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A worrying behind the scenes claim has emerged surrounding Antonio Conte’s future at Tottenham Hotspur…

What’s the word?

According to ever-reliable football.london journalist Alasdair Gold, there are fears amongst the playing squad that the Italian could walk from the club if he’s not backed sufficiently in the transfer window this month.

‘It is understood that Conte has been extremely candid in his assessment of the club and his squad during multiple discussions with chairman Daniel Levy since he arrived, with plenty of home truths delivered publicly and privately about the level Spurs are at.

‘Now football.london understands that some of the Tottenham players fear Conte could walk next month if he is not backed with new signings to improve the squad during the remainder of this January transfer window,’ he wrote in a recent column.

Trouble in paradise?

This worrying bombshell from one of the most trustworthy when it comes to anything Spurs-related will surely leave many supporters around N17 absolutely furious as their midweek exit from the Carabao Cup was another reminder of just how poor this squad is.

It is true that the Lilywhites were missing some crucial players, such as Heung-min Son, Cristian Romero and Eric Dier, who would have all surely started if fit enough, but in their absence, the depth and backup options badly disappointed.

That has long been a problem at the club.

Conte very much needs to be backed financially if he’s to stand a chance at transforming Spurs, something he was brought in to do with an impressive CV that contains Premier League and FA Cup triumphs.

The fact that some noises suggest there are fears that he will not last in the job, on his own accord, is hugely concerning. Spurs would be set back ever so much if they lost a manager of his calibre and if his players – who are with him every day – are thinking that, then it’s rather telling.

“You’ve got Conte, give him what he needs. They need to strengthen. Give him what he needs,” claimed ex-midfielder Jamie Redknapp to Sky Sports (via the Daily Mail).

Many supporters have urged the club to back the Italian head coach this month and it now seems like a failure to do so will likely cause a big departure in the dugout. That would then be another devastating blow to the fanbase, so don’t be surprised if many are fuming by this major update.

AND in other news, Tanguy Ndombele could yet stay at Spurs amid reports…

Eddie Howe is reportedly lining up Tyrese Campbell as his first signing for Newcastle United.

The Lowdown: Up and running again

After a serious knee injury which kept him out at the start of the season, the 21-year-old is now up and running again for Stoke City, with his latest goal in their 2-0 win at QPR in midweek adding to his other strike against Peterborough United last month (Transfermarkt).

After his cameo against the Posh, his manager Michael O’Neill praised the youngster’s ‘brilliant’ work in the build-up and claimed that it was the first time that the Potters saw the ‘Tyrese of old’ (VAVEL).

Indeed, O’Neill cited how Campbell was ‘flying, scoring and assisting goals and terrorising defences’ last season before his injury, as he netted seven goals and provided a further eight assists in 19 games across all competitions (Transfermarkt).

Nonetheless, it looks as if the Stoke centre-forward is now a player in demand as the January transfer window draws nearer.

The Latest: Campbell lined up

As per The Sun, Howe is now lining up Campbell to be his and Newcastle’s first signing of the new Saudi era.

The former Burnley and Bournemouth manager is ‘ready’ to offer a fee of £20m to secure his signature in January, and has tracked him ever since his time with the Cherries.

Campbell, who is the son of former Everton and Arsenal striker Kevin Campbell, caught the eye of Howe because of his ‘pace and eye for goal’, and it looks as if the 44-year-old can finally get his man if the price is right.

The Verdict: Worth the risk?

Of course, with very little lengthy injury, it would certainly be a risk bringing Campbell to St. James’ Park. However, he has already shown that he can frighten defenders, and at just 21 years of age, he should only get better.

Given Howe’s long-term admiration for him, the Newcastle boss would also enjoy working with the striker and trying to get the best out of him, and Campbell have the added benefit of learning from Callum Wilson, the Magpies’ top scorer so far this season with six goals.

Nonetheless, given that they are in a relegation battle, they need to take risks, and Campbell is a calculated one which could well pay off.

In other news, NUFC have been dealt a ‘massive blow’ off the pitch

Leeds United correspondent Phil Hay has revealed that the club’s ‘intention’ is to act in the January window after the huge news of an injury to Kalvin Phillips.  

The Lowdown: Phillips’ surgery

Marcelo Bielsa’s squad has been impacted massively due to a number of injuries this season, with plenty of key players sidelined.

