“Spurs open negotiations to land Premier League striker dubbed Frank’s new Toney.”
Tottenham Hotspur currently find themselves in a vulnerable position, with the threat of last season’s Premier League struggles once again looming large.
Thomas Frank was appointed to guide the Lilywhites back toward stability in England’s top flight after Ange Postecoglou oversaw a disappointing 17th-place finish last season. However, the Dane has endured a difficult spell in recent weeks, highlighted by a run of five league matches without a victory, including a draw against relegation-battling Burnley in their latest outing.
As a result of their poor run of form, Spurs sit 14th in the table, just eight points above the relegation zone, raising concerns that the issues of last season could resurface. With pressure mounting, Frank may require support from the club’s hierarchy, as several areas of the squad require strengthening before the transfer window closes.
Spurs make approach for Premier League forward
The need for a new striker has become increasingly clear, particularly with Richarlison — the club’s leading scorer — sidelined for several more weeks due to injury. Another attacking option, Randal Kolo Muani, has yet to score in the Premier League, while Juventus are reportedly interested in bringing the Frenchman back this month.
This leaves Dominic Solanke as the only senior centre-forward currently available to Frank. However, Solanke has also dealt with injury setbacks, having missed more than three months before returning just recently.
Given these circumstances, it is unsurprising that Tottenham have begun exploring options to strengthen their attack. Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee is among the players being monitored. According to TEAMtalk, Spurs have made an unexpected approach to Michael Carrick’s side regarding a potential move for the Dutch international this month.
The report adds that Crystal Palace have also opened discussions over a possible deal for the 24-year-old. Despite this interest, Manchester United are not believed to be willing to let the forward leave during the current window, even though he has started only four league matches this season while earning a reported £100,000 per week.
Why Zirkzee could mirror Frank’s success with Toney
Throughout his managerial career, Frank has worked with several attacking players, none more influential than Ivan Toney during their time together at Brentford. The pair spent four seasons at the club, with Toney delivering consistently in front of goal.
The striker scored 72 goals in 141 appearances for the Bees — the highest tally recorded under Frank’s tenure — underlining his importance to the manager’s system. With Spurs struggling this season, Frank may be keen to find a forward capable of delivering a similar impact in the final third.
A reunion with Toney appears unlikely due to his high salary following a move to Saudi Arabia, which opens the possibility of Zirkzee emerging as a comparable alternative.
Although the Dutchman has managed only three goal contributions this season, his underlying numbers highlight his effectiveness. He averages 1.2 shots on target per 90 minutes with a 40% accuracy rate, suggesting he has often been denied by goalkeepers rather than lacking opportunities.
Zirkzee has also completed 50% of his dribbles and created 1.5 chances per 90 minutes, reflecting his ability to contribute outside the penalty area and link play when dropping deeper.
Joshua Zirkzee – Premier League statistics (2025/26, per 90):
Games played: 14
Goals and assists: 3
Pass accuracy: 76%
Shots on target: 1.2
Shot accuracy: 40%
Dribbles completed: 50%
Chances created: 1.5
Touches in the penalty area: 6.2
Much like Toney during his time at Brentford, Zirkzee combines link-up play with a presence inside the box. Both of his league goals this season have been scored from inside the area, while his 6.2 touches in the opposition box per 90 highlight his ability to operate as a penalty-area threat.
His average of 2.9 aerial duels won per match and 76% pass completion further demonstrate his hold-up play and overall contribution in advanced areas.
Despite these qualities, Manchester United’s reluctance to allow the player to depart this month could complicate any potential move before the deadline. Nonetheless, Tottenham’s interest reflects their intention to address their attacking concerns as they seek to improve their league position.
