Bale 2.0? Spurs lead the race for “hugely impressive” star following discussions
It is very much a sacking season in the Premier League, yet Tottenham Hotspur continue to show patience with Thomas Frank despite a challenging run for the former Brentford manager.
Another disappointing 1-1 draw with Sunderland last time out saw Frank’s defensive substitutions once again backfire late on, with Spurs still lacking sharpness and a ruthless edge in the final third. His pragmatic and cautious style may represent a deliberate shift from Ange Postecoglou’s reign, but it has done little to win over supporters in N17 so far. Even so, the club appear prepared to remain patient and are seemingly ready to back Frank in the January transfer window in an effort to address their current struggles.
Spurs continue talks over January move
Tottenham’s ongoing difficulties were underlined again at the weekend. The club sanctioned Brennan Johnson’s sale to Crystal Palace, only for Mohammed Kudus to be forced off injured in the first half against Sunderland. With Johnson arguably the most natural cover for Kudus on the right, it would be no surprise if Spurs turn to the market, with a move for Manchester City’s Savinho still being discussed.
There have also been reports of advanced talks for West Ham’s Lucas Paqueta, but a third Brazilian is firmly on Spurs’ radar. According to TEAMtalk, Tottenham have not abandoned their pursuit of 19-year-old Santos defender Souza, despite having an initial bid rejected. Talks are said to be ongoing over a potential deal.
While interest is growing from clubs such as Newcastle United and Chelsea’s BlueCo ownership group, Spurs are reportedly still the most advanced in negotiations. Their opening £8.7m offer was turned down, with Santos now believed to be holding out for a fee closer to £17.3m.
Why Souza evokes Bale comparisons
Tottenham’s recent big-money signings have largely failed to deliver, with players such as Tanguy Ndombele, Richarlison and Dominic Solanke offering limited returns, the latter also hampered by persistent injuries. By contrast, Spurs have often enjoyed greater success by targeting younger, high-potential players, as seen with Pape Matar Sarr and Dejan Kulusevski.
That approach aligns closely with the club’s long-standing identity, highlighted in the past by the rise of talents such as Dele Alli and Gareth Bale. Souza, an attacking teenage left-back, has already drawn comparisons to Bale, who joined Spurs from Southampton as a 17-year-old in 2007.
Signed for just £5m, Bale initially struggled before transforming from an under-fire full-back into one of the most devastating wingers in world football. Across two spells at the club, he registered 124 goals and assists in 237 appearances, becoming a defining figure of the modern Spurs era.
While suggesting Souza could follow the same path may be premature, the youngster has already been described as “hugely impressive” by scout Ben Mattinson for his early performances at Santos. In the 2025 league campaign, Souza has featured regularly, contributing goals, assists and consistent attacking output from left-back.
With 38 senior appearances and five goal involvements to date, his numbers point to clear attacking promise. South American journalist Nathan Joyes has also suggested Souza’s output would improve significantly in a stronger side, describing him as tall, direct and athletic — traits that mirror those of a young Bale.
Given that profile, it is easy to understand why Tottenham remain keen to secure his signature, with the potential for another shrewd piece of business if they can strike a deal this January.
