Tottenham Hotspur could complete the signing of Torino right-wing back Wilfried Singo immediately if they are willing to pay £18m, according to a new report.

The Lowdown: Tottenham target right-wing back

Antonio Conte has made it quite clear that he desires a new right-wing back in the January transfer window, with journalist Rudy Galetti reporting that he also has Denzel Dumfries on his radar, owing to disappointing performances from Emerson Royal. (via Sport Witness)

The Netherlands international would set Tottenham back around £26m, while other target Pedro Porro is believed to have a release clause worth £39m included in his contract with Sporting.

As such, Spurs may now turn their attentions to a cheaper option, with Singo potentially fitting the bill…

The Latest: Singo available?

According to Sport Witness, who are relaying information from La Stampa, the Ivorian ‘could leave immediately if the right offer arrives’, which would need to be at least £18m.

The full-back is said to be liked by Napoli, while also admired from teams in Spain and England, so there is likely to be a battle for his signature.

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The Verdict: Worth it?

With Emerson failing to impress, it is clear that Conte must strengthen in his area of the pitch, and the 22-year-old would be a very good option to have, and a cheaper alternative to the other names linked.

Lauded as being a ‘revelation’ by Serie A analyst Matteo Bonetti, the youngster has wide array of talents, but particularly flourishes at dribbling, registering an average of 1.29 completed dribbles per 90 over the past year, placing him in the 88th percentile compared to positional peers.

Emerson, on the other hand, has averaged just 0.66 in that timeframe, highlighting that he is not cut out for the system being implemented at Tottenham, which relies on attacking contributions from the wing-backs.

The 6 foot 3 colossus would also be useful to have at corners, such is his dominance in the air, in the 95th percentile for aerials won per 90, proving himself as a multi-talented player who would bring a range of different qualities to Tottenham.

Celtic’s latest Old Firm derby stalemate saw World Cup star Josip Juranovic endure a grim return to club action, with the Croatia international having produced an unusually shaky display after entering the fray early in the first half.

The 27-year-old had been called into action following an injury to usual left-back Greg Taylor inside the opening 20 minutes, although the former Legia Warsaw man looked distinctly uncomfortable in that role, having “nearly cost” his side at Ibrox, as per The Athletic’s Owen Brown.

The attacking right-back – who did feature on the left of the defence on 13 occasions last term – was no doubt culpable for Ryan Kent’s equaliser after being caught out of position in the build-up to the goal, having also been far too easily outmuscled by the lively Fashion Sakala.

The latter man had given Juranovic something of a “torching” – in the words of journalist Jonny McFarlane – as the Hoops defender was simply unable to deal with the winger’s sheer pace and directness down the flanks.

Such were his woes, former Bhoys striker Scott McDonald noted that it looked as if the £16k-per-week man was “still in Qatar”, while another former Paradise hero – Chris Sutton – stated that the 27-cap dud had been “awful” and “terrible” on the day.

Following what was “possibly one of his worst performances for Celtic” – according to Glasgow Live’s Matthew Fulton – it looks as if Juranovic could well be leaving on something of a sour note, amid rampant reports that some of Europe’s top clubs are chasing his signature.

On the basis of that latest outing, Postecoglou should have no qualms about ditching the highly-coveted asset this month, particularly with the title-winning coach already having a potential replacement within his ranks.

The former Yokohama F. Marinos boss could well turn to promising full-back Ben McPherson if the Glasgow side are to allow Juranovic to depart in the near future, with the 18-year-old currently shining in the youth ranks.

The promising Scotsman has scored once and registered one assist in 18 appearances in all competitions so far this term, having solidified his place at right-back for the club’s ‘B’ team of late.

The teenager was also part of the U19 side that defeated RB Leipzig in the UEFA Youth League earlier this season, with that exciting crop of youngsters having been lauded as “terrific” by youth boss Stephen McManus.

Such form was recently rewarded with a new contract extension, with the Scotland youth international having committed himself to the club until 2025, showcasing just how highly thought of he is by those at Paradise.

A player who has “worked tremendously hard” – according to McManus – McPherson could well be the next figure to force his way into the first-team reckoning, with the impending exit of Monday’s derby day villain, Juranovic, potentially set to open the door for a chance at senior level.

West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice is now ‘pretty set’ on leaving the club, according to transfer expert Dean Jones.

The Lowdown: Rice’s West Ham future

The 23-year-old has long been linked with a move away from the Irons, but Chelsea are now said to have the edge in the race for his signature, given his previous affiliation with the club.

