Emerson was reached back in May, as he only wanted Milan despite receiving several other proposals. Travel plans are being arranged as Emerson prepares to leave Tottenham and join Milan’s project.”
If Tottenham is unable to finalize a deal for Walker-Peters, they have a contingency plan in place. Summer signing Archie Gray, who impressed as a substitute during the friendly against Bayern Munich, could be utilized as cover for Pedro Porro at right-back in the upcoming season. Gray’s performance in his first appearance at Tottenham’s home ground highlighted his potential, and Postecoglou may rely on the young defender if the club’s pursuit of Walker-Peters does not materialize.
As the transfer window deadline looms, Tottenham fans can expect plenty of action and potentially more new arrivals. Postecoglou’s comments suggest that the club is committed to further strengthening the squad, ensuring that Tottenham is well-equipped for the challenges of the upcoming season. Whether it’s bringing in a former star like Walker-Peters or securing fresh talent, one thing is certain: Tottenham Hotspur is determined to make a statement this summer, both on and off the pitch.