Phillips is one of the latest out after suffering a hamstring problem against Brentford earlier this month. Liam Cooper and Patrick Bamford also injured the same muscle in the 2-2 draw with the Bees, whereas Rodrigo is sidelined with a heel issue and Pascal Struijk with a foot problem.

News emerged on Monday that the holding midfielder has now had surgery to repair the issue but is expected to be out for at least two months as a result.

The Latest: Hay’s claim

Hay ran a Q&A on The Athletic prior to Leeds’ defeat to Manchester City on Tuesday.

He was asked for an update by one fan in regards to any January incomings, to which he said:

“The intention is there after the injury to Phillips. But it will depend on budget and available options. You know the drill.”

The Verdict: Good news…

A midfielder appears desperately needed at Elland Road following the injury to Phillips. Bielsa has just four midfielders on the books, two of which are injured after Jamie Shackleton hobbled off at the Etihad.

That leaves just Adam Forshaw and Mateusz Klich as his remaining options, although Stuart Dallas can provide cover when needed.

However, it is clear to see that the Whites would benefit from a midfield addition for the second half of the season, and it’s good to see that owner Andrea Radrizzani is ready to take action over the coming weeks, should the right deal appear.

In other news: Leeds now back in for summer target who is ‘like a beast’ – reliable journalist. 

Wolves are having a fantastic start to their season, with a win over West Ham putting them sixth in the Premier League ahead of Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester United.

One loan signing has consistently impressed in Bruno Lage’s side since joining in the summer, though.

What’s the talk?

Hwang joined Wolverhampton Wanderers on a season-long loan deal from RB Leipzig, and after an impressive start, the club are now keen to secure the South Korean star’s signature long term.

The loan deal has the option to sign the forward in a permanent contract with Wolves, for an absolute steal of £13 million from the Bundesliga side.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Express & Star journalist, Luke Hatfield, confirmed the intentions of the club when it comes to Hwang Hee-chan.

“I think they can still pull the deal off.

“The fact that he’s there now is obviously massively beneficial to Wolves’ chances.

“Given that he’s getting game time and enjoys the style of play, his team-mates, the training ground and management, it puts them in prime position to sign him on a permanent basis.”

Fans buzzing

Fans would surely be delighted if the South Korean arrives permanently in the Midlands because Hwang has been nothing short of an instant success story for the Premier League side. He’s grabbed four goals already this season, which has definitely played a part in the success Wolves are enjoying in the league so far.

The attacker’s goals scored so far have mostly been those that have won the game, with Hwang’s brace sealing Wolves’ first victory of the season against Watford.

Lage has previously sung the praises of the 25-year-old attacker, demonstrating how big his influence has been at Molineux.

“I think he has adapted to the Premier League. He is fit and fits our way to play because we need a player like him.

“Top players can enjoy our game and I think he is a top player like the other guys.”

The permanent signing of Hwang could be a blessing in disguise for Wolves, as speculation continues to build around Adama Traore’s contract and links with a move away from the club. Although the Spaniard departing would be a blow to Wolves, it could be softened by the signing of Hwang, someone who has got fans off their seats plenty of times this term.

Wolves will be hoping to continue their winning ways and pick up points at every opportunity in their Premier League campaign that could see the side secure European football if they can be consistent.

In other news: Daniel Podence puts on an attacking masterclass against West Ham

As per Football League World, Tottenham Hotspur managing director Fabio Paratici has seemingly pulled a U-turn over letting Jack Clarke move away after opting to keep him in the summer.

The Lowdown: Clarke struggles for chances…

It has been a spell to forget for the winger since Spurs chairman Daniel Levy elected to sign him on a permanent deal from Leeds United for an initial £10m fee.

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/spurs-developments-2/” title=”Spurs developments!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=”none”]

Clarke has seriously struggled for chances at Spurs, making just four senior appearances in over two years (Transfermarkt) and spending stints on loan at Leeds, QPR and Stoke City in that time.

As he continues his N17 limbo, some news has now emerged on his future at the club and what Tottenham are now set to do in January.

The Latest: Spurs set to greenlight Clarke loan exit…

As per Football League World, Tottenham and Paratici by extension are now ‘ready’ to send the 21-year-old out on loan, with the outcast ‘set’ for a January departure.

This comes as a plethora of Championship clubs, including Barnsley, Middlesbrough and Sheffield United, all eye a move for Clarke, with game-time at Spurs looking severely limited.