The same report from The Athletic also claims that Manchester City and Manchester United have both registered their interest, so there will be no shortage of Premier League options for the Englishman should he choose not to extend his stay at the London Stadium.

The Latest: Rice ‘pretty set’ on leaving West Ham

It appears as though the 23-year-old not committing his future to West Ham is now the likely scenario, judging by Jones’ most recent comments to GIVEMESPORT.

When asked whether some Premier League clubs now being interested in Sofyan Amrabat could help the Irons hold onto Rice, the journalist replied:“I don’t think so, no. Rice is pretty set, from what I hear from other people, on leaving West Ham no matter what happens. I don’t see much that could happen at other clubs or at West Ham that could change his mind.”

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The Verdict: Blow for West Ham

It is no secret just how vital the midfielder is for David Moyes’ side, having averaged a 7.19 SofaScore rating in the Premier League last season, the highest of any player in the West Ham squad.

Despite the Hammers’ poor start to the campaign, Rice has gotten better, as indicated by a 7.27 SofaScore rating this term, with his all-round game a cut above the other players at the London Stadium.

An average pass completion rate of 90.2% over the past year places him in the 95th percentile compared to his positional peers in Europe’s top five leagues, while he has also weighed in with 1.84 interceptions per 90, which sees him rank in the 93rd percentile.

Losing a player of this significance would be a huge blow for West Ham, but given that he is contracted until 2024 – with the option for an extra year – the saving grace is that they will be able to hold out for an astronomical transfer fee.

Tottenham have identified England international Jordan Pickford as their ‘main objective’ to replace goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, according to reports.

The Lowdown: Spurs think to future…

Recent reports have suggested that Spurs boss Antonio Conte and sporting director Fabio Paratici are thinking of Lloris’ successor as the Frenchman enters his twilight years.

The World Cup finalist, now 35-years-old, could be nearing the end of what has been a stellar ten-year stay in the Premier League after his 2012 move from Lyon.

Conte and Paratici have reportedly identified their top target to succeed Lloris between the sticks, and it’s apparently Everton’s number one.

The Latest: Pickford ‘main objective’ for Spurs…

According to Italian sources, the former Sunderland shot-stopper has climbed to the top of Spurs’ transfer wish list with the club ‘already looking beyond’ Lloris.

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TUTTOmercatoWEB claim the saga could ‘take shape’ next season and Pickford is now the ‘main objective’ for Paratici and co.

The Verdict: Right man…

Pickford’s performances for the Three Lions in Qatar highlight just how dependable he can be and we believe the homegrown ace is a perfect target for Tottenham.

Called a ‘real leader’ by members of the media, he could take up Lloris’ role in that regard, not to mention his ‘world class’ distribution could be a real asset.

Valued at around £25 million by Transfermarkt, Pickford is still just 28-years-old and could serve Spurs for a long while after he is potentially signed.

Tottenham Hotspur wouldn’t have a problem convincing Kyle Walker-Peters to re-join, according to Pete O’Rourke.

The Lowdown: Spurs struggles

Tottenham may move to re-sign their former academy graduate Walker-Peters with their terrible defensive form potentially looking to be resurrected in the January window.

Antonio Conte’s side slumped to a 2-0 defeat against Aston Villa in the Premier League on Sunday night, the tenth game in a row they’ve conceded the first goal.

Unlike their previous encounter against Brentford, they were unable to overturn this two-goal deficit and failed to reclaim a top-four place after Manchester United leapfrogged them on Saturday.

The Latest: Walker-Peters touted

One glaring area for improvement at Spurs is the right wing-back role with Djed Spence a completely forgotten man with only four league appearances all season and Emerson Royal and Matt Doherty flattering to deceive.

The Athletic reported that the Southampton right-back would be a realistic signing, with O’Rourke telling GiveMeSport that he’d be ready to return.

“Southampton look like they’re in a real relegation dogfight now, so I think if Spurs did come calling for Kyle Walker-Peters, even though he’s already left the club once, he would find it hard to turn down the opportunity to return to the club.”

The Verdict: Get him in

Walker-Peters left Spurs on an initial loan deal that soon became a £12m permanent move with the Lilywhites bringing Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg the other way.

After being stuck behind both Serge Aurier and Kieran Trippier whilst in North London, the 25-year-old has flourished on the south coast with him by far one of their best players as he was rewarded with his maiden England caps last season.

With the Saints embroiled in a relegation scrap, KWP would prove an interested and smart acquisition back at Spurs with him in the top 3% for dribbles completed amongst full-backs (via FBref), proving his attacking prowess in that role.

