£68m “superstar” & new Mbeumo sign, Maddison axed: Dream XI Frank could build at Spurs
Tottenham Hotspur are progressing steadily in their pursuit of Brentford boss Thomas Frank, with negotiations moving in a positive direction. The 51-year-old has reportedly informed his current club of his desire to leave, a development that has given Spurs a significant boost in confidence that a deal can soon be finalised.
Daniel Levy, known for his strategic but decisive approach to managerial appointments, is now moving quickly to secure Frank’s signature. With Ange Postecoglou’s departure already marking the beginning of a new chapter, major changes are expected throughout the first team. A tactical shift and potential squad reshuffle are already on the horizon.
So, how exactly could Thomas Frank stamp his authority on this Tottenham side? Let’s take a detailed look at the potential starting XI and how it might shape up under the Danish tactician’s guidance.
Goalkeeper: Guglielmo Vicario
Guglielmo Vicario endured a mixed second season in north London, often finding himself under pressure behind an inconsistent backline. Despite the ups and downs, the Italian shot-stopper showed signs of resilience—most notably with a vital clean sheet and late save in a tight contest against Athletic Bilbao. With Antonín Kinský waiting in the wings, Vicario will need to raise his game further. However, for now, he remains the likely No. 1 under Frank, whose systems often prioritise defensive structure and discipline.
Right-Back: Pedro Porro
Pedro Porro’s dream move to Real Madrid may have evaporated following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s shock transfer to Los Blancos, but the Spanish full-back still has plenty to offer. Despite an inconsistent campaign, Porro remains one of Tottenham’s most exciting and aggressive outlet players down the right flank.
While Djed Spence is pushing hard for more minutes, Frank’s emphasis on defensive balance could help Porro flourish in a more structured role. The Dane has a track record of improving defenders, and Porro could be one of the first to benefit.
Centre-Back: Marc Guehi
Tottenham are believed to be leading the race to sign Marc Guehi, though competition from Liverpool and Newcastle United remains fierce. With Cristian Romero frequently sidelined by injury and now linked with a move to Atletico Madrid, Spurs could turn the page by bringing in the ever-reliable Guehi.
Valued at up to £70 million, Guehi’s blend of composure, defensive intelligence, and technical ability would make him a cornerstone in Frank’s back four. Importantly, his availability sets him apart—something Tottenham desperately need after seasons of defensive instability.
Centre-Back: Micky van de Ven
While Romero’s future remains uncertain, one defender who will definitely be central to Spurs’ plans is Micky van de Ven. The Dutchman has been a revelation since arriving, offering pace, physicality, and composure on the ball. With a full pre-season under Frank, van de Ven could become a leader at the back and a pillar of the new Tottenham era.
Left-Back: Destiny Udogie
Destiny Udogie’s 2025 campaign was unfortunately marred by injury, restricting him to just four Premier League starts. Yet, despite limited appearances, the Italian full-back still commands attention across Europe. Manchester City reportedly explored a move before settling on Rayan Ait-Nouri, highlighting Udogie’s reputation.
Frank’s influence could be exactly what Udogie needs. Just as he moulded Rico Henry into a refined and reliable left-back at Brentford, he could help unlock Udogie’s vast potential with regular game time and targeted development.
Central Midfield: Lucas Bergvall
Lucas Bergvall has been one of the brightest revelations in recent times. At just 19, the Swedish midfielder played 45 matches across all competitions last season and showed a maturity well beyond his years. Still raw in certain aspects, Bergvall is an exciting prospect who could thrive under Frank’s patient, structured coaching style.
Tottenham see Bergvall as a key part of the club’s long-term core. However, they are also preparing to add more steel to midfield—enter Morten Hjulmand.
Central Midfield: Morten Hjulmand
Spurs are reportedly ready to challenge Manchester United for Sporting Lisbon midfielder Morten Hjulmand. With a potential fee of around £50 million, the Danish international could be Frank’s midfield general—a tough-tackling, positionally aware player who operates naturally as a defensive midfielder.
With Rodrigo Bentancur and Yves Bissouma underwhelming last season and nearing the final years of their contracts, Hjulmand could be brought in to anchor the midfield and give Frank’s team the control it often lacked under Postecoglou.
Attacking Midfield: Dejan Kulusevski
Though currently sidelined after undergoing surgery for a patella injury, Dejan Kulusevski remains a vital asset in Tottenham’s creative setup. Known for his tireless work ethic, ball retention, and versatility, the Swede may even edge out James Maddison in Frank’s preferred system.
Should Maddison struggle with consistency or fitness, Kulusevski could thrive as the central playmaker, offering a balance of flair and functionality that Frank often values in his advanced midfielders.
Right Wing: Leroy Sané
With Leroy Sané’s future at Bayern Munich in doubt, Spurs are reportedly keeping a close watch. The German winger, despite losing some of his electric pace, remains lethal in front of goal—netting 11 goals in just 17 Bundesliga starts last season.
At 29, Sané could still be a game-changing acquisition. His experience, attacking intelligence, and technical class would complement Spurs’ wide play and give them a direct threat from the right wing.
Left Wing: Eberechi Eze
Tottenham’s most headline-grabbing move this summer could very well be the pursuit of Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze. With a £68 million release clause in his contract, Eze represents a high-cost, high-reward gamble.
Ben Mattinson dubbed him the “FA Cup superstar,” and rightly so—his flair, vision, and athleticism have lit up Selhurst Park. Spurs view him as the perfect successor to Heung-min Son, who is being eyed by Saudi Pro League clubs and could command a sizeable fee should he depart.
Eze’s 14 goals and 11 assists last season speak for themselves. His arrival would signal a changing of the guard and inject real dynamism into the left side of Tottenham’s attack.
Centre Forward: Dominic Solanke
Tottenham are also exploring the possibility of signing Fulham striker Rodrigo Muniz, but current starter Dominic Solanke remains a central figure in their plans. The former Bournemouth man tallied an impressive 24 goal contributions despite battling fitness issues and will be hoping to build on that tally next season.
Now 27, Solanke is entering his prime and could thrive under Frank’s system, which often gets the best out of strikers through structured build-up and consistent service from wide areas.
Predicted Dream Starting XI under Thomas Frank
Formation: 4-2-3-1
GK: Guglielmo Vicario
RB: Pedro Porro
CB: Marc Guehi
CB: Micky van de Ven
LB: Destiny Udogie
CM: Morten Hjulmand
CM: Lucas Bergvall
RW: Leroy Sané
AM: Dejan Kulusevski
LW: Eberechi Eze
CF: Dominic Solanke
With a mix of youthful exuberance, tactical intelligence, and high-profile additions, Thomas Frank’s Tottenham could be an entirely different proposition by the time the new season kicks off. A rebuild is clearly underway—and if these moves come to fruition, Spurs fans might have a lot to look forward to.
Let the Frank era begin.