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Tottenham Hotspur are on the verge of sealing a “statement” signing, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The north London outfit have been linked with a move for Sporting CP wing-back Pedro Porro for much of the January transfer window but with less than a week to go, they are running out of time to get him through the doors at Hotspur Way.

However, renowned transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has provided some encouragement on the situation, claiming that a move is “really close” to happening and that it could be “done” before the weekend.

Reports have suggested that the Primeira Liga giants are expecting the 23-year-old’s €45m (£40m) release clause to be paid in full, whilst Spurs announced the arrival of Arnaut Danjuma on Wednesday, joining on an initial loan from LaLiga side Villarreal.

O’Rourke has now told Football FanCast that Porro has been the no.1 target this month for quite some time and believes that the club are making a major move by signing him, he said:

“It’s a huge statement if they can get this deal over the line before the window closes next week.

“Pedro Porro has been Tottenham’s number one target for the right wing-back position.”

Indeed, it’s hard to disagree as it’s a role that probably keeps manager Antonio Conte up at night.

Just a few months into his reign as Nuno Espirito Snato’s successor, the Italian was regularly linked with new options for the right wing-back spot.

At the time Wolverhampton Wanderers powerhouse Adama Traore was one player who Spurs nearly signed, with The Times claiming that the 53-year-old was unconvinced by both Emerson Royal and Matt Doherty.

Fast forward a little over a year and the problem still remains, which is why Porro has emerged as a viable solution and some solution he is, having racked up an eye-watering 14 goal contributions across 25 matches this term.

It builds on last season’s returns of five goals and seven assists, and is far more than what the aforementioned Lilywhites duo have managed combined – Emerson (four G/A), Doherty (seven G/A) – since the start of the 2021/22 Premier League campaign.

That would make the “special talent” – as once described by journalist Zach Lowry – a monumental upgrade to an important position in Conte’s squad, heading into the second half of the campaign.

As such, Porro is certainly a ‘huge statement’ from the club and sporting director Fabio Paratici, just as O’Rourke has suggested.

AND in other news, SpurSpurs have “eye” on “dominant” £35m “prodigy” in summer, could be Conte’s next Bastoni…

Journalist Ben Jacobs has claimed that Chelsea will be in “dreamland” if they can pull off a shock double transfer swoop for Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo.

What’s the word?

As we approach the very final stages of the winter transfer window, it’s fair to say Todd Boehly has been a very busy man with key signings such as Mykhailo Mudryk, Benoit Badiashile, Joao Felix, Noni Madueke, Malo Gusto and others arriving at his club for big money.

However, with a little time left in January to go, the American may not be done just yet. Indeed, the Blues are pushing hard to sign Fernandez from Benfica. What’s more, Brighton’s Caicedo has also been a target and could be someone they swoop for too.

While speaking about all the exciting rumours on The Premier Chels, Jacobs resulted to rule out a move for both and said it would arguably be the club’s “greatest ever window”.

He said: “Todd Boehly has been ambitious, Todd Boehly’s spent a tonne of money, Todd Boehly has bought for the now and for the future.

“But to think in 48 hours, they are somehow going to pull off Enzo and Caicedo, would be dreamland.

“If they do it, they’ll have had the greatest ever window in the club’s history. Even if they get one, it won’t be far off the greatest window.”

Fantasy football

Money certainly doesn’t seem to be a problem for Boehly or Chelsea right now seeing as they have spent nearly £200m already this winter.

And the current negotiations with Fernandez – who has a release clause of €120m (£105.6m) – suggest they have even more cash to splash.

If they can get that deal with Benfica done, it might seem a little far-fetched that they would then go out and sign Caicedo too. However, the club’s poor Premier League form suggests something drastic needs to change for the club to salvage their season.

What’s more, manager Graham Potter has a past relationship with his former Brighton player, having coached him in 16 matches for the Seagulls.

