The news that Daniel Levy had been unceremoniously removed from N17 arguably pleased more Tottenham supporters than it frustrated. Whatever personal opinions fans held of Levy himself, football clubs are ultimately judged by silverware — and under his tenure, on-field success was often overshadowed by the club’s expanding commercial portfolio.

With Levy gone, many expected a clear shift in priorities.

There has been talk of the Lewis family spending heavily in the winter window. Yet early signs suggest Spurs may still be circling familiar territory, with rumours pointing towards another unconvincing, low-risk acquisition.

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Spurs Linked With Rangers Midfielder Nico Raskin

One ongoing rumour links Rangers midfielder Nicolas “Nico” Raskin to Tottenham ahead of the January 2026 transfer window.

Spurs have reportedly monitored the 24-year-old Belgian international since October 2025, impressed by his performances for both Rangers and Belgium.

Under Thomas Frank, Raskin is viewed as a potential midfield reinforcement — a player who could add energy, pressing intensity, and depth rather than instant stardom.

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Rangers’ Stance and Transfer Valuation

Rangers are understood to be extremely reluctant to sell Raskin mid-season. However, they may struggle to turn down a significant offer, particularly if the funds can be reinvested into strengthening their squad.

• Estimated fee: £20–25 million

• Potential impact: Could become Rangers’ record sale, surpassing Calvin Bassey’s £19.6m move to Ajax in 2022

At that price point, the deal would represent a major decision for both clubs.

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Player Profile: What Raskin Brings

Raskin is known for:

• High energy and relentless pressing

• Strong duel success in midfield

• Progressive passing from deep areas

Primarily operating as a central or defensive midfielder, he offers work rate and balance rather than headline-grabbing creativity.

Internationally, he made his senior Belgium debut in March 2025 during the Nations League, having previously earned over 50 youth caps. He now has a handful of senior appearances to his name.

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Form Revival and Commitment to Rangers

After struggling early in the 2025–26 season under previous management, Raskin has revived his Rangers career and is once again a central figure in the side.

He has also expressed short-term commitment to the club, further complicating any January move.

At present, there has been no concrete bid — only speculation, with Spurs believed to be monitoring him closely.

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January or Summer — And What It Says About Spurs

A summer 2026 move appears more realistic if a January deal fails to materialise. But given the current state of Tottenham’s squad, this link hardly feels like the beginning of a bold new era.

If anything, it raises familiar concerns.

Spurs need to get control of their transfer strategy and start targeting ready-made, elite-level players — not just high-energy projects. Until that happens, it’s difficult to argue that the page has truly turned in north London.

Jannik Sinner ended 2025 on a high, completing a remarkable hat-trick of titles in Vienna, Paris, and the ATP Finals in Turin, where he played in front of passionate home support.

The world No. 2 can also look back on a stellar season that included retaining the Australian Open, winning his first Wimbledon title, and ending Carlos Alcaraz’s reign on Centre Court in a dramatic final.

However, his year was also overshadowed by a three-month suspension following two failed doping tests at the 2024 Indian Wells Masters.

How the Ban Came About

Sinner was initially cleared by the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA), but the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) later reopened the case.

That decision forced the Italian into a plea agreement, resulting in a three-month ban from February to May, strategically placed between Grand Slam tournaments.

Djokovic Weighs In on the Controversy

The handling of Sinner’s case sparked widespread debate, with Novak Djokovic among those questioning whether the Italian received preferential treatment due to his elite status.

“That cloud will follow him just as the cloud of Covid will follow me,” Djokovic said, referencing his own vaccine controversy.

Djokovic admitted he was shocked by the situation, insisting he did not believe Sinner doped intentionally, but criticised what he described as a lack of transparency, inconsistencies, and the timing of the ban.

“When you see people with similar cases banned for years and he’s banned for three months, it’s not right,” Djokovic added.

