James Maddison's comeback from injury has sparked a debate on Tottenham's need for a new number 10. The England international returned to the pitch for Tottenham after nine months out, helping the team escape relegation.
What happened?
Tottenham struggled to create chances in the final third last season, partly due to the lack of presence of experienced players like Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison. Kulusevski injured his patella in May 2025 and missed the entire 2025/26 campaign.
Why it matters for James Maddison
Chris Waddle, a club icon, has backed the Lilywhites to sign a new creative midfielder in this transfer window, despite having James Maddison and Lucas Bergvall. Waddle feels the team requires more quality in the final third to unlock teams.
What comes next?
Tottenham are seeking reinforcements in the No.10 role, knowing that James Maddison cannot be relied upon to start games regularly. The team is exploring a move for AS Roma playmaker Matias Soule, who enjoyed a fruitful 2025/26 campaign with seven goals and eight assists in 42 appearances.
The North Londoners have already completed three signings, including Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi, as they look to fortify their backline. However, the team's priority now shifts to improving their options in the middle of the park.
James Maddison sustained an ACL rupture in a pre-season friendly against Newcastle United in August 2025. After his return, he was limited to cameo roles, but managed to make an impact to help Spurs escape relegation.
Tottenham must try to beat Borussia Dortmund and Aston Villa to Matias Soule's signature, with the Argentine valued at around €40 million. Soule's versatility and ability to operate in several attacking roles make him an attractive target for the Lilywhites.
The summer transfer window is shaping up to be one of the most significant revamps for Tottenham, with Roberto De Zerbi looking to strengthen his squad. The team conceded 57 goals in the Premier League last season, highlighting the need for improvements in the backline and midfield.
As the transfer window heats up, James Maddison's role in the team remains a topic of discussion. With his injury woes behind him, the England international will look to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.
Tottenham's search for a new number 10 continues, with Matias Soule emerging as a top target. The team's ability to unlock teams and create chances in the final third will be crucial in the upcoming season, and the signing of a creative midfielder could be the key to success.
The Lilywhites have begun planning to improve their options in the middle of the park, with Newcastle United star Sandro Tonali and West Ham's Mateus Fernandes also on their radar. The team's priority is to strengthen their squad and make a push for a top-four finish in the Premier League.
James Maddison's return to fitness is a welcome boost for Tottenham, but the team's need for a new number 10 remains a pressing concern. With the transfer window open, the Lilywhites will look to make significant signings to strengthen their squad and make a push for success in the upcoming season.