Both Jorginho and N’Golo Kante will see their contracts expire in the summer and if Chelsea can fill those positions now it could solve a key issue long term.

With all that in mind, perhaps this “dreamland” isn’t too far away from reality.

Presenter and YouTuber Conor McGlligan has slammed ex-Leeds United manager Jesse Marsch for getting his players to watch a show on Netflix after their defeat this weekend.

The Lowdown: Leeds in turmoil; Marsch sacked

It’s safe to say that things are far from ideal at Elland Road at the moment with the Whites earning just two wins since domestic football resumed in December.

Both of those wins came in the FA Cup against Cardiff City and Accrington Stanley, whereas their league form has been atrocious – losing to the likes of Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa in recent weeks.

And Sunday’s defeat was indeed the final straw for the Leeds board, who dismissed Marsch less than a year after taking over from Marcelo Bielsa.

The Latest: Marsch’s desperate measures ridiculed

Marsch will have been looking for any way he can to get his players back on form and hitting the heights they did at the start of the season when they took points off the likes of Liverpool and Chelsea.

According to Phil Hay, Marsch asked his players to watch The Redeem Team, a story about the US Olympic basketball team from 2008 and their journey to the gold medal, and unsurprisingly, that doesn’t appear to have gone down too well, as McGilligan led the way with a simple reply to this revelation.

He said: “We are a comedy sketch. Embarrassing.”

The Verdict: Leeds looking for another boss

It appears that these efforts from the American have been in vain, as Leeds are now looking for another manager to save their flagging season.

It’s not as if Leeds are getting unlucky, as last time out against Forest, they failed to impose themselves on the game, managing to muster up a measly ratio of 0.8 expected goals against a fellow relegation rival.

Sending out film recommendations while fans were chanting for him to be sacked certainly suggests Marsch had the self-belief to continue trying to get his message across to the team, but Victor Orta will have felt enough is enough, and despite the ex-Leipzig boss masterminding a relegation escape act last season, the chairman could not take the risk of Marsch failing to repeat the trick – especially having ended a prolonged stint in the second tier just a few years ago.

While the effects of this particular attempt to kickstart Leeds’ season will now never be known, it certainly seems as if patience throughout the club and its fanbase had run out for Marsch.

Jack Harrison signing a new deal to extend his stay at Leeds United is a huge boost according to Pete O’Rourke.

What’s the word?

Harrison was the subject of transfer interest from Leicester City late in the window, but the deal never materialised.

He is now set to end all speculation and sign a new deal, which may provide some relief to Leeds fans concerned that he was to depart.

Speaking to GiveMeSport, O’Rourke claimed that keeping him will provide a boost, particularly as the 26-year-old would not have joined a relegation rival.

“I think it’s a massive boost,” he stated.

“You don’t want to lose any of your key players if you’re fighting in a relegation battle, which Leeds are right now, so to possibly see Jack Harrison go to a relegation rival in Leicester would have been a big blow to Leeds United.”

A surprising move?

According to Rob Dorsett, Harrison was set to complete a move to Leicester before Leeds decided to match their wage offer at the last minute, and ultimately turned down the £20m offer.

Given that Leeds now have a number of wide options including Luis Sinisterra, Wilfried Gnonto and new signing Georginio Rutter, Harrison may not be a starter at the club, and with his previous deal set to expire in 2024, £20m could have been a tempting fee for the club.

Harrison is a useful player for his workrate, ranking in the top 8% of attacking midfielders and wingers for tackles and interceptions as per FBref, but with just one goal in 17 games this season, he will need to increase his output or risk losing his place in the side.

Leeds United reportedly have former Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl as a contender to replace Jesse Marsch, according to The i’s Mark Douglas.

The Lowdown: Hasenhuttl profiled

Hasenhuttl, once labelled as an “exceptional” manager by Pep Guardiola, is currently out of work after leaving Southampton back in November.

