Tottenham are about to complete their first signing of the winter in the coming days.
Tottenham are on the verge of completing their first signing of the January transfer window after focusing solely on outgoings during the opening week of the market. According to recent reports, the Lilywhites are set to finalise a €15m deal to sign Santos left-back Souza in the coming days. The 19-year-old’s arrival at N17 would bring an end to the use of Djed Spence as a makeshift left-back under Thomas Frank.
Thomas Frank is already under significant pressure this season, with his side conceding goals on a regular basis. It therefore comes as little surprise that Spurs’ first winter signing is expected to be a defender. For some time now, the North Londoners have been crying out for a new left-back, particularly with Destiny Udogie being the only natural option in that role.
With that in mind, Spurs have opted to invest in a young talent by moving for Souza from Santos FC. The teenager is regarded as a long-term investment and a player with immense potential as the club continues to shape a squad for the future under Thomas Frank. The plan is clear for the Lilywhites: to build a team capable of competing in both the short and long term.
Who is Souza?
Souza is widely regarded as one of the most exciting prospects to emerge from South America this season. At just 19, he has already made notable strides while playing for the same club that once nurtured Neymar. He has featured 38 times for his boyhood side, playing a key role in their battle against relegation. The Brazilian made his first-team debut for Santos in early 2024 after progressing through the club’s academy.
While he may lack extensive experience at the highest level, the young left-back has consistently demonstrated his quality this season. According to Sofascore, Souza has registered 1 goal and 4 assists for Santos, underscoring his ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch.
Given his age and stage of development, Souza is a specialist left-back and has not featured regularly in other positions. Naturally left-footed, the teenager likes to push up and down the flank and deliver dangerous crosses from wide areas.
Let’s take a look at Souza’s strengths and weaknesses
Souza is known for his attacking instincts, using his agility and explosive pace to get forward whenever possible. He makes quick decisions, attacks space effectively on the left flank and possesses impressive dribbling ability. Comfortable on the ball, he enjoys delivering crosses from the touchline and is equally capable of cutting inside or making overlapping runs by linking up well with the winger.
That said, there are still aspects of his game that require refinement. The Brazilian tends to push forward at all times, which can leave him out of position during quick transitions. He may also need time to adapt to the physical demands of the Premier League, given his relatively lean frame.
A good fit for Thomas Frank’s Tottenham side?
Souza played an important role in Santos’ fight against relegation this season, offering clear evidence of his mentality despite his young age. He could be an ideal fit at N17, offering a different attacking dimension on the left flank than Destiny Udogie. His willingness to get forward would also help Spurs in the final third, offering much-needed service from the byline.
That said, there are understandable concerns surrounding his imminent arrival. The talented teenager may not yet be fully ready for the demands of European football. Making the jump to the Premier League at such a young age is always a risk, and Souza could require time to settle at his new club. Supporters will need to be patient, as he may not deliver the immediate impact often expected from new signings.
Nevertheless, the potential is clear, and if nurtured properly, Souza could become a mainstay of the Spurs side for years to come. Working under Thomas Frank may also prove beneficial for the 19-year-old, with the Danish tactician well known for developing young talent and helping players reach their full potential.