Wolverhampton Wanderers are reportedly interested in signing Angers SCO midfielder Azzedine Ounahi in January and his potential arrival at Molineux could allow new boss Julen Lopetegui to finally ditch Joao Moutinho.

According to 90min, the Midlands outfit are one of several Premier League clubs taking an interest in the 22-year-old midfielder, who caught the eye on the world’s stage in Qatar, playing a crucial role in Morocco’s run to the semi-finals.

The Atlas Lions defeated Belgium, Spain and Portugal before their defeat against France in the final four, with Ounahi featuring seven times and earning a strong 6.72 average rating from WhoScored for his performances.

Journalist Zach Lowy was certainly impressed with the youngster’s displays in Qatar and tipped him for a big move in 2023 on Twitter.

He wrote:

“Azzedine Ounahi is 22 years old, is playing for the bottom-ranked team in Ligue 1, and has been sensational alongside Sofyan Amrabat and Selim Amallah in Morocco’s midfield. Can see him getting a big move after this tournament.”

Leicester City, Newcastle United, Southampton and West Ham United were also credited with an interest in the young World Cup star, so it was perhaps always going to be a challenge to convince him to move to Molineux next month.

However, Lopetegui has already proven that he can attract players from the top level, as Matheus Cunha joined on a loan-to-buy deal, so if the Old Gold are willing to pay the reported £22m asking price for Ounahi, there seems no reason why he couldn’t be featuring in Wolves’ midfield in the second half of the season.

Should he arrive at Molineux, he would likely compete with Moutinho for a starting spot alongside Matheus Nunes and Ruben Neves in Lopetegui’s midfield.

Although the Portuguese veteran still has moments of quality, with his pass for Daniel Podence’s goal against Everton on Boxing Day a prime example, he no longer has the legs to be a regular starter in the top flight.

Ounahi scores in the top 1% and top 30% percentile for dribbles completed and the number of times dribbled past when compared to other midfielders in Europe’s top leagues, whereas Moutinho scores in the bottom 13% and worst possible percentile for the same statistics, which emphasises he doesn’t have the energy to be effective in a relegation battle.

Sadly, the former Porto man’s form, according to WhoScored, has been declining rapidly in recent seasons and if Ounahi does join in January, it could well be the beginning of the end for the 36-year-old at Wolves.

BBC pundit Chris Sutton has questioned Aston Villa manager Unai Emery for his team selection following the club’s shock recent defeat.

What’s the latest?

Over the past weekend, in the third round of the FA Cup, the Villans were dumped out of the tournament losing 2-1 at home to League Two side Stevenage.

Indeed, things looked to be going to plan when Morgan Sanson gave Villa a first-half lead. However, Leander Dendoncker was then shown a straight red card late on as Jamie Reid equalised from the resulting penalty before Dean Campbell scored a 90th-minute winner.

While speaking about the result on BBC Radio Show 606, Sutton questioned Emery for his team lineup and said it was a ‘damaging’ loss for the new manager.

He explained: “Were you happy about the change of personnel? I mean, Villa weren’t the only team to do it but, I don’t know, it always disappoints me, that.

“I mean, Villa haven’t been flying this season, of course. Unai Emery [now] in the door. But this is a damaging defeat for him, isn’t it?”

Big mistake?

Emery has done fairly well since taking over at Aston Villa shortly before the break for the winter World Cup. Indeed, he has managed the club for five Premier League games, winning three, drawing one and losing one.

However, tasting defeat in the FA Cup to League Two opposition certainly will not help win over any supporters who were on the fence about his appointment.

In his starting team, the Spaniard opted to start backup players such as Robin Olson, Calum Chambers, Jan Bednarek and Morgan Sanson. While the likes of Emi Martinez, Tyrone Mings, and Ollie Watkins were all benched.

Clearly, he underestimated Stevenage and his plan to rotate the team backfired. Villa last won the FA Cup in 1957 and they’ll have to wait another year now before they can challenge for the title again.

Tottenham Hotspur fans have been provided an update on the future of Lucas Moura by transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.

The Lowdown: Moura’s Tottenham future

Moura’s Tottenham contract does not expire until June 2024, however he has evidently started to fall down the pecking order at the club, with Antonio Conte giving him far less game time than he has become accustomed to.

The winger made 34 Premier League appearances last season, but this term he has only been selected for a total of 90 minutes across eight league outings, being utilised as more of an impact player, in part due to a calf injury that ruled him out for eight games.

