Jose sold him: Spurs set to make bid to re-sign “fantastic” star, he’s just like Timber -opinion
Tottenham Hotspur Face Crucial Summer as Thomas Frank Begins New Era
This summer promises to be one of the most pivotal periods in recent memory for Tottenham Hotspur. After parting ways with Ange Postecoglou earlier this month, the North London club wasted little time in naming his successor—Thomas Frank.
The appointment of the Danish tactician signals a new chapter for Spurs. Frank arrives after a highly successful tenure at Brentford, where he guided the club from Championship obscurity to Premier League stability and recognition. However, taking the reins at Tottenham represents a significant step up. Managing a club of Spurs’ stature, with lofty ambitions both domestically and in Europe, presents a different set of pressures and expectations.
To give Frank the best possible chance of delivering success in his first season, Spurs chairman Daniel Levy and the club’s recruitment team must make the most of the current transfer window. Strengthening the squad intelligently is essential—not just by adding creative and attacking firepower, but also by reinforcing a backline that has too often been a source of concern.
Defensive Reinforcements Take Centre Stage
Despite ending the 2024/25 Premier League campaign as the eighth-highest scoring team, Tottenham’s defensive frailties were glaring. The team conceded 65 goals over the course of the season—more than they scored—leaving them with the fourth-worst defensive record in the division. This imbalance made it impossible for Spurs to seriously contend for Champions League qualification or mount a consistent challenge in the top half of the table.
It’s no surprise, then, that several defensive targets have already been linked with the club. Among the names touted are Everton’s rising star Jarrad Branthwaite and Monaco full-back Vanderson.
Branthwaite, in particular, has emerged as one of the standout young defenders in the Premier League. Standing at 6ft 5in, the towering centre-back has impressed with his composure and aerial dominance. However, with a reported price tag of £80 million, any potential move for the England international appears highly unlikely—especially given the financial prudence Spurs have shown in recent years.
Vanderson, a dynamic and technically gifted right-back, has also been linked with a move to North London before, but no concrete interest has ever materialized. While he’s undoubtedly talented, he doesn’t quite match the profile Spurs may be prioritizing—someone in the mould of Arsenal’s Jurrien Timber, who blends defensive discipline with versatility and progressive play.
Walker-Peters Return on the Cards?
One name who fits that profile more snugly is Kyle Walker-Peters. According to a recent report from Caught Offside, Tottenham are now seriously considering re-signing the Southampton full-back—a player they originally let go under Jose Mourinho’s management.
The report indicates that several Premier League clubs are tracking Walker-Peters, whose contract with Southampton is set to expire at the end of the month. However, Spurs are understood to be one of the frontrunners, with incoming boss Thomas Frank reportedly open to the move.
With the 27-year-old reportedly earning just £20,000 a week at St Mary’s, acquiring him on a free transfer could represent one of the most astute pieces of business Tottenham pull off this summer. Walker-Peters has been compared to Arsenal’s Jurrien Timber in terms of style and impact, further enhancing the appeal of this potential reunion.
Timber and Walker-Peters: Similarities in Style and Substance
The comparison between Walker-Peters and Timber isn’t just lazy punditry—it’s backed by data. According to stats aggregator FBref, Timber was identified as one of the most statistically similar full-backs to Walker-Peters in the Premier League last season.
Several key metrics reveal their likeness, including non-penalty expected goals plus assists, key passes per 90, blocks, and defensive contributions such as errors leading to shots. Both players show strong on-the-ball capabilities combined with defensive reliability, making them highly adaptable options in modern systems that demand full-backs contribute at both ends of the pitch.
Perhaps most impressively, Walker-Peters was an ever-present for Southampton last season, starting all 35 of his league appearances. His consistency and fitness make him an attractive option, especially given Spurs’ past issues with injuries in defensive areas.
Versatility a Major Plus
Another reason why the Walker-Peters-to-Spurs link makes sense is his versatility. While naturally a right-back, the England international has shown an ability to cover at left-back and even further up the flank. Timber, likewise, has played across the backline and occasionally in midfield under Mikel Arteta at Arsenal. For a manager like Frank, who may look to implement a flexible and fluid tactical system, having players who can operate in multiple roles is invaluable.
Smart Business That Could Pay Off
While Kyle Walker-Peters may not be the marquee signing to set pulses racing among Spurs fans, his potential return to North London could prove to be a quietly brilliant move. He brings experience, versatility, and statistical reliability—qualities that are often undervalued in the frenzy of summer transfer windows.
If Spurs do indeed land him on a free transfer, it could be one of the bargains of the summer—especially if he thrives under Thomas Frank the way Timber has flourished for Arsenal. In a summer full of important decisions, this is one that could go down as a masterstroke.