Manager bust-up gives Tottenham a January transfer opportunity to solve Thomas Frank problem

Tottenham were open to signing a new left-winger during the summer transfer window — in addition to the arrival of Xavi Simons — but club officials couldn’t finalise a deal for Thomas Frank’s target.

Ademola Lookman’s spell at Atalanta once seemed like a perfect fit. In May 2024, the Nigerian forward produced a stunning hat-trick in the Europa League final to beat unbeaten Bayer Leverkusen, becoming the first player to score three goals in a major European final since 1975. However, things have taken a downturn for the 28-year-old former Charlton, Everton, Fulham, and Leicester City winger.

Tensions rose last week when Lookman clashed with then-manager Ivan Juric after being substituted during Atalanta’s Champions League match against Marseille. Although the team went on to win through a late goal from Lazar Samardzic, the incident added to mounting pressure, and Juric was dismissed after a 3-0 loss to Sassuolo days later.

Lookman had sought an exit from Atalanta in the summer, holding lengthy talks with Inter Milan, but no agreement was reached. Atletico Madrid also monitored his situation. With just 18 months left on his contract, his future in Bergamo looks uncertain and his market value continues to decline.

At 28, Lookman doesn’t fully fit Tottenham’s typical transfer profile, yet his quality makes him one of the most appealing left-wingers currently available. He may also feel he has unfinished business in the Premier League after rejuvenating his career in Italy.

The left flank has proven troublesome for Spurs this season, despite Frank having several options. The club considered a move for Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo over the summer but were deterred by the Cherries’ high asking price — which now looks more reasonable given Semenyo’s strong start to the season.

Mathys Tel, Wilson Odobert, and Brennan Johnson have all shown flashes of potential, but none have truly made the position their own. Xavi Simons has also featured on the wing alongside Richarlison up front.

For Tottenham to progress under Frank, they need a reliable threat from the left — a consistent source of goals and assists reminiscent of Son Heung-min in his prime. While Son remains a club legend and virtually irreplaceable, Lookman could be a realistic and intriguing option as he nears what seems to be the end of his Atalanta chapter.