Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly launched a formal bid to sign highly-rated Brazilian defender Souza from Santos, as manager Thomas Frank seeks to revitalise his squad during the January transfer window. The move comes amid a significant financial boost following the confirmed sale of forward Brennan Johnson.
Spurs Launch Concrete Bid for Coveted Brazilian Talent
According to reports from Sport Witness, Tottenham have made a 'concrete move' for 19-year-old left-back Souza. The Santos prodigy, who made his senior debut in 2024 and has since amassed 38 appearances, is also a known target for Premier League rivals Chelsea and Italian giants AC Milan.
Brazilian journalist Lucas Musetti states that Spurs submitted an 'official proposal' in recent days, but it was rejected by the Série A club. The offer is believed to have been 'well below' Santos's firm valuation of €17m (approximately £14.8m). The player is under contract until 2028 and is considered a key part of head coach Juan Pablo Vojvoda's plans, with the club under no pressure to sell unless their asking price is met.
Financial Boost from Record Sale of Brennan Johnson
Tottenham's ability to pursue major January business received a substantial lift on Friday with the confirmation of Brennan Johnson's £35m transfer to Crystal Palace. The sale represents a club-record fee for the Eagles.
Johnson, who scored the winning goal in last season's Europa League final, saw his playing time diminish under Thomas Frank after being a key figure for Ange Postecoglou. The significant funds generated from his departure are expected to be reinvested into the squad, potentially allowing Spurs to return with an improved offer for Souza.
In a secondary squad move, young Japanese defender Kota Takai, who has yet to make an appearance since joining in July, has been loaned to Bundesliga side Borussia Monchengladbach for the rest of the season.
Frank Under Pressure to Improve Spurs' Form
The transfer activity unfolds against a backdrop of pressure on manager Thomas Frank. Tottenham currently sit 12th in the Premier League table and have managed just two league wins at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium all season.
While back-to-back clean sheets in London derbies against Crystal Palace and Frank's former club Brentford have provided a glimmer of hope, the Danish manager is aware that results must improve swiftly. The January window offers a critical opportunity to strengthen his options as he looks to steer the club away from the bottom half of the table.
Whether Tottenham will meet Santos's valuation for Souza, and fend off competition from Chelsea and Milan, remains a key storyline to watch as the winter market progresses.
