A dream partner for Gray: Spurs open talks to sign £26m English star
Tottenham Hotspur have a huge January transfer window ahead of them if they are to be successful under Thomas Frank between now and the remainder of the campaign.
Various areas of the pitch are in need of investment, especially considering the Lilywhites are currently occupying a place in the bottom half of the Premier League.
The Dane has no doubt been under pressure as a result, with the 52-year-old potentially suffering the same fate as the likes of Enzo Maresca and Ruben Amorim, who have both been sacked.
Brennan Johnson’s departure to Crystal Palace has already handed the manager some immediate funds to work with this winter, but it remains to be seen how much he will have available.
However, with the window now open, the hierarchy must act quickly to secure the services of numerous players to avoid missing out on them to any of their rivals.
Spurs in contact for top European midfielder
Over the last couple of days, Spurs have been named as just one of the Premier League clubs involved in the hunt to land Brighton and Hove Albion star Carlos Baleba.
The Lilywhites have been credited with an interest in recent days, but they face stern competition from Liverpool and Manchester United for his signature this winter.
However, any deal would be a club-record one for Frank’s men, with the Seagulls currently demanding a fee in the region of £100m to part ways with the Cameroonian international.
Baleba isn’t the only midfield option currently in their sights, with Atlético Madrid star Conor Gallagher another option being considered by the Spurs hierarchy.
According to TEAMtalk, Frank’s men have already reached out to the LaLiga side over a deal for the Englishman, with a loan or permanent deal currently being considered.
It also states that Diego Simeone’s side are demanding a fee in the region of €30m (£25m) for the 25-year-old, who’s featured 19 times in Spain’s top-flight this campaign.
Why Gallagher would be perfect for Gray at Spurs
In an attempt to lead Spurs up the Premier League table in recent weeks, Frank has finally shown faith in youngster Archie Gray to provide the goods at the heart of the side.
The 19-year-old joined in a £40m deal from Leeds United in the summer of 2024, but despite racking up 56 appearances, many of which have been in an unnatural role.
However, he’s currently endured a run of seven successive starts at the heart of the side, often partnering Uruguayan international Rodrigo Bentancur in front of the backline.
Gray has caught the eye during such a run, even managing to net his first senior career goal during the recent 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
However, despite his impressive spell in the first-team, he desperately needs another top talent alongside him to aid his progression in North London.
Gallagher could provide exactly that should he make a move back to the Premier League, with the Atletico star a player who could be the perfect partner for Gray.
His underlying stats from the ongoing campaign showcase the levels he’s currently performing at, highlighting what an excellent addition he would be to Frank’s men.
Gallagher, who’s been dubbed “sensational” by journalist John Cross, has thrived in possession as seen by his tallies of 92% passes completed, with 4.1 of his efforts per 90 going into the final third.
Such numbers showcase his incredible ball-playing ability, which would hand another super orchestrator in possession, which could aid his possession-based system.
Comor Gallagher – LaLiga stats (2025/26)
Statistics (per 90)
Tally
Games played
19
Goals & assists
2
Pass accuracy
92%
Progressive passes
3.8
Passes into final third
4.1
Tackles won
3.1
Interceptions made
2.2
Blocks made
1.3
% of tackles won
58%
Stats via FBref
However, out of possession is where the former Chelsea star has made a name for himself, as seen by his remarkable tally of 3.4 tackles won per 90 in 2025/26. There is a reason he’s been described as an “intensity monster” by some.
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The aforementioned tally puts him in the top 15% of all players in the division, which further reaffirms his quality at regaining the ball for his side when under the cosh.
He’s also managed to make 2.2 interceptions per 90, along with 1.3 blocks made per 90, with Gallagher the perfect box-to-box option for Frank this winter.
Such talents would take some of the defensive responsibilities off the shoulders of Gray, which could free the youngster up and allow him to reach his full potential.
A loan and permanent deal are being considered by the Lilywhites hierarchy at present, with either move massively suiting Spurs given the quality the Englishman possesses.
His experience in the Premier League and Europe is also a massive selling point, which in turn could also allow Gray to learn off him and add a new dimension to his current skillset.
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