The Tournaments Sinner Missed

Sinner’s suspension ruled him out of several key ATP Masters 1000 events, costing him both opportunity and income:

• Indian Wells Masters – potential prize of $1,201,125

• Miami Open – winner’s prize of $1,124,380

• Monte-Carlo Masters – €946,610 claimed by Alcaraz

• Toronto Masters – missed later in the season

Bonus Pool Blow

Missing those Masters events had further consequences. ATP rules require players to compete in all marquee events to qualify for the ATP Bonus Pool.

As a result, Sinner missed out on a payment estimated at around $2 million, significantly increasing the overall financial impact of his ban.

Total Financial Impact

Despite a hugely successful year financially — earning $19,114,396 in official prize money and an additional $6.5 million from the Six Kings Slam exhibition event in Saudi Arabia — the suspension still carried a heavy cost.

In total, including lost prize money and the Bonus Pool payment, Sinner’s ban is estimated to have cost him around $5 million.

A Missed Chance at Year-End No. 1

Perhaps the most significant sporting consequence was the loss of momentum in the ATP rankings.

Sinner’s three-month absence opened the door for Carlos Alcaraz to secure the year-end world No. 1 ranking, a title the Italian may have challenged for had he remained active.

Reputation Damage Still Lingers

While the financial hit was substantial, the reputational stain from the doping case may prove even more damaging in the long run — a cloud that, as Djokovic suggested, could follow Sinner throughout his career.

Rangers could be forced into a difficult decision in the January transfer window, with growing Premier League interest in one of their most important players.

According to Football Insider, Tottenham Hotspur are monitoring Nicolas Raskin, and Ibrox sources believe Rangers would struggle to ignore a “significant offer” should one arrive.

The Belgian international is viewed as a crucial part of the club’s plans, but a major bid from Spurs could put Rangers under serious pressure to sell.

Raskin Interest Intensifies

Raskin has been on Tottenham’s radar since October, with Spurs scouts impressed by his recent performances for both Rangers and Belgium.

While Rangers are said to be extremely reluctant to lose the 24-year-old, insiders suggest the club may have little choice if a substantial offer is tabled in January. Raskin remains a hugely influential figure at Ibrox, but financial reality could dictate the final outcome.

Celtic Handed AFCON Boost

Celtic have received welcome news ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations, with Kelechi Iheanacho not included in Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming tournament in Morocco.

The Super Eagles announced a strong selection featuring Victor Osimhen, Alex Iwobi, and former Rangers striker Cyriel Dessers, but Iheanacho was left out.

Iheanacho Nearing Full Fitness

The 29-year-old has missed Celtic’s last six Scottish Premiership matches due to injury, but new manager Wilfried Nancy has provided a positive update on his recovery.

Iheanacho has returned to training and made appearances off the bench against Hearts and Roma, as he works his way back to full match sharpness.

“He has trained well,” Nancy said ahead of the Roma match.
“He needs minutes — it has been two months since he really played.
For now, he’s not ready for a lot of minutes, but a few, yes.”

AFCON Timeline Explained

Players selected for AFCON must report to their national teams by December 15, with the tournament running until January 18, when the final will be played.

Had Iheanacho been selected, Celtic could have been without him for over a month — making his omission a timely boost as the club navigate a busy festive schedule.

Tottenham Hotspur are determined to fend off growing interest from Europe’s elite in highly-rated young centre-back Luka Vušković, with sources revealing a clear plan to put an end to the speculation.

Spurs have already knocked back enquiries from several top clubs — including Bayern Munich — and now believe decisive action could fully secure the 18-year-old’s future in north London.

Loan Spell Paying Off as Interest Grows

Vušković trained with Tottenham for the first time this summer and caught the eye during pre-season. Despite those impressive performances, Spurs opted to loan him to Hamburg, where he has been covering for his suspended brother, Mario Vušković.

This marks the third loan move of Vušković’s young career since signing for Tottenham in 2023. Yet, despite his age, he already boasts over 70 senior appearances, underlining his rapid development.