Paratici ‘took the option’ to hang on to the youngster during the summer window but, as he seemingly pulls a U-turn over his stance, he now sees January as ‘the right time to let him go’.

The Verdict: Correct move…

Clarke’s career at Spurs increasingly looks to be hanging on by a thread, leaving little wonder that the club believe a temporary January move is the best way forward.

Tottenham will need to start thinking about the player’s long-term future soon considering that his contract expires in 2023, giving Paratici just four more transfer windows to decide whether to stick or twist.

Clarke could even end up leaving on a free in two years’ time, a scenario that Spurs would be desperate to avoid, with a possible loan move this January seemingly crucial to raise his market value and find a suitor.

Barring that, it is difficult to see the former Whites sensation playing his way into Conte’s plans any time soon.

In other news: ‘Coming from Tottenham’…Journalist makes exciting transfer claim with big offer tabled, find out more here.

Rangers will look to extend their lead at the top of the Premiership as they travel to face St Mirren on Sunday.

Heading into the weekend, the Gers sat at the summit of the table on 20 points, whilst tomorrow’s opponent’s were seventh and have only lost two of their opening nine matches.

Steven Gerrard’s team come into the game off the back of a 2-0 win over Danish side Brondby in the Europa League on Thursday night, so will he make any changes to the starting XI? We believe that one player he should bring into the fold is central midfielder Scott Arfield.

The experienced Scottish-born Canadian impressed during his cameo off the bench on Thursday, recording a SofaScore rating of 7.00 in 12 minutes. As per SofaScore, he won both of his duels, made one tackle and one interception, and provided one key pass as well as hitting the post with a good effort on goal.

It is time to forget about Steven Davis starting against St Mirren and Gerrard to unleash Arfield in midfield for the Gers. We published an article explaining why the 36-year-old should be axed from the starting XI after his disappointing performance against Brondby.

Arfield is a proven performer for Rangers and could come in to give the Northern Irishman a rest. Last season, the 32-year-old averaged a SofaScore rating of 6.85 in 28 games as he chipped in with four goals and five assists in the Premiership

During the campaign, Gerrard lauded the midfielder for what he offers in and out of position in the middle of the park, which hints at what he could bring to the side this weekend against St Mirren.

The Gers boss said: “Scott epitomises what we want. Out of possession he shows grit, he shows fight, he’s there for you and in possession, he’s always available. He stands up to be counted at important times, so we’re extremely happy with Scott at the moment.”

This highlights why Gerrard must unleash the £16k-per-week beast on Sunday to show what he can do with a first league start of the season. It would allow an underperforming Davis to have a rest and focus on getting back to his best in training, whilst also throwing a bone to Arfield to see if he can stake a claim for a regular starting berth for the Gers.

AND in other news, Gerrard could unearth McGregor 2.0 in Rangers gem who has shown “excellent progress”…

Some Everton fans have been left buzzing as some international news emerged involving Richarlison.

As per The Athletic journalist Patrick Boyland, the former Watford ace has not been named in Brazil’s latest squad for their upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers, as he is not considered 100 per cent fit.

There is a desire to manage his fitness carefully, so that he can return to the squad fully firing in the continued absence of Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

Richarlison only just returned to the team in their 5-2 loss to Watford at Goodison Park (Transfermarkt).

Unfortunately for the Merseyside club, the games that he has missed have been detrimental ones, as they have lost two and drawn one of the four matches that he has missed in the Premier League, and went out of the Carabao Cup to EFL Championship side Queens Park Rangers (Transfermarkt).

It is clear just how important he is to Rafa Benitez, and him not going away on international duty allows him to work on his fitness, getting back to his very best for the Toffees while also avoiding any quarantining difficulties upon his return.

Everton fans on Richarlison international news

These Blues buzzed as the news was shared on Twitter, with one even going as far as to claim that it is ‘great’:

“Great news”

Credit: @THT1878

“Well done Rafa”

Credit: @FactsRafa

“A good sign that we can concentrate to getting him back to full fitness.”

Credit: @MacdoonJnr

“<taps noise> well in RB”

Credit: @NubiBlue

“We need him more than ever to save us from Rondon”

Credit: @richythepigeon

“Fantastic news, really glad the Eve/Brazil bond is so strong.”

Credit: @Ianfindmybrew

In other news, find out what team news before Wolves has Evertonians fuming here!

