Spurs Face Overhaul: Nine-Man Core Identified as Relegation Battle Deepens

Tottenham's prospects have grown increasingly bleak on and off the pitch. Sitting just a point clear of the Premier League's drop zone with nine matches remaining, the club is already plotting a wholesale reconstruction of their playing staff.

New manager Igor Tudor's arrival to replace Thomas Frank has done little to reverse the club's fortunes. The Portuguese coach has lost all three of his opening matches, leaving Spurs without a league victory in 2026. A Champions League round of 16 first leg against Atletico Madrid awaits on Tuesday, before the Lilywhites travel to Anfield on Sunday.

Behind the scenes, however, significant planning is underway. According to The Telegraph, Tottenham have compiled a shortlist of just nine players deemed worthy of remaining at the club beyond the summer. The list includes defenders Micky van de Ven and Dejan Kulusevski, midfielder James Maddison, midfielders Xavi Simons and Mohammed Kudus, striker Dominic Solanke, midfielder Conor Gallagher, and academy prospects Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall. Kulusevski and Maddison are currently sidelined through injury.

Van de Ven, notably, has attracted external interest and could potentially depart, whilst three other "high-profile" players may be sacrificed if suitable offers materialise.

The blueprint for Tottenham's recruitment strategy has become clearer following their unsuccessful approach for Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson. The club intends to target "players in their mid-20s and over," viewing Robertson as emblematic of the experience, character, and leadership qualities they now seek. Robertson remains without a contract extension beyond this season, leaving the door open for a summer swoop.

The overhaul reflects acceptance within the boardroom that fundamental change is required—a shift towards proven maturity rather than the youth-focused approach that has characterised recent windows.