His form in the Bundesliga has been outstanding, to the point where Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig have both approached Spurs to explore his situation.

Spurs Make Their Stance Clear

Tottenham have been firm in their response, making it clear that Vušković remains a key part of their long-term plans — a position also echoed recently by TEAMtalk’s Dean Jones.

Sources now suggest that senior figures at the club are discussing whether to recall Vušković in January, partly to cool down outside interest and reinforce their commitment to the player.

January Recall Under Consideration

Spurs do have the option to bring Vušković back during a specific January window, and internal talks around that possibility are ongoing.

Hamburg, however, are keen to keep him. The teenager has been an excellent stand-in for Mario Vušković, who is suspended until November 2026 following a drugs ban.

Set-Piece Threat and Standout Performer

Vušković has made a big impact at both ends of the pitch. He has scored two goals in 13 matches this season, including a spectacular back-heeled volley against Werder Bremen.

His reputation as a set-piece danger was already established during last season’s loan at Westerlo, where he scored seven goals. He also found the net and provided an assist for Spurs during a pre-season win over Reading.

Those displays led many Tottenham supporters to view him as an ideal rotational option behind Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven, making his Hamburg loan something of a surprise.

Long-Term View — But a Swift Return Possible

Tottenham believe regular football in a top European league is beneficial for both the player and the club. However, with elite sides circling, a quicker-than-expected return to north London remains a real possibility — one designed to silence the growing noise around Vušković’s future.

Other Tottenham Transfer Notes

• Spurs are monitoring Ademola Lookman’s situation ahead of January, though two “dream” winger targets are believed to be higher on the club’s shortlist.

• Ivan Toney reportedly failed to impress Thomas Tuchel during his last England camp, a factor that could influence any Premier League return amid Tottenham interest.

• Despite his strong form at Marseille, Mason Greenwood is still considered unlikely to move back to the Premier League, even with Spurs mentioned as a possible destination.

Leeds United and Nottingham Forest are among the Premier League clubs showing interest in Hibernian midfielder Josh Mulligan ahead of the January transfer window.

According to Foot Mercato, the 23-year-old has emerged as a concrete target, with reports suggesting his contract includes a modest release clause that could be activated during the winter window.

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Rising Interest in Hibernian Midfielder

Hibernian are hopeful that interest in Mulligan will cool, but the Scottish midfielder’s strong performances in the Premiership have attracted growing attention. Leeds United and Nottingham Forest are currently leading the chase, with both clubs keen to reinforce their midfield options.

Mulligan is a versatile player, primarily operating in central midfield, but he is also capable of playing on the right side depending on tactical demands.

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Nottingham Forest’s Midfield Plans

Nottingham Forest are actively looking to strengthen their midfield and view Mulligan as a profile that fits their long-term planning. The club have also been linked with Lyon midfielder Tyler Morton, as they prepare for a possible departure of Elliot Anderson in January or next summer.

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Leeds United Monitoring Affordable Options

Leeds United are also in the market for midfield reinforcements. While Gabriel Sara of Galatasaray is among their reported targets, Mulligan represents a potentially more cost-effective option if his release clause proves favourable.

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Is a Premier League Move on the Cards?

With Mulligan’s reported winter release clause, both Leeds United and Nottingham Forest are expected to explore the possibility of a swift deal. However, Premier League clubs are not alone in the race.

Interest from Wolfsburg and LOSC Lille adds continental competition, meaning a move to Germany or France remains a realistic alternative. For now, the English clubs may hold the edge, but the race for Mulligan’s signature remains open.

Tottenham Hotspur are prepared to sanction the departure of Yves Bissouma in January following another disciplinary violation, sources report.

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Bissouma’s Future Already Uncertain

The Mali international’s future at Spurs had been in doubt for some time. He is no longer part of Thomas Frank’s plans, has not played a single minute this season, and his contract is set to expire at the end of the campaign. Tottenham now appear ready to push hard for a January exit.

