Tottenham have three options to replace James Maddison after devastating injury
Tottenham Face Transfer Dilemma as James Maddison Suffers Potentially Long-Term Injury
Tottenham Hotspur may be forced to return to the transfer market before the summer window closes, following a potentially serious injury to star midfielder James Maddison. The England international was stretchered off during Spurs’ recent 1-1 friendly draw against Newcastle United after going down without any contact late in the game—an incident that left fans and staff visibly concerned.
Maddison appeared to be in significant pain, clutching his leg as medical staff rushed to assist him. The match, which otherwise passed without major incident, ended with a shadow hanging over the North London club’s preparations for the upcoming Premier League campaign.
Although the full extent of the injury is yet to be officially confirmed, early reports suggest that Maddison could be facing a prolonged period on the sidelines. Brentford manager Thomas Frank, whose side recently faced Tottenham, hinted at the seriousness of the situation, telling reporters: “I don’t think it looks good – it could be a bad one.”
With Maddison potentially ruled out for a significant portion of the season—or even the entirety of it—Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou may now be forced to consider emergency reinforcement in the midfield department. Here are a few realistic and strategic options the club could explore as they assess how to cover the creative void left by Maddison’s absence:
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Harvey Elliott – A Rising Talent Looking for Regular Minutes
One of the more intriguing possibilities is Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott. The 21-year-old has reportedly grown frustrated with limited opportunities at Anfield and is open to a move where he can become a regular starter. His creativity, vision, and ability to operate across multiple midfield and attacking roles make him a player tailor-made for Maddison’s position.
Elliott recently starred for England’s Under-21 side during their triumphant UEFA European Championship campaign, further raising his profile. His standout performances have attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, including West Ham United, Fulham, and Newcastle.
Valued at around £40 million, Elliott represents a realistic target for Spurs, especially if they want to secure a young, Premier League-proven replacement. With Tottenham eager to build a youthful and dynamic attacking core, Elliott could be both a short- and long-term solution.
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Eberechi Eze – A Statement Signing Waiting to Happen
If Tottenham want to make a bolder move, they could enter the race for Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze. Widely regarded as one of the most skillful and creative attacking midfielders in the league, Eze has been consistently impressive for the Eagles and played a major role in their FA Cup triumph last season.
Arsenal are long-time admirers and are believed to be considering a formal offer before the window shuts. But with Maddison sidelined, Spurs may feel compelled to rival their North London neighbours for Eze’s signature.
Although Palace are unlikely to part ways with their prized asset without a significant fee—potentially upwards of £60-70 million—Tottenham could justify the investment by landing a player who some would argue offers even more flair and unpredictability than Maddison at full fitness.
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Mikkel Damsgaard – A Smart, Under-the-Radar Alternative
For a more pragmatic and cost-effective option, Spurs might look no further than Brentford’s Mikkel Damsgaard. While not the most glamorous name on the list, the Danish midfielder has quietly established himself as a key figure under Thomas Frank, offering consistency, vision, and creativity in the final third.
Last season, Damsgaard delivered double-digit assists for the Bees, often acting as the link between midfield and attack. With better players surrounding him at Spurs, his numbers could improve even further, especially in a more expansive system under Postecoglou.
Brentford, however, are already facing difficulties holding on to top talent this summer, and Damsgaard’s departure would be a blow. But from Tottenham’s standpoint, the 25-year-old could represent a shrewd addition—especially if negotiations for more high-profile targets like Eze or Elliott stall.
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Conclusion: A Pivotal Decision Ahead for Spurs
James Maddison’s injury could not have come at a worse time for Tottenham, with the Premier League season set to begin in less than two weeks. His potential long-term absence leaves a significant creative gap in the team, and with the club aiming to push for a top-four finish, standing still in the market is simply not an option.
Whether Spurs opt for an exciting young prospect like Harvey Elliott, a marquee name such as Eberechi Eze, or a smart value addition in Mikkel Damsgaard, one thing is clear: action is needed, and soon. The next few days could be decisive in shaping the club’s ambitions for the 2025/26 campaign.