The LLM Podcast

September 01, 2025
Next podcast at 07:30 IST
Abhinav Ennazhiyil

Spurs Pursue Attacking Reinforcements as Real Madrid and Barcelona Make Moves

Spurs Pursue Attacking Reinforcements Amidst Savinho Setback

Tottenham Hotspur have made signing an attacking player a "priority" before the transfer deadline, following their unsuccessful pursuit of Manchester City winger Savinho. The need for a new forward has become urgent after the departures of key playmakers Son Heung-min and James Maddison, who were instrumental in the team's assists last season.

Spurs are now reportedly considering five potential recruits: Bilal El Khannouss of Monaco, West Ham United's Lucas Paquetá, RB Leipzig's Castello Lukeba, Marseille's Iliman Ndiaye, and Leicester City's Wanya Irie. Among these, El Khannouss and Akliouche are viewed as younger prospects, while Paquetá brings valuable Premier League experience. Xavi Simons remains another target, though Chelsea is also in the race for his signature.

Thomas Frank has reportedly missed out on Savinho.

Real Madrid Targets Midfield and Defensive Exits

Real Madrid are also active in the transfer market, focusing on bolstering their midfield while potentially offloading players to balance their summer spending. The club is eyeing Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton to fill the void left by departing legends Toni Kroos and Luka Modrić. Additionally, Rodrygo, who has fallen out of favor with manager Xabi Alonso, could be sold to generate revenue.

The Spanish giants are also looking to move on defenders David Alaba and Ferland Mendy, both of whom have seen reduced roles due to new signings. However, both players are reportedly hesitant to leave.

Xavi Simons

Barcelona Loans Out Goalkeeper Iñaki Peña

Barcelona has agreed to extend goalkeeper Iñaki Peña's contract before loaning him to Elche. This move allows the club to register new signing Wojciech Szczęsny while providing Elche with much-needed depth. Barcelona is still aiming to offload other players, including Oriol Romeu and Héctor Fort.

Lucas Vázquez Set for Bundesliga Move

Former Real Madrid player Lucas Vázquez is reportedly close to joining Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen on a two-year deal, opting for a move to Germany over Saudi Arabia.

Lucas Vázquez left Real Madrid in July.

Liverpool and Chelsea Dispute Over Young Talent

Liverpool and Chelsea are locked in a dispute over compensation for 16-year-old forward Rio Ngumoha, who has already made a significant impact at Liverpool. Chelsea views Ngumoha as a generational talent and is seeking substantial compensation.