Spurs discussing move to sign “world-class” £70m star, he could be Frank’s next Mbeumo
Tottenham Hotspur Gamble on Thomas Frank Appointment After Ange Postecoglou Exit — Joao Pedro Emerges as Key Summer Target
Tottenham Hotspur have made a bold and arguably risky decision by parting ways with Ange Postecoglou this summer, despite the Australian guiding the club to their first piece of silverware in 17 years. While Postecoglou ended Spurs’ long-standing trophy drought with a European triumph, the club’s disappointing domestic form ultimately cost him his job in North London.
Now, the reins have been handed to Thomas Frank, the widely respected Danish manager who joined the Lilywhites on a three-year deal following a successful seven-year spell with Brentford. The Spurs hierarchy made a significant financial commitment to secure Frank’s services, reportedly paying £10 million in compensation to bring him to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
With the new season fast approaching, Frank faces immense pressure to hit the ground running. Tottenham’s 17th-place finish in the Premier League last season left fans frustrated and expectations elevated, and there is little margin for error. If Frank is to avoid the same fate as his predecessor and build a successful tenure in North London, he will require proper backing in the transfer market.
Transfer Market Heating Up: Spurs Eye Several Attacking Stars
Tottenham are gearing up for an active summer window, with Daniel Levy expected to loosen the purse strings as the club prepares for another gruelling campaign — this time with Champions League football added to the mix. A deeper, higher-quality squad is essential if the club wants to be competitive both domestically and in Europe.
Among the names on Spurs’ radar is Xavi Simons, who dazzled during his time with RB Leipzig this past season, netting 11 goals and showcasing his creativity and technical brilliance. The Dutchman is seen as a potential marquee signing, though competition is expected to be fierce.
Spurs are also reportedly monitoring Antoine Semenyo of Bournemouth, but a more concrete name has emerged in recent days: Joao Pedro of Brighton & Hove Albion. According to Spurs Web, internal discussions have already taken place within the club regarding the Brazilian forward, who could be available for around £70 million.
Pedro, who scored 10 goals in the Premier League during the 2024/25 campaign, is said to be on the radar of Newcastle United and Chelsea as well, making this a competitive race for his signature.
Could Pedro Be Frank’s “Next Mbeumo”?
During his time at Brentford, Thomas Frank earned widespread praise for his ability to spot and nurture raw talent. One of his standout success stories was Bryan Mbeumo, who joined from Troyes in 2019 and gradually evolved into one of the Premier League’s most effective forwards. Last season, Mbeumo scored a career-high 20 goals, prompting interest from top clubs — including Spurs — but he is now expected to complete a move to Manchester United.
Losing out on Mbeumo may be a blow for Frank, but Joao Pedro represents a compelling alternative. Statistical comparisons via FBref show Pedro has outperformed Mbeumo in several key metrics across the 2024/25 campaign. Not only did Pedro post a better goals-and-assists-per-90 ratio, but he also offered more in terms of playmaking, boasting higher pass accuracy, more progressive passes into the final third, and superior take-on numbers.
Pedro has also been effective in aerial duels, providing a versatile and dynamic option who can slot into multiple attacking roles — from centre-forward to wide forward — making him an ideal fit for Frank’s flexible tactical setup.
A Statement Signing for a New Era
While £70 million may seem like a steep price for a 23-year-old, Tottenham may view it as a necessary investment to kickstart the Thomas Frank era. Pedro’s all-round capabilities, youth, and Premier League experience make him an attractive proposition — especially with Spurs seeking long-term solutions rather than stop-gap signings.
Labelled “world-class” by journalist Ryan Adsett, Pedro is regarded as a player on the cusp of a major breakthrough. Under Frank’s guidance — and in a team that plans to build around youth and intensity — he could quickly become a fan favourite.
Moreover, his addition would signal a shift in transfer strategy: rather than solely chasing big names, Spurs are targeting players with high upside potential, capable of contributing immediately while also growing into elite assets.
Spurs Must Now Back Their Man
The pressure is now on Daniel Levy and the Tottenham board to deliver the reinforcements Thomas Frank requires. With Postecoglou gone and fan sentiment hanging in the balance, a bold summer window is needed to reassure the supporters and provide the new manager with a platform for success.
If Joao Pedro can replicate the impact Mbeumo had under Frank — or perhaps even surpass it — Spurs could soon find themselves back among the Premier League elite, challenging for top-four honours and making a statement in Europe.
Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Tottenham’s summer gamble on Frank needs to be backed with action in the market, and Joao Pedro could be the first major piece of that ambitious puzzle.