Transfer Silly Season; Who exactly are Tottenham linked to?

At this point, I’m sure I’m not the only Tottenham fan struggling to keep up with the ever-expanding rumours, so here’s a quick summary of the notable links over recent weeks.

Before continuing, a disclaimer that only targets that have received enough traction and social media speculation have been discussed. Of course, they need an at least somewhat reliable source behind them.

So let’s start from the back.

Club captain Hugo Lloris is our undisputed number one, and with Fraser Forster recently joining as deputy, naturally, there is no discussion of another keeper arriving in North London.

Defence is where things get interesting, as we have been linked to a plethora of targets across the backline.

The most notable and only concrete name at right wing-back is Middlesborough’s, Djed Spence. Last week, it seemed as though the deal was nearing completion. However, things seemed to have cooled off with Daniel Levy taking the reigns as opposed to Paratici.

Despite talks somewhat stalling, fans of Spence can take refuge in Middlesbrough’s boss Chris Wilder claiming he “expects the deal to happen,” so even though it’s a slow burner, we can be optimistic about seeing Spence at N17 next season.

Moving across the defence, Spurs fans will be acutely aware of our now tiresome hunt for a left centre back, with a glut of names rumoured to fill the position.

Having cycled through Bastoni, Torres, Ndicka, and Bremer, the two frontrunners seem to be a loan move for Barcelona’s Clement Lenglet or a record-breaking bid for RB Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol.

These targets couldn’t be more different, as Lenglet would surely be a stop-gap option for another season, whilst at just 20, Gvardiol could occupy the position for the next ten years.

With a supposed £80 million price tag, Gvardiol would undoubtedly be a statement signing. Still, traditionally, Conte has favoured more experienced options, and with just two full seasons to his name, the Croatian is a massive risk considering the fee he would command.

Nevertheless, Tottenham has reportedly made contact with RB Leipzig over the availability of Gvardiol, so Conte must be open to the possibility of his arrival, which has led to excitement among the fans base.

In midfielder, after signing Yves Bissouma, at least for now, Conte appears happy with his current options.

A possible homecoming for Christian Eriksen was on the cards until last week, however, now looks all but over, and although there have been whispers of other creative midfielders, Conte’s focus appears to be elsewhere.

Attacker-wise, there has been no shortage of links in recent weeks, with Tottenham gunning to improve an already world-class frontline.

The most concrete rumours are regarding Leeds’ Raphinha or a potential double swoop for Everton’s Richarlison and Anthony Gordon.

Tottenham is reportedly intending to bid for Raphinha and looks to be going head-to-head with rivals Arsenal for the Brazilian’s signature. Although news today makes it seem like Raphina to Chelsea is a done deal.

As for Richarlison and Gordon, Sky Sports have reported Tottenham is in talks with Everton for both forwards.

In terms of competition, Spurs look relatively unopposed for Gordon, although Chelsea is said to be potentially targeting Richarlison as a replacement to Romelu Lukaku.

A package deal for the duo has been touted on Sky Sports, and with Everton holding a known interest in Harry Winks, this could end up becoming a cash-plus player deal which would bring an end to his Spurs tenure.

At least for now, these are the most heavily reported deals for Tottenham and Antonio Conte, however the way this window is going, come next week, there will likely be a fresh crop of targets for us supporters to fantasise over.