Tottenham Hotspur are said to be edging closer to their third signing of the January transfer window, having reportedly reached an agreement to secure a highly regarded young talent from West Ham United. Meanwhile, uncertainty continues to surround Randal Kolo Muani’s future in north London.
It has been a difficult and underwhelming season for Spurs, who remain rooted in the bottom half of the Premier League and well below the level fans expected. Hopes were high following Thomas Frank’s appointment last summer, but the Dane has so far struggled to deliver a meaningful improvement in results or performances. In many respects, Tottenham appear little different from the side Ange Postecoglou left behind.
Despite their domestic struggles, Spurs have managed to find some encouragement in Europe. Qualification for the Champions League knockout rounds has provided a rare positive in an otherwise turbulent campaign. However, early exits from both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup have only deepened the sense of frustration surrounding the club.
With pressure growing, Tottenham’s recruitment team have acted decisively in the winter window. Conor Gallagher and Souza have already joined as Frank looks to rebuild a squad ravaged by injuries and a lack of depth. The club have explored further reinforcements, though potential moves for Liverpool’s Andy Robertson and Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta now appear unlikely. Even so, another attacking addition could still arrive before the deadline, particularly with Kolo Muani’s situation unresolved. While time is running short, reports suggest at least one more deal is close.
According to Football Insider, Spurs have now “agreed a deal” to sign West Ham youngster Elisha Sowunmi, widely viewed as one of the Hammers’ most exciting prospects. Tottenham are believed to have monitored the 18-year-old for over a year and have beaten competition from Celtic and Club Brugge to secure his signature.
The report adds that Celtic were pushing hard to land Sowunmi, battling an unnamed Premier League top-six side for the teenager. That club has since been revealed as Tottenham, who have now edged out the Scottish champions to finalise the move. Spurs see Sowunmi as a long-term project and a key addition to their youth pathway under Frank.
Attention is also turning to possible exits. Another Football Insider report, citing journalist Pete O’Rourke, suggests Tottenham may now be open to reassessing Kolo Muani’s role and could even consider terminating his loan early.
“There are long-term admirers of Mateta,” O’Rourke said. “It would likely depend on outgoings at Tottenham. If Kolo Muani were to cut his loan short and potentially return to Juventus, that could open the door for Spurs to push ahead with their interest in Mateta.
“There are plenty of variables. Kolo Muani scored against Eintracht Frankfurt as Spurs secured their place in the last 16, but Juventus are actively looking for a striker and have already missed out on Mateta. Kolo Muani enjoyed a successful spell there previously, so he fits what they’re looking for.”
O’Rourke also noted that Tottenham’s position may be changing. “Spurs were previously reluctant to let anyone leave, but with Mateta now under consideration, they could be more flexible. Kolo Muani hasn’t been a regular starter or consistent scorer, so a return to Juventus might suit everyone involved.
“That could then allow Tottenham to move for Mateta, but there are so many factors in play that it’s a waiting game.”
With the deadline fast approaching, Spurs face a decisive few days. Another signing appears close, but any late departures could ultimately determine whether Thomas Frank lands the attacking reinforcements he still needs as Tottenham try to salvage a disappointing season.
