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Tottenham told what they are lacking in midfield; PL star unlikely to amend it
Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Alan Brazil believes the Tottenham Hotspur midfield lacks pace; unsure if Kobbie Mainoo can rectify it

Tottenham Hotspur have taken a keen interest in Manchester United starlet Kobbie Mainoo, as the 20-year-old’s contract saga at Old Trafford continues to drag on. With Thomas Frank keen to reshape the spine of his Spurs midfield ahead of the new season, Mainoo’s name has emerged on the radar but the situation is more complicated than it seems.

As things stand, Tottenham are closely monitoring the England international, who featured in 37 games last season for United but has yet to agree a new deal. Despite being under contract until 2027 with an option to extend until 2028, negotiations have stalled, and Spurs are watching with interest.

However, talkSPORT pundit Alan Brazil via Youtube believes a move to N17 might not solve Tottenham’s bigger midfield issues, at least not immediately.

“I’ve always said that Tottenham’s midfield is not good enough, they need more pace in there, so the jury is out here.”

While Brazil praised Mainoo’s talent, he was unsure whether the youngster would be the right solution for Tottenham’s current midfield problems, especially considering Spurs need pace, drive, and physical presence in the middle of the park.

That’s not to downplay Mainoo’s ability. He’s technically gifted, composed in possession, and already a full England international at just 20. But for a club chasing Champions League football and aiming to build on their recent Europa League success, Spurs need players who can dominate the middle of the pitch from day one.

“But he could be alright for Spurs. That’s a good one that is. I’m not sure, I’m going to sit on the fence on this.”

Tottenham fans have seen moments of brilliance from the current midfield core, but consistency and athleticism have been missing, especially in big games. With players like Yves Bissouma, Pape Matar Sarr, and Rodrigo Bentancur battling injuries or form dips, the need for a dynamic midfielder remains a pressing concern. While we continue to be linked strongly to Morgan Gibbs-White, Mainoo presents an intriguing option.

There’s no denying that Kobbie Mainoo is an elite prospect, and in a few years’ time, he could be one of the Premier League’s best. But right now, Spurs can’t afford to take a gamble on another developing player when the midfield demands a ready-made general.

Daniel Levy and Thomas Frank must be ruthless in this window. The aim is not just to build for the future, it’s to challenge now. Mainoo’s situation should be monitored, but unless United agree to a cut-price deal or the player forces a move, this may be one for a future window.

For now, Tottenham need to focus on signing a midfielder who brings power, pace, and presence, someone who can immediately raise the bar in the engine room and help Frank’s side push for silverware again. After all, if it is a project we are looking for, we already have Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall in our ranks.

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

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