The Latest: Romano’s update

Romano took to Twitter to dispel the rumours from the last few weeks that the Brazilian has been in talks with boyhood club Sao Paulo, but he details that he could leave at the end of the season, saying:

“There are no talks between São Paulo and Tottenham for Lucas Moura, as things stand.

“Brazilian winger could stay at Spurs until the end of the season and then leave as free agent in June, this is the expectation.”

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The Verdict: Right move?

With Dejan Kulusevski being ruled out of the game against Aston Villa on New Year’s Day, it is the correct decision for Conte to keep Lucas at the club until the summer, as he is still a good back-up option to have

Lauded as ‘outrageous’ at his best by journalist James Ducker, the 30-year-old has averaged 0.32 assists per 90 over the past year, placing him in the 84th percentile compared to his positional peers, highlighting that he is still very much a threat going forward.

Moura is still injured at the moment, with Conte unable to provide any concrete date on when he is likely to return, but when he is back to full fitness, he will be a helpful player for Tottenham in their push for the top four, and the club can then sign a younger replacement in the summer.

Pundit Tam McManus has said that he is ‘buzzing’ for Alexander Isak after hearing that the Swedish striker could return from injury for Newcastle United in the FA Cup this weekend.

The Lowdown: Isak could feature…

As per The Telegraph, the 23-year-old is set to play a role in Newcastle’s FA Cup clash at Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday evening, having sustained a thigh injury which has kept him out of action since September.

Eddie Howe has since given an update on Isak’s situation in his pre-game press conference, stating that he will put the striker through training and will then see whether he is fit enough to make an appearance at Hillsborough.

The Latest: ‘Unbelievable news’

Speaking to Football Insider, McManus has claimed that he is ‘buzzing’ for Isak after hearing of his potential return, calling it ‘unbelievable news’ for the player and for Newcastle.

The 41-year-old said: “I’m buzzing for him, that’s unbelievable news. I feel like all we have talked about for the last few months is when is he coming back? So to hear he could play this weekend is huge.

“I think if he comes on instead of Chris Wood in that Arsenal game then Newcastle get the win, he is that much of a difference maker.

“This is a high-quality player who cost a load of money and we have seen how well Newcastle’s other signings have done.

“Bringing him on against League One opposition is a good move, sensible. That gets him ready for a return to the Premier League and honestly, he could be the difference in the race for the top four. It’s seriously unbelievable news for the fans.”

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The Verdict: Big boost for Newcastle

Having Isak back is no doubt a big boost for Newcastle in terms of their chances of going through in the FA Cup, as well as for their next run of Premier League fixtures.

The Magpies’ club-record signing got off to a great start in his career on Tyneside, scoring two goals in his opening three games, including one on his debut against Liverpool at Anfield (Transfermarkt).

Considering Callum Wilson’s injury history and Chris Wood’s goal-shy form at St James’ Park, Newcastle will realistically need to keep Isak fit from now until the end of the season if they want to maintain their push for a Champions League place.

Barcelona are interested in a move for Bayern Munich defender Benjamin Pavard, who could depart the club in the summer, according to Fabrizio Romano.

What’s the word?

The 2018 World Cup winner could leave Bayern following claims he has been left frustrated behind the scenes, and his contract runs out in 18 months’ time.

Romano claims Barcelona are interested in the defender as they look to increase their quality at full-back. Jules Kounde has often played on the flanks this term, but his natural position is typically in the centre.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano revealed that Barcelona are targeting the Frenchman with a view to a move.

He said: “We can confirm that Benjamin Pavard from Bayern is one of the names Barcelona are considering.

“He is a player appreciated, the relationship with his agent is excellent.

“From what I understand, there is a very good chance that Pavard will leave Bayern in the summer despite the statements of Bayern in public.”

A top-class addition

Despite his recent troubles at Bayern, Pavard is a quality defender with bags of experience at the top level.

He ranks in the top 2% of top-level full-backs for passes, progressive passes and interceptions, highlighting his strong ability on the ball, making him ideal for Xavi’s pass-leading side.

With Alejandro Balde or Jordi Alba operating as an attacking full-back on the left, having an option who is good on the ball and strong defensively on the opposite side is crucial, and his signing could even allow Kounde to return to the centre.

If a financially viable deal can be struck, he could be an excellent addition to the Barcelona squad for years to come.

However, one thing to possibly watch out for is his behaviour as he was dubbed a “toxic mole” for supposed leaks with France.