Sources: Tottenham to block first-XI player transfer after reveal

Jan 16, 2026 - 22:00
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Sources: Tottenham to block first-XI player transfer after reveal

Tottenham have no plans to allow Mathys Tel to leave in the January transfer window and will block both loan and permanent offers for him.

Sources say speculation about the 20-year-old’s future is being driven by the player and his camp rather than Spurs, as he is keen to assess his options.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Tel has struggled to establish himself under Thomas Frank and could move on as a result.

Tel has started just seven of his 19 appearances under Frank, and is keen to play more regular football, but Spurs’ inconsistencies up front could prevent a move.

Roma are among the clubs interested in Tel, but it is considered highly unlikely that he will be allowed to move on before the mid-season window closes.

Mathys Tel in action for Tottenham
Credit: Imago

Mathys Tel pushing to leave Tottenham

Former Spurs scout Mick Brown told Football Insider on 15 January that Frank could block Tel leaving Tottenham and will make the final call on his future.

Richarlison is not trusted to lead the line regularly, while Dominic Solanke‘s injury issues have led to lingering doubts about whether he can be relied upon.

On top of that, injuries to the likes of James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski and Mohammed Kudus mean the boss is not willing to let more players leave.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “Yeah, it’s difficult. Right now Spurs don’t want to let anybody go.

“They’ve already seen Brennan Johnson leave to join Crystal Palace, so that’s weakened their attacking options, and they’ve had injury problems all season.

“Maddison has been out long-term, Kulusevski has been out long-term. They’ve struggled for goals up front as well.

“This is all being driven by Mathys Tel, who’s keen on a move away to boost his chances of making France’s World Cup squad.

Thomas Frank looking serious whilst clapping for Tottenham
Credit: Imago

“He’s struggled to make an impact under Thomas Frank, only started six games this season, but he’s got three goals for Tottenham.

“As things stand, Frank doesn’t want to lose any of his squad because he needs them if Tottenham are to turn around their fortunes.”

Could Tottenham sack Thomas Frank soon?

Football Insider revealed on 10 January that Frank could be sacked by Tottenham if his side fail to beat struggling West Ham at home this weekend.

Following that, Football Insider revealed on 13 January that Tottenham could appoint an interim manager until the end of the season if they part ways with Frank.

That would mean they could set their sights on another new appointment in the summer rather than being forced to rush into a decision now.

Former Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino
Credit: Getty Images

Meanwhile, Football Insider revealed on 16 January that Mauricio Pochettino is open to re-joining Tottenham should they part ways with Frank.

The boss is set to lead the hosts U.S.A at the World Cup this summer, but could become available after the tournament which may suit Spurs’ plan.

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The post Sources: Tottenham to block first-XI player transfer after reveal appeared first on Football Insider.

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