5 Tottenham news & rumours to start your Monday, September 9
By Manuel Meza
The international break is drawing to a close, and it feels like we've stepped into a time machine because transfer rumours are on fire! But no, that's not all we've got for you this time, so don't worry.
Transfer rumours; this time featuring a Tottenham star who may be tempted by a big-money move from the Arab world, plus the latest on the performances of the Spurs players called up by their national teams. All this and more in today's daily roundup of the top Spurs news. Let's dive in.
5 Tottenham news & rumours to start your Monday, September 9
1. Tottenham superstar attracting interest from Saudi Arabia
According to Fichajes.com, Saudi Pro League clubs are considering a move for Tottenham captain Heung-Min Son next summer. The 32-year-old is among five high-profile targets as Saudi clubs aim to enhance their league. Despite recent big names like Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar joining, Saudi Arabia might pursue Son on a free transfer, although Tottenham can extend his contract until 2026.
With Son turning 33, a lucrative offer could be tempting, especially from PIF-owned clubs like Al Hilal or Al Nassr. However, Son’s strong connection to Spurs and his consistent performances may outweigh any financial lure.
2. Two international wins in two for Tottenham duo
Sweden secured their second win in the Nations League with a 3-0 victory over Estonia, showcasing impressive performances from Dejan Kulusevski and Lucas Bergvall. Kulusevski, starting in a 3412 formation behind Viktor Gyokeres and Alexander Isak, contributed significantly, assisting in the build-up to Sweden’s third goal, though he wasn’t officially credited with the assist.
He excelled with 6/8 dribbles completed, six shots, and five chances created. Bergvall, who started on the bench, made a late appearance and had a free-kick blocked. Both players will return to Tottenham ready for the weekend’s match.
3. Tottenham duo in action for England U20s
On Friday night, Spurs' on-loan youngsters Ashley Phillips and Dane Scarlett both started for England U20s in their 1-1 draw against Turkiye. Phillips played the full match, while Scarlett was substituted after 90 minutes, just after Dom Ballard's late equaliser.
Scarlett has struggled for consistent game time at Oxford United, starting only once in the Carabao Cup, partly due to Mark Harris’s strong form. In contrast, Phillips has been more successful at Stoke City, starting recent games and contributing to two clean sheets. Both will play together again on Tuesday against Romania and face off on Saturday when Oxford hosts Stoke.
4. Former Tottenham scout gives insight to his time at the club
In an interview with The Athletic, former Tottenham scout David Pleat shared insights from his time at Spurs. Initially, he found Christian Eriksen "erratic" but was impressed with Jan Vertonghen. Pleat is renowned for discovering Dele Alli at MK Dons, persuading Spurs to pay £5m for him.
He also identified James Maddison early at Coventry City but felt Spurs missed the opportunity, only signing him for £40m later. Pleat tried to sign Jarrod Bowen, Ivan Toney, and Ollie Watkins but faced resistance. He warns against undervaluing EFL talent, highlighting past successes like Tony Galvin and Gary Mabbutt, and praises recent moves for Wilson Odobert and Archie Gray.
5. Three wins in a row for Tottenham loanee
On Saturday, Matthew Craig and Barnsley won 2-1 against Bristol Rovers, marking their third consecutive victory in League One. Due to international absences affecting fixtures, only three out of twelve scheduled games were played. Barnsley seized the opportunity to climb to third in the table, just outside the automatic promotion spots.
Craig, playing as a lone defensive midfielder in a 4-1-4-1 formation, delivered a solid performance with six tackles, two interceptions, and other key contributions. Having impressed with Doncaster Rovers last season, the 21-year-old has started all four League games for Barnsley. Their next match is against Stevenage next Saturday.
Have a great day, and see you tomorrow with more Tottenham news!