Thomas Frank could immediately axe four Tottenham players including club legend in ruthless summer overhaul
With Thomas Frank now officially appointed as the new head coach of Tottenham Hotspur, attention is swiftly shifting to what changes may lie ahead for the squad. As the Dane begins shaping the team in his image, questions loom over which players could be on their way out of North London in the coming weeks and months.
The 51-year-old former Brentford boss was announced as the new man at the helm on Thursday evening. In an official club statement, Tottenham described Frank as “one of the most progressive and innovative head coaches in the game,” adding that, “He has a proven track record in player and squad development, and we look forward to him leading the team as we prepare for the season ahead.”
Joining Frank in the backroom setup are several familiar faces. From Brentford, he brings with him Justin Cochrane as First Team Assistant Coach, Chris Haslam in the dual role of Head of Performance and First Team Assistant Coach, and Joe Newton as First Team Coach Analyst. In addition, Andreas Georgson has arrived from Manchester United to bolster the coaching team further.
With this fresh managerial team now in place, speculation has already begun about whether Frank will look to bring some of his former Brentford players to North London. One name that continues to surface is winger Bryan Mbeumo, who has also been attracting interest from Manchester United. While no formal bids have been made, the links to Mbeumo could be a sign of what’s to come as Frank starts reshaping Spurs’ frontline.
However, with potential arrivals expected, it’s inevitable that some current players may be shown the exit door.
Club Legend Son Heung-min Facing an Uncertain Future
One of the biggest talking points is the future of club icon Son Heung-min. Despite having a year remaining on his contract, the South Korean superstar has been strongly linked with a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League. At 32, and after a relatively underwhelming season in which he registered just seven goals and nine assists in 30 Premier League appearances, questions are being asked about whether Spurs will cash in while they still can.
Speaking to reporters after South Korea’s 4-0 World Cup qualifying win over Kuwait earlier this week, Son remained coy about his plans:
“Rather than saying anything at this moment, I think we should all wait and see what happens. But no matter where I end up, I will always do the best I can. That will never change.”
Son’s status as a fan favourite and long-serving player adds a layer of emotion to the situation, but Frank and the Spurs board will need to be pragmatic as they plan for the future.
Cristian Romero Attracting Spanish Interest
Another potential departure is Argentine centre-back Cristian Romero, who is reportedly on the radar of Atletico Madrid. According to Football Insider, Diego Simeone is eager to add the 27-year-old defender to his squad, with a transfer fee north of £60 million believed to be enough to convince Spurs to sell.
Romero has made 124 appearances for Tottenham since joining from Atalanta, but if the right offer comes in, a move to La Liga could be on the cards as Frank considers restructuring the backline.
Richarlison’s Time Running Out?
Elsewhere, Brazilian forward Richarlison is also facing an uncertain future. Since his £60 million move from Everton in 2022, the 28-year-old has failed to establish himself as a consistent starter, leading to speculation about a potential loan move—possibly even a return to Merseyside. Though such a move hasn’t materialized yet, the clock may be ticking on his time at Tottenham.
With his peak years approaching, Richarlison may need a change of scenery to rediscover the electric form he once displayed at Goodison Park. Whether Frank gives him a second chance or chooses to offload him remains to be seen.
Bissouma’s Struggles Could Spell Exit
Midfielder Yves Bissouma, signed from Brighton for £25 million in 2022, is another player whose future hangs in the balance. The 25-year-old endured a difficult 2024/25 season, struggling with both form and discipline. He was even forced to apologize after a video emerged showing him inhaling what appeared to be nitrous oxide in August 2024.
The Mali international has admitted the season was challenging, often finding himself in and out of the side. A loan move could offer him the opportunity to get his career back on track, though the arrival of Thomas Frank might provide a clean slate and renewed motivation.
Retained List and Free Transfers
As part of their squad reshuffle, Spurs have also confirmed the release of several players. According to the Premier League’s official website, the following individuals have been made available for free transfer:
Free Transfers:
- William Andiyapan
- Fraser Forster
- Jahziah Linton
- Maxwell McKnight
- Sergio Reguilon
- Max Robson
- Alfie Whiteman
- Jaden Williams
Released:
- Timileyin Adekunle
- Elliot Krasniqi
- Dante D’Angelo Orr
- Charlie Fredrick Warren
The departure of seasoned backup goalkeeper Fraser Forster and left-back Sergio Reguilon, among others, indicates a broader clear-out as Tottenham aim to refresh their squad under the new regime.
The Road Ahead
Thomas Frank’s appointment has brought optimism to Tottenham Hotspur, but also a sense of inevitable change. While supporters are hopeful that new signings will lift the club back to competitive heights, the potential exits of fan favourites like Son and Romero could signal the beginning of a new era. The coming weeks will be crucial as Spurs look to reshape their squad to suit Frank’s tactical philosophy, with a mix of calculated exits and smart acquisitions expected.
The message is clear: no one’s place is guaranteed anymore, and every player will need to prove their worth under the Dane’s watchful eye.