Exclusive: Thomas Frank ‘very happy’ with Tottenham star and keen to reward with bumper new contract
Thomas Frank pushing Tottenham to secure Rodrigo Bentancur with new long-term deal
TBR Football understands that Tottenham Hotspur head coach Thomas Frank is urging the club’s hierarchy to tie down Rodrigo Bentancur to a fresh contract, ensuring the midfielder remains a central figure in Spurs’ plans for years to come.
Bentancur’s current deal runs until the summer of 2026, but Frank believes the time is right to extend and improve the Uruguayan’s terms, both as a reward for his performances and as a way to remove any uncertainty over his future. At 28 years old, the former Juventus star is seen as a player entering the prime years of his career, and Frank wants him to spend them in north London.
The Danish coach has been impressed with Bentancur’s influence on and off the pitch since taking charge. In Wednesday’s UEFA Super Cup final against Paris Saint-Germain, the midfielder played the full 90 minutes and extra time, before Spurs ultimately fell to a penalty shootout defeat. Frank reportedly views Bentancur’s composure, tactical intelligence, and ability to dictate the tempo as vital assets in Tottenham’s evolving style of play.
Bentancur’s role under Thomas Frank
Since arriving at Spurs in January 2022, Bentancur has experienced highs and lows — including a serious knee injury that sidelined him for much of last season. However, under Frank, he appears to be regaining his best form and cementing his place as a first-choice midfielder.
Sources close to the club suggest that internal discussions over a new deal have been on the agenda since late last season, with TBR Football first reporting in May that Bentancur was even being considered as a future Tottenham captain. Frank’s recent assessment of the squad has only strengthened his belief that the Uruguay international deserves a “bumper” new deal that reflects his importance.
Graeme Bailey, TBR Football’s chief correspondent, confirmed:
> “Bentancur is someone we’ve spoken about before, and he’s proven there’s a place for him in Frank’s system. The idea that there might not be room for him has been put to bed. Frank is very happy with him and wants him to commit his future to the club. My understanding is the manager hopes to see those talks move forward quickly.”
Bailey also downplayed concerns about Tottenham’s experimental shape against PSG, suggesting that Frank’s long-term vision will see Spurs deploy a dynamic front three, pressing aggressively from the front.
A competitive midfield picture
Frank’s push for Bentancur’s contract renewal comes at a time when Tottenham’s midfield options are both plentiful and competitive. Against PSG, Frank started with a trio of Bentancur, João Palhinha, and Pape Matar Sarr, leaving promising young talents Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray on the bench.
Further competition could arrive soon, as Spurs remain in negotiations with Crystal Palace for Eberechi Eze. The 27-year-old is seen as a potential game-changer in the attacking midfield role, adding flair and creativity to an already deep pool of talent.
Not all current midfielders are guaranteed a future under Frank, however. Yves Bissouma’s position looks uncertain after he was omitted from the Super Cup squad due to disciplinary reasons. The Mali international could be sold if a suitable offer arrives before the transfer window closes.
For now, though, Frank’s priority is to secure the services of Bentancur — a player he views not only as a tactical cornerstone but also as a leader in the dressing room. If Spurs can get the deal over the line, it would send a clear message that the new era under Thomas Frank is being built around proven, dependable quality in key positions.