According to talkSPORT, the club’s decision follows footage emerging of Bissouma allegedly inhaling laughing gas, marking the second time in two seasons that he has been caught in such an incident.

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From Key Player to Outcast

Bissouma joined Spurs from Brighton in the summer of 2022 for £25 million, and he was an integral part of the team in his initial years. He had a decent role last season under Ange Postecoglou, but things have changed under Thomas Frank.

The midfielder has slipped down the pecking order and has reportedly fallen out with Frank. He was dropped from Spurs’ Super Cup squad against PSG for turning up late to training and subsequently excluded from the Champions League squad.

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Galatasaray Emerge as Potential Destination

With Spurs unwilling to offer a contract extension, they are determined to offload Bissouma in January. The club is reportedly not seeking a transfer fee and would be happy to see him leave.

Galatasaray have emerged as a potential landing spot. The Turkish giants showed interest in the summer but could not finalize a deal. They are now expected to renew their pursuit in January.

The departure of a Tottenham legend last summer left the club’s players emotional, with Son Heung-min revealing the profound impact it had on his close friend and teammate, Ben Davies.

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Emotional Farewell

Son bid farewell to Tottenham Hotspur after a decade-long spell at the club, finishing with an impressive 173 goals and 101 assists in 454 appearances. He played a pivotal role in bringing European glory back to Spurs with their Europa League triumph before moving to Los Angeles FC in MLS alongside Thomas Frank.

Witnessing his exit, Son admitted it was tough to see the emotional toll on his teammates.

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Ben Davies Breaks Down

Reflecting on the moment, Son told BeIn Sports Thailand:

“It was the first time I saw my good friend Ben Davies cry like that. He kept saying, ‘Don’t get too close to me.’ Seeing him tearing up, with his eyes going red and all, made me feel sorry and thankful at the same time. A mixture of feelings really. But as the godfather of his son, I need to strive for more to make my godson proud. I want to try and become a better person, footballer, and godfather.”

Davies’ emotional reaction highlights the lasting impact Son had on his colleagues and how deeply he is missed at Tottenham.

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A Heartfelt Return

Son returned to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Tuesday night for the Champions League clash with Slavia Prague, where he was honoured for his decade-long contribution to the club.

Over 47,000 fans gathered to salute the South Korean forward, their cheers echoing around the stadium as he stepped onto the pitch.

Son admitted he anticipated the emotional reunion:

“It will be emotional. But it’s important for me and the club that this happens. I never got a proper chance to say goodbye to fans at the stadium. Now I am so happy because I am going to come back to London on 9th December for the Champions League match and be able to tell the Spurs fans in person just how much their support and love over 10 years has meant to me and my family.”

Tottenham Hotspur have decided to allow Mikey Moore to remain on loan at Rangers for the rest of the season, sources have confirmed to Football Insider. The 18-year-old winger has seen his fortunes improve significantly under Danny Rohl, after a difficult start to his loan spell under Russell Martin.

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Spurs Considered Recalling Moore

Initially, Tottenham were weighing the option of recalling Moore in January and loaning him to an English Championship club. However, sources indicate that Spurs are now satisfied with the game time Moore is receiving at Rangers and expect him to continue enjoying a similar level of involvement under Rohl until the end of the campaign.

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Improvement Under Danny Rohl

Moore struggled for minutes in the early stages of his Rangers loan. Yet, his situation has dramatically improved, and his performances have started to reflect his potential.

Recently returning from injury, Moore featured in Rangers’ 3-0 victory over Kilmarnock, coming off the bench to score the third goal. He now has goals in back-to-back games, having previously scored against Dundee in November before his injury lay-off.

This run of form marks a clear improvement from his early days under Martin, when he recorded only one assist. Since Rohl’s arrival, Moore has made three starts, demonstrating his growing importance to the team.