The 55-year-old, previously of RB Leipzig, was in charge of 173 games at St Mary’s, averaging 1.26 points per game. The Austrian likes to play a 4-4-2 double 6 formation, and it seems as if he is of interest to Victor Orta and co.

The Latest: Leeds claim

Douglas shared a story for The i in the last 48 hours following Marsch’s dismissal at Elland Road.

He stated that Hasenhuttl is an early contender to take over in Yorkshire, with reports since stating that the available manager has actually turned down the chance to return to the Bundesliga with Hoffenheim.

The Verdict: Pros and cons…

Hasenhuttl would bring a wealth of Premier League experience to Leeds, something which could be crucial as the club look to avoid relegation once again.

However, on the flip side, the out-of-work manager struggled towards the end of his time with the Saints, losing six out of nine top-flight fixtures to leave Southampton in the drop zone before he was sacked, showing that a move could still be a gamble.

Therefore, in regards to the long-term project, it may well be wise to look elsewhere, with Rayo Vallecano’s Andoni Iraola and Feyenoord’s Arne Slot thought to be contenders for the vacancy at Elland Road after impressing for their respective clubs.

Newcastle United sporting director Dan Ashworth is believed to be interested in a potential summer deal for Napoli sensation Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, with the Georgian dynamo having enjoyed a remarkable last six months in Italy.

What’s the latest on Kvaratskhelia to Newcastle?

According to Football Insider, the Magpies are said to have identified the 22-year-old as a top target ahead of the summer transfer window, with the Tynesiders currently ‘shortlisting’ possible attacking options who could strengthen Eddie Howe’s squad.

However, the report does suggest that securing Champions League qualification could be a ‘critical factor’ in their hopes of landing the 19-cap wizard, with the forward having only arrived in Naples from Dinamo Batumi in a €10m (£9m) deal last July.

This comes amid previous claims made in December which stated that Ashworth and co are interested in the 6 foot speedster, albeit with the Serie A leaders likely to demand close to £100m for their sparkling asset.

Could Kvaratskhelia wreak ‘havoc’ at Newcastle?

That mammoth price tag has arguably been warranted as a result of Kvaratskhelia’s displays of late, with the fleet-footed winger having been a central part of Napoli’s title charge, scoring nine goals and providing 11 assists in the league already this season.

Affectionately named ‘Kvaradona’ – in homage to the late, great Diego Maradona – the former Rubin Kazan star also announced himself to the wider world with his displays during the Champions League group stage, with five goal involvements in as many outings.

The eye-catching talent was particularly impressive in the 4-1 thrashing of Liverpool last September, with Reds manager Jurgen Klopp having described Kvaratskhelia as “cheeky” as a result of his dynamism and directness in the final third.

In truth, it is the seemingly carefree manner in which the highly-coveted wide man has performed that has particularly caught the eye, with the 22-year-old earning notable praise earlier this season from New York Times correspondent Rory Smith.

He stated: “I genuinely haven’t enjoyed watching someone play football as much as I enjoy watching Khvicha Kvaratskhelia play football for years. He’s instinctive, untamed, anarchic and, most of all, he’s really, really good fun.”

The hope would be that the Tbilisi native could replicate such an impact at St James’ Park, having been lauded by Tottenham Hotspur insider John Wenham as a “complete menace” and a player who “causes havoc”.

Those traits are laid bare by the fact that the exciting talent ranks in the top 7% among those in his position in Europe’s top five leagues for progressive carries, as well as in the top 12% for successful take-ons, proving to be something of a nightmare for any opposition defender.

Being able to recruit such a ferocious and reliable attacking presence could prove a real game-changer for Howe’s side, with it set to be a real masterstroke if Kvaratskhelia can replicate his work in Italy by transforming Newcastle into title contenders, should the Magpies bring him to the Premier League.

Tottenham Hotspur have always had mixed success in the transfer window under the stewardship of chairman Daniel Levy.

The Spurs supremo has given up some control of footballing matters in recent years, having appointed former Juventus chief Fabio Paratici as his sporting director back in the summer of 2021, but a lot of his past decisions are still being felt today.

