In a surprising simulation of the upcoming January transfer window, Football Manager 2026 has forecast a series of bold moves for Tottenham Hotspur, including a shock loan departure for a key defender and a multi-million-pound signing from La Liga.
Incoming Transfers: Bolstering the Squad
The simulation suggests that Tottenham will secure a £13 million deal to bring Omar El Hilali from Espanyol to North London. The 22-year-old, a Spanish-born Moroccan international right-back, has spent his entire professional career with the La Liga side and is projected to be the club's most significant acquisition.
Further defensive reinforcements are predicted, with Napoli's Mathías Olivera also joining the squad. Looking to the future, Spurs are forecast to sign 18-year-old Mason Melia for £2 million from Irish club St Patrick’s Athletic. The Republic of Ireland Under-21 international is seen as a prospect for the years to come.
Outgoing Transfers: A Major Surprise Exit
The most startling prediction involves defender Djed Spence. Despite becoming a key player for Spurs, appearing in 11 of their 12 Premier League games and all five Champions League fixtures this season, the simulation has him departing on loan to Manchester United. This move would address United's need for defensive reinforcements but would represent a significant loss for Thomas Frank's side.
In other outgoing business, the simulation sees Ben Davies completing a £10 million permanent transfer to Juventus. Several younger players are also predicted to leave on loan for more experience: Tyrell Ashcroft to Tranmere Rovers and Callum Olusesi to Grimsby Town. Goalkeeper Brandon Austin is forecast to make a move to Bournemouth.
Context and Fan Expectations
These predictions come against a backdrop of an inconsistent 2025-26 season for Tottenham under new manager Thomas Frank. The team's recent form has been concerning, highlighted by a 5-3 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League and a 4-1 loss to Arsenal in the North London derby.
After 12 Premier League games, Spurs have amassed 18 points from five wins, three draws, and four defeats. With their home form particularly questionable, the January transfer window is seen as a critical opportunity to strengthen the squad. However, fans will likely be concerned that the Football Manager forecast does not include the signing of an established, impact forward, which many see as the squad's most pressing need.
It is crucial to remember that these are simulated predictions from Football Manager 2026 and not confirmed transfers. The actual business conducted by Tottenham Hotspur when the window opens may look entirely different.
