Tottenham Hotspur continue to look for a new holding midfielder for the second half of the campaign
Tottenham’s shortcomings in the summer are continuing to haunt Thomas Frank as the injury crisis at N17 deepens. The Lilywhites focused heavily on strengthening their attack, bringing in Mohammed Kudus, Xavi Simons, and Randal Kolo Muani ahead of the new campaign. While those signings were impressive, the club fell short in one key area by failing to secure a new midfielder to provide much-needed cover in the centre of the pitch.
Spurs turned to Joao Palhinha on an initial loan from Bayern Munich to reinforce the midfield. In truth, the Portuguese international has exceeded expectations and delivered consistently strong performances in his short spell at the club. He has anchored the midfield superbly, shielding the defence and adding valuable experience to the dressing room.
However, it is important to recognise that Palhinha cannot play every match as the season wears on. At 30, he will need rest, and the Lilywhites cannot risk overworking him and causing burnout at a crucial stage of the campaign. The real concern is that Tottenham lack another natural #6 capable of performing the same role in his absence.
Sporting CP not letting Morten Hjulmand leave in winter amid Tottenham links
Recent reports suggest Tottenham are pushing to sign Morten Hjulmand from Sporting CP in January as they look to add more depth in midfield. The Lilywhites view the Danish midfielder as the ideal long-term successor to Palhinha and are prepared to hand him an important role under Thomas Frank during the second half of the season.
But new updates reveal Spurs would find it difficult to land the Danish midfielder in the upcoming transfer window. As per Report (via Sport Witness), Sporting CP are not willing to sanction Hjulmand’s move in January as they see him a valuable asset to have for the second half of the campaign. They believe he is a vital part of the team and view him as ‘non-negotiable’ in the winter.
They also claim that the Portuguese giants are willing to add more players to their squad in the winter, instead of letting their key players leave the club midway through the season. But Sporting might be open to sell the 26-year-old in the summer instead, offering Spurs some hope of securing his services for next season.
Waiting until the summer may benefit Tottenham, especially considering the €80 million release clause that would apply to a potential January move. With patience, Spurs might be able to negotiate a more reasonable fee, though they will need to act quickly before other clubs enter the race once the summer window approaches.
Thomas Frank is determined to build on Tottenham’s Europa League success and establish a lasting legacy at N17. To achieve that, he needs a deep, balanced squad filled with potential and quality. Supporters will hope the club ultimately succeed in bringing Hjulmand to North London, as he has all the attributes to thrive in the Premier League and become an influential figure for the Lilywhites.