Levy hasn’t been afraid to splash the cash in the market, though it’s rarely paid off with former club-record signings Tanguy Ndombele and Giovani Lo Celso already out the door at Hotspur Way, despite costing a combined £110m in 2020.

Colombian centre-back Davinson Sanchez is one record acquisition that remains in north London, however. But how has he gotten on since his £42m move (as per The Guardian) from Ajax in August 2017?

How much is Davinson Sanchez worth?

Having cost a record fee at the time, the then-21-year-old was a key target for ex-manager Mauricio Pochettino, who waxed lyrical about his quality and potential upon his arrival.

“It’s a massive opportunity because we believe he will be one of the best centre-backs in the world in the future. That is why we made the effort to try to sign him,” he claimed.

Sanchez initially settled in pretty quickly, leading to further praise from the Argentine, having lauded his young colossus as “a beast” following a win over London rivals West Ham United.

But in more recent times, the now 26-year-old has struggled to cement his place in the starting lineup, with the Lilywhites going through the motions in the dugout, ever since the sacking of Pochettino.

Sanchez struggled to maintain a spot under the likes of Jose Mourinho, Nuno Espirito Santo and now Antonio Conte, even despite the latter deploying a favourable back-three system, meaning more places are up for grabs.

Even full-back Ben Davies has often gotten the nod over him.

Spurs’ no.6 has started only 40 top-flight matches since the start of the 2020/21 campaign, which is just two more appearances than a full Premier League calendar, which only goes to show how little he has been trusted.

The 6 foot 2 titan, who earns a reported £65k-per-week in north London, certainly has question marks over his ability at this level now, having been lambasted as a “liability” and as “reckless” by numerous pundits in the last 18 months alone.

His lack of game time and dubious form – when played – has led to an adverse effect on his overall transfer value, which is a worrying sign because he is supposed to be entering his prime as a central defender

According to FootballTransfers, the Colombian is now worth just €25.9m (£23m) – a 45% decrease on what Pochettino and Levy paid five-and-a-half years ago.

If anything, that price should have soared exponentially, considering the Argentine’s glowing endorsement, his touted potential and the trust from the chairman that such an amount would pay off.

It means that the £42m fee has been nothing short of a transfer disasterclass for the club, with Ndombele and Lo Celso further examples since then of past mistakes.

AND in other news, Not just Emerson: Spurs’ 72-touch “machine” was Stellini’s shining star vs West Ham…

Everton reporter for The Athletic, Patrick Boyland, says that Everton are ‘pressing ahead’ with their plans to give Alex Iwobi a new contract.

The Lowdown: Two deals close?

Journalist Paul Joyce reported for The Times that Jordan Pickford is close to signing a new deal at Goodison Park, later adding that there is no relegation clause and that it will run until 2027.

Sean Dyche confirmed the news in his pre-game press conference ahead of their match at home to Aston Villa in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon, while he added that Iwobi’s contract situation will be ‘looked at’.

Iwobi reportedly agreed terms on a new deal in December, but the contract has not been officially signed.

The Latest: Everton ‘pressing ahead’ with Iwobi

Taking to Twitter, Boyland has shared that the Merseyside club are ‘pressing ahead’ with their plans to tie Iwobi down too, after agreeing a new contract for Pickford:

“Told Jordan Pickford has agreed new contract with Everton & could formally put pen to paper this week. Credit @_pauljoyce for initial story.

“Club also pressing ahead with plans to secure Alex Iwobi on fresh terms.”

The Verdict: Another big boost

It would be another big boost for the Toffees should Iwobi put pen to paper on a new deal alongside Pickford.

The Nigeria international has played in nearly every single minute of Everton’s Premier League campaign so far this season, and has contributed one goal and seven assists in the division from midfield (Transfermarkt).

