Parma’s midfield heartbeat has Tottenham watching closely amid growing interest

Originally posted on To The Lane And Back
By Rohan Sengupta | Last updated Jan 1, 2026 7:02 AM ET

Tottenham could raid Serie A to address a key position in Thomas Frank’s squad in January.

Tottenham Hotspur spent their money wisely on attacking talents in the summer, bringing in the likes of Mohammed Kudus, Xavi Simons and Randal Kolo Muani to strengthen their squad.

Despite the influx of attacking talents in the summer, the Thomas Frank-managed side have found it difficult to score goals with regularity. Thus, it isn’t surprising to see the Hotspur Way bosses working behind the scenes to add a new No.9.

In addition, the Lilywhites also need a tempo-controlling, tenacious central midfielder to partner Rodrigo Bentancur. Thomas Frank has decided to split the partnership of Rodrigo Bentancur and Joao Palhinha in recent weeks to try and find progression of the ball from central zone. Archie Gray has partnered Bentancur in the double pivot lately, and while it has led to the Tottenham backline lacking defensive cover, it’s made at least Frank’s intentions clear of what he wants to see from his midfield setup.

As far as Palhinha is concerned, even if the club decides to sign him permanently from Bayern Munich, it is worth noting that he is already 30 and will need replacing in a few years’ time. And it looks like the north Londoners have identified a player from Serie A.

Tottenham scouting Parma midfielder Mandela Keita

According to a report from Parma Today, Tottenham have been scouting Parma’s midfield engine Mandela Keita. They are watching him closely, although the Lilywhites aren’t the only Premier League club keen.

Tottenham scouts were present to watch Mandela Keita in action for Parma against Fiorentina last weekend. The 23-year-old won 100 per cent of his tackles and aerial duels, as Parma overcame Fiorentina 1-0 in Serie A. The Belgian clocked over 1100 minutes in Serie A, having featured in 30 games during the 2024/25 campaign.

Keita has started 13 of 14 Serie A games so far this season, and his performances have managed to catch the eye of Tottenham among several clubs. For Spurs, signing the Parma man should be an obvious decision. He is 23 and clearly has his best years ahead of him and, if utilised correctly, could address a key area of the pitch for the Lilywhites under Frank. The one-cap Belgium international would represent a clear upgrade on Yves Bissouma, who is out of contract in the summer.

With unnamed Premier League outfits also interested, Tottenham must start working on a potential deal for Keita if they feel he can make a difference to Frank’s squad.

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

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