Player looking to quit Tottenham in January despite signing a lucrative long-term deal just months ago.
A new report claims Tottenham manager Thomas Frank is now dealing with unsettled players as he prepares for a crucial North London derby this weekend.
Under the guidance of co-sporting directors Fabio Paratici and Johan Lange, Spurs are bracing for a busy January transfer window, with several fringe players expected to move on.
The most notable name heading toward the exit appears to be Yves Bissouma. The 28-year-old Mali midfielder’s contract runs until June 2026, raising the possibility of a free transfer next year amid renewed interest from Galatasaray, who were unable to secure his signature in the summer. Frank previously criticised Bissouma for poor punctuality and discipline, noting earlier in the 2025/26 season that “he has been late several times and the latest time was one too many.”
Bissouma has been sidelined with an ankle injury and is yet to feature this campaign. However, The Mail reports his contract contains a one-year extension option, meaning Tottenham are not guaranteed to lose him for free. The option would likely be activated only if he isn’t sold in January.
Richarlison is another player facing an uncertain future. His deal runs until 2027, but he has struggled for consistency since his £60 million move from Everton in 2022. The forward is believed to be attracting interest from his former club, and Frank is said to view him as expendable, leaving the door open for a possible January exit despite Dominic Solanke’s injury problems.
While departures for Bissouma or Richarlison wouldn’t be surprising, a more unexpected name has now been linked with a winter move.
Mathys Tel unsettled and considering January exit
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Mathys Tel is unhappy in London and interested in leaving Tottenham in January, despite only joining permanently from Bayern Munich in the summer for £30 million. Roma have reportedly identified the 20-year-old as a key target.
Tel has delivered promising performances, including a well-taken equaliser against Manchester United and the opener in Spurs’ win over Leeds before the October international break. However, his exclusion from Tottenham’s 22-man Champions League squad—due to homegrown quota restrictions—has caused frustration.
Roma manager Gian Piero Gasperini is said to view Tel as a player with major potential who fits the profile they want to reinforce their attack. La Gazzetta reports Spurs might consider a loan, though his future remains uncertain.
With Randal Kolo Muani and Dominic Solanke both struggling with injuries, Tel’s situation will be closely watched as the January window approaches.