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Rangers Fans Turn on Moore — Then Back

Moore initially faced criticism from Rangers fans due to inconsistent performances. However, as his form has improved, so has his popularity. He received praise for his impact in the Premier Sports Cup semi-final defeat to Celtic, and has continued to contribute goals and assists regularly.

While he faces competition from Djeidi Gassama for the role of first-choice winger, Moore’s status as one of the few high-quality options in that position gives him a strong chance to maintain his place.

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Tottenham Confident in His Development

With Spurs now confirmed not to recall the youngster, Moore has the perfect platform to continue developing and increase his performance levels before returning next summer.

Background: Sinner’s Positive Test and Investigation

Jannik Sinner twice tested positive for clostebol, prompting the ITIA to investigate the case privately. The final verdict stated that Sinner did not knowingly or intentionally use a banned substance.
According to the official explanation, physio Giacomo Naldi applied an over-the-counter spray during treatment, unknowingly introducing the prohibited substance into Sinner’s system.

Kyrgios’ Initial Reaction

From the moment the case became public, Nick Kyrgios was one of the loudest voices calling for strict action.
He questioned the consistency of anti-doping procedures and accused authorities of giving Sinner preferential treatment.
When WADA later appealed the ITIA ruling and Sinner received a three-month ban, Kyrgios openly celebrated the decision.

Djokovic’s Comments on the Case

Last month, during an interview with Piers Morgan, Novak Djokovic weighed in on the controversy.
Djokovic noted that the doping issue would continue to “follow Sinner,” comparing it to how COVID-related scrutiny has followed him throughout his career.

Kyrgios Replies to Djokovic

Kyrgios was also interviewed by Morgan this week, where he addressed Djokovic’s remarks.

He stated:

• His stance on the case has remained consistent.

• Djokovic made an important point: regardless of intent, Sinner is responsible for what enters his body.

• The overall handling of the situation “wasn’t a good look for the sport,” especially considering Sinner was the world No. 1 at the time.

Praise for Sinner’s Comeback

Despite his criticism of the case’s management, Kyrgios acknowledged Sinner’s impressive return to the court following his three-month ban.
He even predicted that the 24-year-old Italian could end up as “one of the greatest” in tennis history.

A South Korean court has handed a four-year jail sentence to a woman in her 20s who blackmailed football superstar Son Heung-min by falsely claiming she was pregnant with his child. Her accomplice, a man in his 40s, also received a two-year sentence.

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False Pregnancy Claim Used to Extort Money

According to Seoul district court findings, the woman approached Son last year, insisting she was carrying his child — despite not knowing whether this was true. She demanded money and threatened to expose the claim publicly if he did not comply.

• She extorted 300 million won (approx. $200,000 / £153,000).

• The money was reportedly spent on luxury and designer items.

Prosecutors argued she had “planned the crime thoroughly,” emphasising that her attempts to portray herself as a victim did not match the facts.

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Accomplice Also Sentenced

The woman’s accomplice played an active role by threatening Son at least 15 times in an attempt to secure more money. He was found guilty of attempted blackmail and received a two-year jail term.

After the pair demanded additional money earlier this year, Son reported the matter to police, leading to their arrest.

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Judge: Son Suffered ‘Intense Mental Anguish’

The court noted that the pair had exploited Son’s global fame to carry out their scheme. The judge remarked that the footballer appeared to have suffered “intense mental anguish” once the allegations became public.

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Son Heung-min: One of Asia’s Biggest Football Icons

Son remains one of Asia’s most celebrated athletes:

• In October, he was named the second-highest-paid player in MLS.

• He joined Los Angeles FC in August from Tottenham Hotspur in the most expensive transfer in MLS history.

• The 33-year-old spent 10 years at Spurs and, in 2022, became the first Asian footballer to win the Premier League Golden Boot.

His popularity in South Korea and across Asia remains immense.