Tottenham Hotspur are considering a move for a central midfielder during the January transfer window after Rodrigo Bentancur suffered a serious injury, according to GIVEMESPORT journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The Uruguay international picked up a significant hamstring injury in Spurs’ dramatic 3–2 loss to Bournemouth last week. He is expected to undergo surgery and could be sidelined for around three months, dealing a major blow to Thomas Frank at a time when fixtures are coming thick and fast across competitions.
Bentancur’s absence has increased the likelihood of Tottenham returning to the transfer market for midfield cover before the window shuts. The club have already focused on strengthening their defence and are close to completing their first winter signing, with Santos left-back Souza set to join in a deal worth around £15 million, subject to medical checks and paperwork.
Spurs intensify midfield search
Romano revealed on X that Tottenham will now “explore opportunities” in midfield following Bentancur’s setback. The former Juventus midfielder has been one of Frank’s most dependable players this season, starting 17 of 21 Premier League games and contributing two goals and assists. His work rate, ball recovery and ability to play under pressure have been vital despite the team’s inconsistent results.
Bentancur was forced off late against Bournemouth and replaced by teenager Archie Gray, who also featured in the FA Cup defeat to Aston Villa. While Gray has impressed, Spurs are wary of placing too much responsibility on the 19-year-old for the remainder of a physically demanding campaign.
Injury problems continue to mount
Bentancur’s injury adds to Tottenham’s growing list of absentees. Dejan Kulusevski has been sidelined since April, while James Maddison is expected to miss the rest of the season with an ACL injury. Lucas Bergvall, Mohammed Kudus and Destiny Udogie have also been unavailable recently, further limiting Frank’s options.
Richarlison was another casualty, coming off with a hamstring issue against Aston Villa, leaving Spurs short in both midfield and attack. Pape Matar Sarr’s absence at the Africa Cup of Nations has also reduced depth in the middle of the pitch.
Conor Gallagher on Spurs’ radar
With injuries mounting, Tottenham are assessing several midfield targets, and Atletico Madrid’s Conor Gallagher is emerging as a leading candidate. Spurs are believed to have opened discussions over a potential deal and face competition from Aston Villa for the former Chelsea midfielder.
Gallagher is reportedly open to leaving Atletico due to limited minutes under Diego Simeone. Villa have already submitted an offer, while Tottenham view him as a strong fit for Frank’s high-intensity style. Atletico are said to prefer a permanent sale, and Gallagher had also attracted interest from Manchester United late in the summer window.
Midfield depth a growing concern
With Bentancur and Bergvall injured and Sarr away on international duty, Tottenham’s midfield options are stretched thin. In the short term, Frank may rely on a pairing of Archie Gray and João Palhinha, with Yves Bissouma also pushing for a regular role after returning from AFCON.
As a result, the coming weeks could prove crucial. Bentancur’s injury has clearly accelerated Tottenham’s transfer plans, making midfield reinforcement a priority for the remainder of the January window—whether through Gallagher or an alternative target.
