Spurs transfer news: Saudi star interest and Mateta development | Football | Sport
Yet it seems Thomas Frank is now seeking attacking reinforcements in the final stages of the window – with several prolific forwards being discussed. With only days remaining in the current window, Express Sport looks at some of the latest transfer developments, speculation and chatter surrounding Tottenham;
Fierce rivalry for Saudi sensation
Representatives are believed to have approached multiple Premier League sides regarding a possible return to England’s top division for Moussa Diaby. The Al-Ittihad winger has flourished in the Saudi Pro League this campaign, notching two goals and five assists across 16 outings so far.
Nevertheless, the 26-year-old – who spent a season at Aston Villa before his switch to the Gulf State back in 2024 – has recently been touted for a comeback to English football. Reports suggest that Tottenham, Villa, Crystal Palace, West Ham and Sunderland were all approached by his agents.
Meanwhile, Inter Milan has also emerged as a possible destination for Diaby this month, with earlier reports suggesting a loan deal with an obligatory buy clause had been considered. However, any potential move for Diaby could prove complicated.
According to TEAMtalk, such a transfer might be unfeasible due to tax consequences related to a mid-season return to the UK. Footballers can face substantial tax penalties when returning from Saudi Arabia within two years of their initial arrival.
Having progressed through the Paris Saint-Germain academy system, and enjoying a successful period at Bayer Leverkusen, potential suitors have good reason to be enthusiastic about bringing Diaby to their club this month.
Jean-Philippe Mateta latest
Tottenham have surfaced as a possible destination for Jean-Philippe Mateta this month, as the striker seeks a departure from Selhurst Park. The 28-year-old striker has been connected with numerous clubs during the current transfer window, including Manchester United, Chelsea, Nottingham Forest, Everton, West Ham, Newcastle United and Juventus.
With Crystal Palace reaching an agreement in principle with Wolves for Jorgen Strand Larsen this week, it could in turn pave the way for Mateta’s departure. The France international has netted eight times in 23 appearances this campaign, earning praise particularly for his physicality and prowess in the air.
With Spurs currently lacking a reliable goal-scorer up front, Mateta could prove to be an ideal solution as they aim to reverse their fortunes in the Premier League and progress further in their Champions League campaign. However, a transfer may not come cheaply, given that Crystal Palace are expected to demand somewhere between £35m and £40m to sell the striker, whose contract runs until next summer.