That makes him the highest assister in the squad, while he has also averaged more key passes and dribbles per game than any of his team-mates (WhoScored).

Nonetheless, Iwobi has proven himself to be a key player in the team, and so tying him down to a new long-term contract is vital.

Everton suffered their second defeat under Sean Dyche as Aston Villa prevailed 2-0 in a largely scrappy affair between two teams hungry for the three points.

The Toffees had the better chances in the first half but failed to convert, and it took a penalty from Ollie Watkins to break the deadlock before Emiliano Buendía sealed the victory with just under ten minutes to go. The result means that Everton slip back into the Premier League relegation zone.

Despite the defeat, there were some positives to take in terms of individual performances today. Dwight McNeil was impressive, receiving the second-highest Sofascore rating in the Toffees’ starting XI with 7.2/10 as he sought to create plenty of chances for team-mates.

The winger made four key passes, succeeded with seven of his eight dribbles and delivered 13 crosses into the opposition penalty area during the 90 minutes, but it was to no avail as Everton couldn’t find a goal.

However, it was Alex Iwobi who was arguably the finest player for Dyche’s team on the day, doing his bit for the team in spite of them shipping their 13th league defeat of the campaign.

How did Iwobi play against Aston Villa?

Firstly, he received the highest Sofascore rating of anyone in the Everton starting XI with 7.8/10, despite playing for just 70 minutes.

Secondly, the Nigerian midfielder offered a similar attacking threat to McNeil, albeit on the opposite flank. He played two key passes, delivered six crosses, took 41 touches and completed two of his three dribbles.

Everton’s new-found approach was praised by journalist Ben Grounds, who tweeted at half-time: “Encouraging so far after absorbing some early Villa pressure. Dyche is already building a clear identity, getting the ball wide to McNeil with Onana, Iwobi, and Doucoure flooding the box. Gueye doing a fine job screening the defence. Enough for fans to certainly get behind.”

Iwobi was constantly making runs into the Villa penalty box from his position wide on the right, and he wasn’t afraid to chip in defensively when required either.

The 26-year-old won four of his six ground duels while making two tackles and one clearance, although he did lose possession 12 times, which didn’t help Everton’s cause when it came to looking for a goal.

The Nigerian midfielder ranks as the club’s joint-fourth best player this season with an average Sofascore rating of 7/10 and he certainly showcased his abilities this afternoon, but it was just a pity that he couldn’t inspire his team to a vital three points.

West Ham United chiefs have identified Nice midfielder Khephren Thuram as possible replacement for Declan Rice, according to reports.

The Lowdown: Rice exit looming?

The England international has been heavily linked with a move away from West Ham this summer with his deal expiring in 2024.

This summer could represent one of the last opportunities for David Moyes’ side to make any serious cash off Rice’s signature and reports suggest he isn’t short of suitors.

Man City, Chelsea and Arsenal are among the Premier League clubs chasing a move for Rice and journalist Dean Jones has now shared who West Ham could target to replace their star.

The Latest: West Ham eye Thuram…

As per the reporter, writing for GiveMeSport, Irons chiefs appear to be making ‘early’ plans as they consider who could succeed Rice.

One name in the mix is Nice star Thuram, brother of Marcus Thuram, and West Ham have him on their radar ahead of this summer.

However, they could face competition from Borussia Dortmund for his signature.

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The Verdict: Right man?

The 6 foot 4 powerhouse midfielder has been one of Nice’s shining lights over the 2022/2023 Ligue 1 season.

As per WhoScored, Thuram ranks among the French top flight side’s best-performing players by average match rating and specifically in their top five.

Also just 21-years-old, the Frenchman would come to the London Stadium as a signing of real longevity with members of the media also being highly impressed by his displays this season.

AS reporter Andrés Onrubia Ramos, for instance, has called Thuram an ‘exciting’ component of the Nice midfield and, if he continues this form, could keep on earning real plaudits.

His stock is well and truly growing in France, leaving little surprise West Ham are taking note.