Aston Villa steal a march on Premier League rivals with a timely move concerning Brennan Johnson

Originally posted on To The Lane And Back
By Aaryan Choksi | Last updated Dec 24, 2025 8:52 AM ET

Brennan Johnson has not managed to feature regularly for Tottenham under Thomas Frank this season

Tottenham star Brennan Johnson has been unable to build on his impressive form this season under Thomas Frank. The Welshman etched his name into the club’s history books last term by playing a key role in the Lilywhites’ Europa League triumph. He finished the campaign as the club’s top-scorer, netting 18 goals in all competitions, including the decisive strike in the European final in May.

Many supporters expected the 24-year-old to carry that goal-scoring momentum into Frank’s first full season in charge, but that has not materialised. Despite his heroics last year, Johnson was swiftly replaced by Mohammed Kudus on the right flank during the summer. As a result, the Welshman has been forced to operate mainly from the left wing, a role he is still adjusting to.

It is clear that the attacker has slipped down the pecking order under Thomas Frank. He has been used sparingly by the Danish tactician despite the club’s attacking struggles this season. Both Wilson Odobert and Richarlison currently rank ahead of Johnson, suggesting that the 24-year-old’s long-term future may lie away from North London as the January window approaches.

Tottenham star Brennan Johnson may move to Aston Villa in the winter

Tottenham star Brennan Johnson has found it difficult to make an impact from the left wing this season. The Welshman has started just six of the club’s 17 Premier League matches, with Thomas Frank often preferring to deploy Wilson Odobert on that side instead. As a result, it is no surprise that the 24-year-old is open to a move as he looks to revive his career ahead of the World Cup play-offs next year.

Recent reports have linked Johnson with a potential move to Crystal Palace in the upcoming transfer window. The Eagles are eager to strengthen their attack as they aim to secure European qualification for a second consecutive season under Oliver Glasner. With Ismaila Sarr departing for AFCON, Palace are keen to bring in Johnson as a player who could make an immediate impact in the second half of the campaign.

However, completing a deal for the 24-year-old may not be straightforward for Palace. According to TEAMtalk, Aston Villa are also interested in securing the Welshman’s signature, seemingly stealing the march on Crystal Palace. The Villans are aware of Palace’s interest and are stepping up their efforts to sign Johnson in the coming weeks. The Birmingham-based club have reportedly made contact with his representatives, offering him the opportunity to feature regularly for a side pushing at the top end of the table.

Time to cash in?

Thomas Frank has recently suggested that he would like to retain Brennan Johnson as Spurs look to close the gap on their rivals and secure European qualification in the latter stages of the season. The Danish tactician believes the 24-year-old still has plenty to offer and could play an important role in helping the Lilywhites rediscover their Premier League form as the campaign progresses.

However, it may now be the right time for the North Londoners to cash in on Johnson. His market value remains high following his Europa League heroics last season, and recouping a significant portion of the fee paid for him would give Spurs greater flexibility in the transfer market. With the Welshman also keen to secure regular minutes ahead of the World Cup, a parting of ways could suit all parties in the coming weeks.

This article first appeared on To The Lane And Back and was syndicated with permission.

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