Many Arsenal fans have slammed the performance of Takehiro Tomiyasu in their 0-0 draw at Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday evening.

The Japan international endured a pretty torrid time up against Marc Cucurella in what was the firstgame where he has struggled since arriving from Bologna in the summer transfer window.

Tomiyasu lost out on five of his duels and also failed to block any shots or make any tackles, dribbles, key passes or crosses from right-back (Sofascore).

He also lost possession of the ball on 13 separate occasions in the match, the joint-fourth most of any of his teammates (Sofascore).

Nonetheless, with the international break coming up, Tomiyasu will now be able to take his mind away from the Gunners and then come back stronger when they face Crystal Palace at the Emirates Stadium in their next Premier League fixture on 18 October.

 Arsenal fans on Tomiyasu display

These Gooners on Twitter slammed the 22-year-old’s performance at the Amex Stadium, as one Arsenal supporter claimed that he was ‘exposed’ by Brighton:

“Tomiyasu was exposed today.”

Credit: @cuthie23

“Tierney, Tomiyasu, White were awful today. Gabriel was solid again. Tierney normally our best player but was poor today.”

Credit: @___13245

“Tomi worst game for Arsenal today. Had 3 brilliant games for his first 3 but was really poor today. Cucurella ripped him apart in the 1st half but he’s still young still adapting to the league. Let’s just hope its a one off and not a regular theme.”

Credit: @IREAFCreviews

“Tomiyasu had his WORST performance by far, Cucurella ran past him anytime he wanted.”

Credit: @_BurgessP

“Tomiyasu zero. Can’t defend and lost the ball every time he got it”

Credit: @JackyLanis

“Tomiyasu was dreadful, how did he lock up Son and then perform like that”

Credit: @rafifreeman

In other news, find out whose display against Burnley was slammed here!

Craig Hope has revealed where things currently stand with Newcastle United’s managerial pursuit of Paulo Fonseca.

What’s the story?

The Magpies finally reached the inevitable conclusion of seeing Steve Bruce leave the club on Wednesday morning, and attentions naturally have already turned towards who his replacement will be.

And, according to Hope, negotiations have already gotten underway with former AS Roma boss Fonseca.

He said: “Talks with Paulo Fonseca are “ongoing” & sources say he is interested in taking over at NUFC, but stress it is not a done deal. Discussions took place with Fonseca last week over numbers, but it still seems there are different opinions of who is next from within the consortium.”

Exciting news for Newcastle

After dragging it out for so long, Newcastle finally got rid of Bruce on Wednesday, and that has paved the way for the Magpies to fully embrace a new era under PIF.

While that in itself is exciting news, Fonseca’s name being linked with the job at St James’ Park, should be greeted with plenty of positive interest too – journalist Fabrizio Romano was quick to rave about him when he was previously linked with the vacant manager’s job at Spurs over the summer.

He said: “He is perfect in the dressing room and perfect in his relationship with the players, which is something really needed at Tottenham at the moment. He likes to play a 3-4-2-1 formation and likes to play with quality and fast players behind the striker, and so he and the club will try to convince Harry Kane to stay.

“But, let’s see. He’s experienced, he’s a good manager and he has great relationships with his players, so it could be something interesting. The dressing room was very good during his time there and he was already appreciated by fans.”

Getting the dressing room back on side and building a feel-good spirit behind-the-scenes at St James’ Park is exactly what’s needed, and Fonseca looks like he’s the kind of man-manager who can do just that.

Meanwhile, this Sky Sports journalist has delivered a huge manager update…

Former Premier League striker Nigel Jemson insists that his beloved Liverpool could make a move to sign Borussia Dortmund superstar Erling Haaland next summer.

The £117m-rated by Transfermarkt Norway international has emerged as perhaps one of the best strikers in the world since joining the Bundesliga club.

Haaland has made a total of 65 appearances for the club, scoring 65 goals and registering 19 assists, while he has also scored 12 goals in 15 caps for Norway.

This season, already, Haaland has been an electric presence, scoring eight goals in six games in all competitions and laying on four assists.

He is set to be at the centre of a major bidding war next summer, as his release clause will become active.

That stands at around £65m, and Jemson believes that Liverpool will do everything they can to bring him into the club, as he is the striker that Jurgen Klopp really wants.

Speaking to Football FanCast, he said: “I’ve just got a sneaky feeling that Haaland could be the one that Klopp really wants.”