Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly readying a significant bid to contend with Liverpool for the acquisition of RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande. The North London club finds itself in a less than favourable position this season, with Thomas Frank’s squad languishing in 14th place in the Premier League table after 21 fixtures. Pressure is mounting on Frank to reverse their fortunes, as the Tottenham hierarchy remains divided over the prospect of terminating his tenure.
In a bid to strengthen their ranks, Spurs have already moved to secure new additions this January. Conor Gallagher is expected to undergo a medical on Tuesday following an agreement with Atletico Madrid. The Athletic’s David Ornstein revealed earlier today that Gallagher is poised to sign a long-term contract with Tottenham. According to Ornstein, “Tottenham Hotspur have agreed a €40million (£34.7m) deal with Atletico Madrid for midfielder Conor Gallagher, who is anticipated to finalise contract terms in England imminently. Aston Villa had expressed considerable interest, but no agreement materialised amidst their concerns over financial prudence.”
Now, Spurs may be eyeing their second signing of the month, with journalist Alan Nixon indicating that the club is preparing a ‘big offer’ for RB Leipzig’s Diomande. Reports suggest the winger could be available for £40 million, despite speculation that the Bundesliga side might demand as much as £87 million. Liverpool are also reportedly keen on the Ivorian international but appear to be targeting a summer move, potentially giving Tottenham a strategic advantage for a January deal.
The Athletic’s Jack Pitt-Brooke provides insights into Spurs’ transfer strategy, highlighting areas of priority: “Central midfield had been a primary concern, but Bentancur’s likely surgical hamstring injury escalates the urgency. Ideally, Joao Palhinha and Archie Gray would form the preferred partnership, with Lucas Bergvall currently unavailable and Pape Matar Sarr on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Gallagher is expected to bridge this gap, offering Tottenham both the footballing and psychological attributes they presently require. The necessity for an additional striker will largely depend on Dominic Solanke’s return to form and the duration of Richarlison’s absence following a recent setback against Villa.”