Frank’s new Mbeumo: Spurs will see £25m bid accepted for 33-goal “beast”
Tottenham Hotspur Plot Ambitious Moves Under New Boss Thomas Frank as Winger Search Intensifies
Tottenham Hotspur are setting their sights firmly on silverware in the upcoming 2025/26 season, ushering in a new era under manager Thomas Frank. The Danish tactician has stepped into the role following Ange Postecoglou’s departure, with the Australian manager exiting the club as a revered figure after leading Spurs to a historic Europa League triumph — their first major trophy in 17 years.
Postecoglou leaves behind a revitalised squad that demonstrated character, unity, and an unwavering spirit during his tenure. His name is now etched into club folklore for delivering long-awaited glory to the white half of North London. But with Champions League qualification now secured for the new campaign, the focus quickly shifts to Thomas Frank and the rebuild required to make Spurs a consistent force both domestically and in Europe.
Spurs Accelerate Transfer Plans Ahead of 2025/26
With the Frank era beginning to take shape, attention has turned swiftly to the summer transfer market. Strengthening the attack is reportedly a top priority, particularly on the flanks, where the need for pace, dynamism and end-product is evident.
However, Tottenham’s search for new wingers has faced early complications. One of their key targets, Bryan Mbeumo of Brentford, has hinted he would prefer a move to Manchester United should he leave West London — despite the fact that United missed out on Champions League qualification. This revelation has come as a setback for Spurs, who, along with Newcastle United, were hoping to lure the Cameroonian international with the promise of top-tier European football.
Concerns are now growing regarding another high-profile target — Mohammed Kudus. The West Ham United winger is on Tottenham’s radar, and the club has already tabled a £55 million bid, which was rejected. Chelsea have since entered the race, ramping up the competition for the talented Ghanaian.
Thomas Frank, known for crafting fluid attacking units during his time at Brentford, is determined to add athletic and versatile wide players to his ranks. With Dominic Solanke expected to shoulder much of the central attacking duties, Frank is reportedly keen to ease the burden with a goalscoring winger who can deliver consistently from out wide.
Enter Daizen Maeda – Spurs Eye Cut-Price Solution
According to Football Insider, Tottenham may have found a more affordable yet exciting alternative in Celtic’s Daizen Maeda. The Scottish champions have made it clear that they value the Japan international at around £25 million — a fee that may prove to be a bargain if he can adapt quickly to the Premier League.
Interest in Maeda is rising, with Brentford, West Ham and Turkish giants Fenerbahce also monitoring the 27-year-old. Spurs, however, may have the edge, not only because of their Champions League status but also due to Thomas Frank’s clear interest in a player of Maeda’s profile. Given the significant financial gap between the Premier League and the Scottish Premiership, Tottenham might be able to negotiate favourable terms despite Celtic’s firm valuation.
Maeda’s Background and Tottenham Potential
While primarily deployed as a left winger, Maeda offers versatility across the front line — something Tottenham may need given the uncertainty around Heung-min Son’s future and the recent departure of Timo Werner following his loan spell. The Japanese forward was initially signed by Postecoglou during his Celtic days, joining from Yokohama F. Marinos, where the Australian also previously managed.
Maeda has had spells of inconsistency but has also shown flashes of brilliance. During the 2024/25 campaign, he produced staggering numbers: 33 goals and 12 assists across 51 appearances in all competitions. Those stats reflect his explosive attacking instincts, and Frank may view him as an ideal candidate to develop into his own version of Mbeumo.
Maeda vs Mbeumo: By the Numbers
When comparing Maeda to Mbeumo statistically, it’s clear the Brentford man has the edge in terms of overall output and completeness. Mbeumo managed 20 goals and 7 assists in 38 league starts, while Maeda notched 16 goals and 10 assists in 34 starts. Mbeumo also outshone Maeda in key areas like key passes, dribbles, duels won and big chances created.
Category Daizen Maeda Bryan Mbeumo
Matches (starts) 34 (30) 38 (38)
Goals 16 20
Assists 10 7
Shots (on target) 1.7 (0.8) 2.2 (1.1)
Big chances missed 17 9
Pass completion 82% 74%
Big chances created 10 17
Key passes 1.3 1.8
Dribbles per match 0.7 1.4
Ball recoveries 2.1 4.1
Tackles + interceptions 1.7 1.7
Duels won 3.1 4.7
Data Source: SofaScore
Despite the statistical gulf, Maeda’s raw potential remains enticing. His pace, energy, and pressing ability are traits that Thomas Frank would surely value highly. Former Yokohama coach John Hutchinson once called him a “physical beast”, and current Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers went even further, claiming there’s “no one better in world football” at setting the tempo with off-the-ball runs and relentless pressing.
A Premier League Move Could Unlock Maeda’s Next Level
Having already scored against Bayern Munich in the Champions League, Maeda has demonstrated his ability to deliver on football’s biggest stage. A switch to the Premier League — and particularly to a club like Spurs under an ambitious coach like Frank — could be the perfect platform for him to take the next step in his career.
With Tottenham seeking to build momentum under Frank, adding a player with Maeda’s physical tools and work ethic might prove to be a smart, low-risk investment. His £25 million price tag could look like a steal if he successfully adapts to the English top flight and becomes a key contributor in Frank’s high-energy, press-heavy tactical setup.
Given Brentford’s own interest in Maeda, it’s not far-fetched to believe they’re already scouting replacements for Mbeumo — strengthening the theory that Maeda could fill a similar role at Spurs. Pundit Rio Ferdinand once labelled the Japanese attacker as an “absolute nuisance” for defenders — a compliment in disguise that hints at the chaos Maeda can cause when in full flow.
For Tottenham, the challenge will be fending off rival suitors and convincing Maeda that North London is where his Premier League journey should begin. Should they succeed, it could be the kind of shrewd, under-the-radar move that fuels another strong campaign — and possibly, more silverware in the Thomas Frank era.